Every mom has a story, and though your own struggles and triumphs as a mother may never be translated into film, there have surely been unforgettable moments in cinema that have mirrored your own journey as a mom.
Here are just some of those memorable movies in Pinoy cinema, which beautifully pay tribute to moms.
1. Anak
In this dramatic film, released in 2000, veteran actress Vilma Santos gives a stellar performance as the widowed OFW mom who worked hard in Hong Kong in order to provide a better life for her three kids at the expense of being away from them. On top of struggling with a difficult job overseas and a rebellious eldest daughter, she manages to make things work as a single mom and set her kids on the right path.
2. Wanted: Perfect Mother
This classic 1970 film, which was remade in 1996, tells the story of a widower who finds a companion and tutor for his three kids, in the process, despite challenges, she ends up winning their hearts and becoming part of their family.
3. Madrasta
Sharon Cuneta (Mariel) plays a stepmother in this 1996 movie with Christopher de Leon (Edward). The story revolves around how Mariel tries hard to win the affections of Edward’s three kids after their mom left them. This portrayed the perspective of a stepmother as the main protagonist, one that was rarely depicted in Pinoy movies at the time.
4. Foster Child
In this globally acclaimed film, Cherry Pie Picache (Thelma) plays a mom of two teens who takes on the challenge of caring for a 3-year-old foster child, despite struggling to make ends meet. In the process, she grows fond of the little boy and is heartbroken when she has to turn him over to his adoptive American parents. This movie celebrates the selflessness of mothers who, despite not having much, are willing to care for children as if they were her own.
5. In My Life
Vilma Santos yet again gives a memorable performance as the mother in this 2009 drama. In the film, she plays Shirley Templo a feisty mom of three, whose kids have gone abroad. She decides to move to New York City to be with her youngest and only son, who she later finds out is gay. This powerful film celebrates how mothers are willing to accept their kids for who they are, even if in some cases, they need a little bit of time.
6. Caregiver
This critically-acclaimed film celebrated moms as much as it celebrated hardworking Filipino caregivers overseas, who sacrifice so much for the love of their families. In the film, Sharon Cuneta plays Sarah, a grade school teacher who flies to London in search of a better life. She also longs to be reunited with her husband Teddy, played by John Estrada.
7. Ang Tanging Ina
It’s not just dramatic films that celebrate moms in Pinoy cinema, even comedic films such as this Ai-ai delas Alas box office hit can also tug at our heartstrings. In the film, Ai-ai plays Ina Montecillo, a mom of twelve (yes, you read that right) who has been widowed three times. Hilarity and heartwarming moments ensue as she struggles to provide the best life for her kids despite being overwhelmed.
8. Abakada…Ina
Released in 2001, this drama stars Lorna Tolentino, who plays Estrella, a market vendor with minimal education. The film revolves around Estrella’s struggles with a mean and overly critical mother-in-law, who believes she is incapable of raising her kids well.
9. Bata, Bata Pano Ka Ginawa?
Based on a Lualhati Bautista novel, this memorable coming-of-age film is also a celebration of working moms. Vilma Santos plays Lea, a hardworking mom who faces the struggle of balancing a career with caring for her family, all while her ex-husband tries to take their kids away from her.
10. A Mother’s Story
Beloved comedienne Pokwang takes on a more dramatic role in this 2011 independent film. It tells the story of Medy, who has an unemployed husband and two kids. She ends up becoming an illegal migrant worker in the United States in search of a better life. But her sacrifices and patience pays off, a true tribute to hardworking OFW moms.
READ: 8 Quotes from famous moms that perfectly encapsulate the beauty of motherhood
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