Strengthening Families through Playful Parenting: Masayang Pamilya Graduation held in Calbayog City

Playful parenting has the power to transform family dynamics and build stronger bonds between parents and children. This was proudly on display as the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF), in partnership with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of Calbayog City, Samar, hosted the graduation ceremony for the Masayang Pamilya (MaPa) Program last April 27, 2026, celebrating the program completion of participating families from Barangays Balud, West Awang, Obrero, and Pahayan.

The MaPa for Teens Program is an evidence-based parenting intervention that promotes playful parenting techniques to help reduce parenting stress, prevent child maltreatment, and strengthen family relationships to prevent adolescents from engaging in risky behaviors including early pregnancy. As part of the broader Barangay Expanded Youth Leadership and Governance Program (BEYLGP), MaPa contributes to building safer, healthier, and more supportive communities by strengthening family relationships and promoting positive parenting practices at the barangay level.

The graduation marked the culmination of nine meaningful sessions facilitated by the CSWDO MaPa Teen Hybrid Facilitators, composed of dedicated Registered Social Workers committed to strengthening Filipino families through positive and playful parenting approaches. Thirteen parent-and-child pairs completed the program through a hybrid learning format, consisting of three face-to-face sessions and six online sessions.

The final session emphasized the importance of nurturing healthy parent-child relationships, open communication, and creating safe and supportive home environments. Following the completion of the sessions, the graduation ceremony was held to recognize the commitment and active participation of all completers.

Showing strong local government support for the initiative, Calbayog City Mayor Raymund Uy personally expressed his commitment to reinforcing programs and activities that promote family welfare and child protection in the community. 

As the thirteen families return to their barangays as champions of playful parenting, their journey serves as a powerful blueprint for building resilient, joyful homes across Calbayog City. With continued support from local leaders and dedicated social workers, the MaPa Program proves that small, playful moments can create lasting legacies of love and connection.

Author: Mikee Ebias, ZFF EYLGP Provincial Associate Officer for Samar and Camarines Sur; Krizzia Esperanza, ZFF Corporate Communications Associate