The already sensitive and painful turn of events of the Magundayao Case—the international abduction of minors Gerard (7) and Laia (5) by their mother, Regina Magundayao Valdez—saw a ruthless development on Father's Day this June 15th in the Philippines. Like during Christmas and the minors' subsequent birthdays, Regina once again completely cut off the children's father, leaving him in silence on a day that should have celebrated the paternal love and care of dads everywhere.
A Father’s Rights Silenced
While families celebrated across the country, Gerard and Laia’s father faced a terrible nightmare: no messages, no greetings, and no video calls to virtually hug his children. Once again, their mother denied all communication, leaving him without contact for nine long months. Many people see this as a cruel and heartless act.
The Emotional Toll of Forced Separation
Father's Day embodies essential values such as love, protection, affection, and the constant presence of a father in his children's lives. Preventing communication on such a meaningful day when his efforts and role are supposed to be honored reflects a clear intention and is not just disrespectful; she aims to erase not only the legal right but also the emotional ties a father should have with his children. It is an emotional blow that sends an unequivocal message: "you don't exist to them,” that leaves an everlasting, painful mark.
Family Reactions
The father’s paternal family side expresses their indignation and pain with a firm voice: “We’re not dealing with a mother who cares for her children; we’re facing one who tears her family apart.” That, on a day meant for honoring fathers, this abducting mother chose to deliberately prevent all communication, not only exposes her disregard for the paternal bond that exists, but also constitutes a moral aggression against family values. It is a cruelty that doesn’t just deny a father’s right to be in touch with his children but also an act that takes away the personal dignity and hope of a father who, beyond borders, only longs to hear his children's voices.
This heartbreaking story raises a strong sense of anger and forces us to reflect that fighting for fatherhood is also about standing up for human dignity and the love that families deserve.