Many celebrity moms are now changing the way they celebrate Valentine’s Day, or the day of love.
Their main reasons: motherhood issues and the worsening traffic situation in Metro Manila.
“It used to be a romantic event, spent with the love of your life, whether dating or courting. Now with five kids, we have a hard time escaping,” broadcaster Christine Jacob-Sandejas said.
Christine Jacob-Sandejas
For actress Karel Marquez, having a family of her own meant a Valentine’s Day that celebrates “the love of family, not just husband and wife. So to me personally, it’s more meaningful.”
Former Kapamilya actress Melissa Ricks, who’s now a mother of one, shared how the day “changed totally” for her.
“I don’t go out on dates anymore, I don’t expect flowers. I just expect my daughter to wake me up in the morning, give me a hug,” she shared with Inquirer.
But for former “Pinoy Big Brother” housemate Say Alonzo, every day has become Valentine’s Day ever since she got married to her husband.
Say Alonzo
“My friends tell me we’re so cheesy!” she exclaimed.
The four ladies spoke with the Inquirer when they attended the recent launch of MenoBalance, a food supplement for women who need help in managing the effects of menopause.
They all agreed that V-Day still needs to be celebrated.
“It’s still special, but it has taken a different shape,” Christine said.
Karel argued: “Some people think it’s mushy, but it’s a celebration of love and a reminder that we love each other.”
Karel Marquez
Melissa echoed her sentiments, saying: “I may not have a significant other, but Valentine’s Day isn’t just about that, it’s about love for family.”
However, the four ladies warned the public about celebrating the occasion on the actual day.
“The traffic is terrible on Feb. 14, so you may want to celebrate some other day,” Say said.
Karel, for her part, said most of her celebrations have been “impromptu.”
Melissa Ricks
Always packed
“Sometimes, we try to book [a restaurant], but it’s always packed. So, what we do is celebrate it a few days before or after,” she said.
Melissa observed: “It’s stressful if you do it on the day itself. Everybody wants to get into that hype.”
Say said the best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is by showing your love every day of the year. “Like Christmas, you don’t have to be nice only on that day, we should also treat every day as Valentine’s Day and show our love all year round.”
Karel, for her part, said, “as long as you’re together, or the family is together, celebrating the love, that’s good enough.”
Melissa stressed: “It doesn’t take a special day to do it. To feel special, it doesn’t have to be on the 14th. Just be happy and enjoy life.”