In September 2024, the Parenting for Lifelong Health (PLH), Philippines research team hosted a thought-provoking symposium at the 60th Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP) Convention in Baguio City. The session, “Investigating Parent-Child Relationships and their Implications for Parent Support Interventions in the Philippines,” spotlighted innovative research methodologies and findings to enhance parenting interventions in the Filipino context.
The symposium showcased four groundbreaking studies focused on expanding the reach and impact of the Masayang Pamilya para sa Batang Pilipino (MaPa) Programme, a low-cost intervention proven effective in promoting positive parenting, improving parent well-being, and reducing child maltreatment.
The presentations explored various aspects of parenting and child-rearing, shedding light on critical issues faced by families in diverse contexts. Dr. Liane Peña Alampay examined parent-infant interactions in low-income families, emphasizing cultural practices and the necessity of accessible, evidence-based parenting interventions for at-risk families, as revealed through focus group discussions with caregivers.
Bernice Vania Mamauag and Dominiq Ruth Reyes presented findings from a scoping review on adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) interventions, underscoring the need for parenting programs that include both male and female adolescents in low- and middle-income countries. Nina Capulong used a participatory photovoice method to document the challenges of teenage parents, fostering community discussions that could inform more tailored parenting initiatives.
Finally, Bianca Eloise Agbayani highlighted the role of fathers in child-rearing through quantitative data, demonstrating that greater paternal involvement can significantly reduce parenting stress and improve outcomes for children.
Participants lauded the symposium for its cultural relevance, innovative methodologies, and focus on under-researched topics like father involvement and ASRH. Attendees expressed interest in collaborations and further studies incorporating gender perspectives in ASRH research.
The research team is preparing manuscripts for publication, with outputs expected by mid-2025. These findings aim to inform policy and practice, furthering the development of inclusive, evidence-based parenting interventions in the Philippines.
