Dennis Vicente, Je Vicente, Rita Duenas, Malou Pallarca, Jenny L, Lisa Pagkalinawan

“History will judge us by the difference we make in the everyday lives of children.” —Nelson Mandela

One of the many gifts of parenthood is being able to watch your children grow up into their own people. Over the years, I’ve seen each of my children journey into the unknown and discover parts of themselves and the world around them that have shaped them into mature, loving and kind human beings. I love spending time with them because they each have such distinct personalities that all blend together into a fun time.

My eldest, Bryan Prieto, was the first to give me the privilege of being a mother, and now he and his wife Tinkay have made me a Glamma! Bryan is not just a wonderful son, but also a fun and attentive parent to Louie and Naiara.

Tinkay Prieto, birthday girls Athena Prieto Valdes and Lia Veluz, Ysa Veluz

Their whole family brings me so much joy to be around, and I’m just ecstatic to watch Bryan and Tinkay navigate their own parental journey. Of course, I’ll be right there on the sidelines cheering them on, and ready to take the kiddos on shopping trips!

My son Tyrone has been a pillar of strength for me recently. It is so touching to witness how much of a good man he’s grown into, how open and compassionate he is to all those around him. He has been working with my mom in business, and I am so excited for all the great things he has in store.

I am also amazed by his dedication to health and sports, as he often meets up with friends to box or golf. I can’t wait to spend more with him on the green as we add another Prieto golf addict to the roster!

Cherish loved ones

Jordan Prieto-Valdes wearing Junior Varsity

Despite my daughter Jordan’s affinity for the “beach bum life,” as she calls it, she is truly growing into such a business-minded woman. She just launched Junior Varsity (@juniorvarsitysurf on Instagram), a sustainable surf wear line for women.

She has always had such a strong compass for her own morals and values, and it is great to see them reflected in her new business. The suits are made from recycled materials, and she also donates proceeds to ocean conservation as well as to support local Pinay surfers. She will also be opening a resto-bar in Siargao this summer, called Nãga (@naga.siargao on Instagram). I can’t wait to taste all their yummy Mediterranean-inspired dishes and cocktails.And last but not least, I am so proud of my youngest daughter Athena for finishing her final exams for the International Baccalaureate. She will soon be graduating high school and leaving the nest for a new life in the United Kingdom.

Seated: Aileen Lerma, Bess Howe, MJ Tavarez, Je Vicente; second row, standing: Abby Virola, Ginger Aglipay, Charlotte Benitez, Charina Mendoza, Chitty Cruz, Jenny L, Malou Pallarca, Dennis Vicente, Tess Talusan, Maan Sicam, Joyce Odulio, Leah Magallanes, Rita Duenas; third row: Golden Troilo, Bob Unson, Jojo Unson.

Now 18 years old, Athena will for sure rock the world and find herself a wonderful path. It is no doubt an exciting journey to be going on, but I am going to miss her so much when she leaves. Thankfully I still have my visa from our trip last year, so I can visit her as much as I want to!It is important to always reflect on the relationships we have in our lives so that we can better appreciate them and see them for what they truly are. Never take anyone or any moment for granted, because no one has any guarantee how life will unfold. I am grateful for my family, both immediate and extended, because we all shower each other with so much love and happiness.