RQ #1
THEMES THEMATIC STATEMENT
Challenges in Navigating difficulties,
Education Expenses particularly in the realm of
in Post-Pandemic our children’s education,
posed significant challenges
for us.
Our collective journey has
been one marked by a
multitude of experiences.
The echoes of stress linger
as we grapple with the
myriad concerns
surrounding education.
From the uncertainties of
the new normal to the
weight of academic
responsibilities, our
narratives post-pandemic
are intertwined with the
complexities of both
learning and emotional well-
being.
Upon returning to classes
after the pandemic, my
experience encompassed a
spectrum of emotions—joy,
pain, sorrow, and fear—
heightened by the fact that
my children are now in
college. This period of
transition highlighted the
complexity of human
feelings in the face of
change and uncertainty.
The lingering concerns
RESPONSES
IDI-01: Sus! Klase-klaseng
pagsulay jud among
naagian oy labaw na pag-
abot sa edukasyon sa
among mga anak.
(We went through various
challenges, especially in the
education of our children.)
IDI-02: Paghuman sa
pandemic? Daghan man
kaagi namo kay maapil pod
mi ug kastress ug naa silay
hunahunaon sa skwelahan.
(After the pandemic? We
have a lot of experiences
because we also get
stressed when they have
things to think about in
school.)
IDI-05: Ang akong na-
experience kay kalipay,
kasakit, kaguol, kahadlok,
ug unsa pa na diha pagbalik
sa klase homan atong
pandemic. Halos tanan lage
labaw na college akong mga
iso.
(What I experienced were
joy, pain, sorrow, fear, and
other things upon the return
to classes after the
pandemic. I felt almost
everything especially my
kids are in college.)
shared by my partner and
me reflect the ongoing
challenges of pot-pandemic
life, compounded by the
added complexity of our
children’s college education.
The aftermath of the
pandemic has brought forth
a shift in our fears from the
virus to the financial burden
of our children’s education.
Amidst these challenges,
we persevere, adapting to
newfound financial
strategies, even if it entails
seeking loans, in order to
ensure a better future for
our next generation.
The return to the physical
classroom after
experiencing online learning
was a welcome change for
me as a parent, as it
seemed to offer a more
effective learning
environment. However, this
positive shift was
accompanied by the
challenge of double
expenses, highlighting the
trade-off between enhanced
education and increased
financial burden.
FGD-02: Naguol mi ato sa
akong partner oy bisan pa
ug wala nay pandemic kay
lisud gihapon labaw na sa
pagkakaron duha sila
nagskwela sa college.
(Me and my partner we’re
both worried, even though
there’s no pandemic
anymore it’s still difficult
especially now that two of
my children are attending
college.)
FGD-04: Homan sa
pandemic nga nagpait man
gihapon mi. Wala na mi
nahadlok sa virus pero sa
gasto sa pagskwela sa mga
bata mi naluya pero anam-
anam ra man sad ug
pangita ug pamaagi bahala
ug maka utang-utang.
(After the pandemic we are
still struggling. We are no
longer afraid of the virus, but
the expenses for our
children’s education have
been a challenge. However,
we are slowly finding ways
to make ends meet, even if
it means resorting to loans.)
IDI-04: Kanang online baya
to sauna no? Mao to hasta
ako ginikanan nalipay kay
balik na sila sa aktwal nga
classroom jud ba ug makat-
on na gyud sila ug tarong
pero mao lage kay ang
gasto doble-doble pod.
(They’re online learning
before, right? That’s why I,
as a parent, was happy
because they’re finally back
to the actual classroom to
learn properly, but the

The expectation of a return
to normalcy after a period of
upheaval can often lead to
the realization that life's
trajectory is rarely a linear
path. In this journey, I've
encountered a myriad of
changes, both expected and
unforeseen, as well as
faced numerous challenges,
irrespective of whether I find
myself in moments of
comfort or adversity. These
experiences serve as
poignant reminders of the
dynamic nature of life and
the continuous growth it
demands.
Certainly, the most profound
source of happiness in my
life revolves around the
simple yet profoundly
meaningful moments
shared with my children. It's
in the early hours of the day
when the sun is just
beginning to rise, and I
witness the radiant
enthusiasm in their eyes as
they eagerly prepare for
school or delve into their
passionate projects. It's in
those precious moments
that I am privileged to
witness their unwavering
dedication to their studies, a
dedication that fills me with
immense pride and joy. Yet,
it doesn't stop there;
happiness continues to
unfold when the sun sets,
and we gather as a family.
Laughter becomes the
soundtrack of our evenings
as we exchange jokes and
funny stories.
expenses have also
doubled.)
IDI-03:` Pagbalik jud sa
normal nagtuo ko ug mao ra
gihapon ang dagan sa
among pamuyo pero dili
diay. Daghan ug nausab ug
daghan sad kog nasinati
nga mga hagit sa kinabuhi,
kaharuhay man o kaguol.
(When things returned to
normal, I thought that’s how
our life would continue, but it
turns out, it didn’t. Many
things have changed, and
I’ve also experienced many
challenges in life, whether in
times of comfort or
difficulty.)
IDI-05: Para sa akoa ang
happy moment’s nga akong
nasinatian kay ang kanang
aktibo nasad ang mga bata
nako nga mumata sa buntag
ba kay excited pirmente
muadto sa skwelahan o
kaha magbuhat ug project,
kanang dedikado gani sila
mangiskwela. Unya kanang
inig uli nila sa balay gikan
skwelahan kay
magstoryahanay mi sa mga
gipangbuhat nila mao nang
nahimo namo ug bonding.
Unya magstoryahanay ug
mga gara-gara. Kana lang.
(For me, the happy
moments I’ve experienced
are when my children are
active in the morning,
waking up excited to go to
school or work on a project,
seeing their dedication to
their studies. And when they
come home from school, we
have conversations about

The happiest moments in
my life are the ones where
my entire family comes
together, even if it's just for
a brief period. Whether it's
the joy of swimming in the
sea, the serenity of visiting
a river, or the excitement of
taking short trips, these
moments become even
more special, especially
when my children have a
break from school. It's
during these times that we
create precious memories
and strengthen the bonds
that make our family so
close-knit and dear to my
heart.
Genuine happiness
emanates from the sole
focus on family well-being
and the mutual joy that
comes from prioritizing each
other's happiness.
Happiness is derived from
witnessing the harmony of
my family, especially when
we come together to
cultivate both our bonds and
our garden.
The heart of our family
what they did. And we will
also tell jokes and funny
stories. That’s it.)
IDI-03: Happy moments?
Kanang kuan magbonding
mi tibuok pamilya bisan
gamay nga oras lang. Ligo-
ligo ug dagat, sapa, tapos
lag-laag sad gamay kay
tagsa ra mi magka-time
baya kay balik naman pod
klase sakong mga anak.
(Happy moments? Those
are when my whole family
bonds even for just a short
period of time. We go for a
swim in the sea, visit a river
and take a short trips
together whenever we find
the time, especially when
my kids are on break from
school.)
IDI-01: Malipay ra man jud
ko basta malipayon pod
akong pamilya. Kanang
wala mi lain hunahunaon
kundi among pamilya.
(I am truly happy as long as
my family is happy. We
don’t think about anything
else but our family.)
IDI-04: Kalipay nako ang
Makita akong pamilya nga
magtinabangay kanunay
bisan sa gamay nga butang.
Ug magkahiusa mi nga
mananom ug gulay ug
buwak.
(I find joy in seeing my
family collaborate, even in
small matters. And when we
work together to plant
vegetables and flowers.)
happiness lies in our shared
meals, where my husband,
children, and I come
together to share stories,
connect, and strengthen our
bonds. Additionally, as a
parent, there's no greater
joy than witnessing the
good health and happiness
of our children, for their
well-being is our utmost
source of happiness and
fulfillment.
Happiness blossoms in
shared laughter and
conversations during TV
time, alongside the deep
satisfaction of knowing
one's family is in good
health. It also radiates from
the achievement and pride
felt when a child succeeds,
a testament to the family's
collective support and
FGD-04: Kanang
magkatigom mi inig
mangaon kauban sa mga
anak nako ug akong bana
kay kana ra gyud nga
panahon magkastorya mi ug
maayo tibuok pamilya.
Malipay pod ko ug makita
nako nga himsog ug maayo
ra ang lawas sakong mga
bata kay isip usa ka
ginikanan syempre ikalipay
jud nato ug walay gipamati
atong anak.
(When we gather to eat
together with my children
and my husband, that’s the
time we share stories and
talk and bond as a whole
family. I’m also happy to see
that my children are healthy,
because as a parent, it
brings us great joy to see
our children feeling well and
happy.)
FGD-01: Bitaw tama gyud
iyang ingun.
(Indeed, what she said is
right.)
FGD-03: Parehas ra pod mi
ning-ana sad ko.
(We’re the same in that
regard, I feel that way too.)
FGD-05: Sama pod sa
giingun niya, usa pod sa
happy moment nako ang
kanang manan-aw mi ug
palabas sa TV unya
mangatawa mi magstorya
homan naa sakong
hunahuna ug kasingkasing
ang kalipay nga maayo ra
ang panglawas sa akong
tibuok pamilya. Usa pa pod
determination.
Continuing to cherish the
simple joys of shared
laughter over amusing
content, and the act of
coming together to dine out
and support students when
possible, fuels our ongoing
journey of creating
happiness as a family.
ka happy moment ang
katong nakapasar ug board
exam ang akong
kinamagwangan. Nalipay mi
kay nakaingun ko sakong
kaugalingon nga naa na
gyud mi napalampos.
(Just as she said, one of my
happy moments is when we
watch TV and laugh while
talking, with joy filling my
mind and heart, knowing
that the happiness in my
whole family’s health is
well. Another, happy
moment is when my older
child passed the board
exam. We were happy
because I told myself that
we have indeed make her
succeed.)
FGD-02: Giingun naman
nila tanan pero tinuod
parehas-parehas rami.
(Well, everyone says the
same thing, and yes in
reality we experience the
same.)
IDI-02: Daghan man
gihapon mi happy moments
na experience oy parehas
anang naa mi kataw-anan
makit-an sa TV o kaha sa
Facebook unya dungan mi
ug bahakhak sakong mga
dalaga o kaha sakong bana
mura nag maabot among
tingug sa pikas baryo. Unya
kanang mangaon mi sa
gawas ug naa mi extra
kwarta mamalit ug mga
kinahanglanon sa mga
studyante.
(We still have many happy
moments to experience, just

My children's education, a
treasured pursuit, was
abruptly halted due to our
inability to afford even the
basic sustenance of rice, let
alone transportation fares.
The sudden loss of income,
a consequence of my
partner's ailment, cast a
shadow of uncertainty over
our future. Yet, it was in
these dire circumstances
that a resilient spirit
emerged. Fueled by a
mother's unwavering
determination to shield her
children from the harsh
realities that had befallen
us, I embarked on a journey
to secure employment. This
decision, borne out of
necessity, symbolized not
only a response to adversity
but also a testament to the
enduring power of a
parent's love. It was a
reminder that even in the
face of overwhelming
challenges, the bonds of
family can ignite the spark
of resilience, inspiring us to
overcome adversity for the
sake of our loved ones.
The profound impact of my
sibling's passing remains
etched in my memory as an
like when we find something
amusing on TV and
Facebook, we all laugh
together, my daughters and
my husband, as if our voices
can reach the next village.
And when we have extra
budget we eat out and buy
things for the students.)
IDI-01: Nahugno jud ko
niadtong gasige ug ulan
buntag hangtud gabie kay
gibaha mi unya among
binuhi nga baboy ato
nalumos homan akong
partner wala pay trabaho
kay nasakit man kay kini
lageng edaran na pod. Mao
to sige ug ulan homan ang
mga bata pod dili makaadto
sa skwelahan kay wala man
mi bugas ug wala sad sila
pangpamasahe kay wala
lage income kay nasakit
ilang amahan mao na nga
didto ko nakadesisyon nga
mangita ko ug trabaho aron
makaalalay sa ilaha.
( I was so devastated when
it has heavy rain that rains
from morning until evening
because we were flooded,
and our pig was drowned.
Even my partner got sick
and couldn't work because it
was a recurring illness. So,
with constant rain, the kids
couldn't go to school
because we didn't have rice,
and they had no
transportation fare either
since we had no income due
to their father's illness.
That's why I decided to look
for a job to support them.)
IDI-02: Katong namatyan
kog igsuon maoy isa sa mga
panghitabo nga di nako
event of enduring
significance, not solely for
the irreplaceable loss of a
beloved relative, but also for
the multifaceted role he
played within our family. His
financial support, extending
to the provision of
transportation fare, daily
sustenance. His absence
created not just a financial
void but also an emotional
chasm, as my children
grappled with the disbelief
that their cherished relative,
who had been a
cornerstone of their lives,
had departed from our
world.
In the face of adversity, our
family stands as a
testament to the profound
depths of love and
commitment. It is a love that
transcends distance and
loneliness, fueled by the
unwavering belief that
education is the key to
unlocking brighter horizons
for our children. Our story
underscores the enduring
power of familial bonds and
the willingness to endure
hardships in pursuit of a
better tomorrow for those
we hold most dear.
malimtan kay isa siya sa
mitabang sa amoa labi na
sa pinansyal. Tagaan niya
ug pamasahe o kaha baon
iyang mga pag-umangkon
tapos palitan pod niya ug
mga sanina o kaha sapatos.
Makita sad nako nga luya
akong mga anak kay lage
dili katuo nga wala na ilang
uyoan nga suod kaayo nila.
(The loss of my sibling is
one of the events I will never
forget because he was one
of the person who helped
us, especially financially. He
provided transportation fare
or lunch for his nieces and
nephews, and even bought
those clothes and shoes. I
also saw how much my
children missed him
because they couldn't
believe that their beloved
relative was gone.)
IDI-03: Kanang maluoy ko
usahay sa akong mga anak
kay sige ra sila biyaan sa
ilang papa kay manarbaho
sa layo aron naa sila
pangtustus sa ilang
pagskwela kay lisod kaayo
ug magpundo radaw akong
partner diri dili daw kasigo
ang sahod. Antuson nalang
daw niya ang kamingaw sa
pamilya aron makahoman
ang mga anak.
(Sometimes, I feel sorry for
my children because they
are often left by their father,
who works far away to
provide for their education.
It's really challenging to
save money here, as my
partner's income is not
sufficient. He just endures

Through ups and downs of
our family's journey one of
the most challenging part is
providing for my children's
needs, especially during
trying times, weigh heavily
upon me as a parent. The
pain of not being able to
fulfill their requirements
resonates deeply, a
reminder of the
vulnerabilities that
accompany the role of
caregiver. Nevertheless, the
determination exhibited by
my children to pursue their
education, regardless of the
circumstances, renews my
commitment to do all that is
within my power to support
their dreams. Our story
serves as an emblem of
perseverance, highlighting
the intertwined elements of
sacrifice, hope, and the
transformative power of
education within the
intricate tapestry of family
life.
In the midst of a challenging
night spent tending to a
depressed child while also
caring for a young
elementary student, the
enduring commitment of a
parent to provide support
and reassurance in the face
of mental health struggles
becomes evident. This
the loneliness to support the
family and ensure our
children can continue their
studies.)
IDI-04: Naay mga adlaw nga
pait kaayo mi unya muingon
ko nga di sa nako
paskwelahon ang mga bata
kay walay pangpasahe pero
mupugos man gyud sila
sugot ra man pod ug
muadto sila ug skwelahan
nga walay kwartahay. Unya
kabalo baya jud ko nga
biskan ug wala kay buhaton
sa skwelahan maibog gyud
kas imung mga classmate
mag kaon-kaon. Maluoy ko
ba kanang di nako mahatag
usahay ilang
panginahanglan.
(There are days when we're
really struggling, and I'd say
I can't send the kids to
school because we don't
have money for
transportation. But they
would still insist and go to
school even without any
money. I know that even if
there's nothing for them to
do at school, they'd feel
envious of their classmates
who have something to eat.
It pains me when I can't
provide for their needs
sometimes.)
IDI-05: Panghitabo nga di
nako makalimtan kay katong
di ko makatarong ug tulog
kay magbantay ko sakong
anak isa nga na depress
kuno lage siya unya naa pa
gyud koy bata nga
elementary nga atimanonon
pod. Naguol ko uy unya
nabalaka kay dili man diay
memory serves as a
sorrowful reminder of the
thousands roles that
parenthood demands, from
caregiver to confidant, and
the unwavering devotion to
supporting our children
through their darkest hours.
It is a testament to the
profound love and strength
that can emerge in the face
of adversity, and a reminder
that, as parents, we
navigate not only the joys
but also the depths of our
children's emotional
landscapes.
The essence of parenthood
lies in unwavering sacrifice,
for it encompasses the
willingness to shoulder the
burdens of illness and the
obligations of work to
provide for our families,
firmly believing that
borrowing money is not an
issue as long as we commit
ourselves to find a way to
basta-basta ning depresyon
gyud. Nagtuo rakog akting-
akting ra bitaw niya mao
nang pirmente gyud nako
sila storya-storyahan kay
aron makabalo sila nga naa
rako pirmente magasuporta
nila.
(The event I can't forget is
when I couldn't sleep
because I was watching
over my child who was
apparently depressed, and I
also have a young
elementary student to take
care of. I felt sad and
worried because depression
is not something to be taken
lightly. I pretended as if
everything was okay, so I
always talked to them to let
them know that I'm here to
support them.)
FGD-01: Ay kanang magka-
utang-utang lisod gyud na
makalimtan na.
(Oh, when it comes to
debts, it's really hard to
forget it.)
FGD-05: Parehas ra pod mi
aning napuno mi ug utang.
(We're also in the same
boat, burdened with debt.)
FGD-03: Wa may kaso nang
utang kay makakita ra man
ta dayun ug pamaagi
makabayad. Ang pait gyud
ug kita ginikanan may
masakit kay unsaon nalang
atong mga estudyante.
Parehas atong nasakit ko,
pugos gihapon ug trabaho
kay ug dili mutrabaho wala
may kan-on. Sakripisyo
repay it, all driven by the
profound responsibility and
love that defines being a
parent.
"The journey of our lives is
often marked by
unexpected challenges, like
the heart-wrenching eviction
from our previous home due
to limited space. During that
time, my children's
education was jeopardized,
and we really struggle with
the uncertainty of finding
shelter. Yet, amidst these
trials, the kindness of a
stranger illuminated our
path, helping us relocate
our cherished belongings.
Gratitude fills my heart as
we have since found a new
place to call home, a
testament to the resilience
and compassion that can
emerge from life's most
trying moments."
In the wake of the
pandemic, the task of
gyud ta mga ginikanan.
(There's no issue with
borrowing money because
we can always find a way to
repay it. The difficult part of
being a parent is when, we
are the one who will be sick,
just like when I got sick, I
still go to work and do my
job as a parent, so that we
have something to put on
our table. As parents, we
should really sacrifice.)
FGD-04: Tinuod gyud kay
ako pod ning ana atong
nasakit ko.
(It's true because I also feel
the same way, I was just like
that when I got sick.)
FGD-02: Ako di sad ko
kalimot atong gipahawa mi
sa karaan namong balay
kay kini lageng yuta nga
gamay lalisan pa unya bag-
o pa nagbalik ang klase dili
ka pokus ang mga anak
nako sa skwela kay naglisud
mig pangita ug asa mi
mamuyo unya tabang napod
ug hakot sa gamit
pasalamat ra pod ko kay
naplastar nami.
(I also can't forget when we
were evicted from our old
house because the land was
small and class just
resumed, my children
couldn't focus on school
because we struggled to
find a place to live, and
someone helped us move
our belongings. I'm grateful
that we settled somewhere.)
IDI-01: Paghoman sa
pandemya syempre doble
supporting our children's kayod gyud kay aron
education has become even makatabang sa anak hilabi
more demanding, na nga face-to-face nasad
particularly with the return to sila.
in-person classes. This new
educational landscape (After the pandemic, of
necessitates a doubled course, requires double
commitment to ensuring our effort to support the
children's well-being and children, especially now that
academic progress, they are back to face-to-face
highlighting the evolving classes.)
challenges and
responsibilities that parents IDI-02: Karun kay kulang na
face in these uncertain ang tulog pirme kay sayo na
times. sa kadlawn mumata kay
mag-atiman sa mga
The evolving demands of studyante unya dugay
my role have reshaped my matulog sa gabie kay e-
daily routine, leading to a andam pa ang mga
significant reduction in kinahanglan sa panarbaho
sleep. Early mornings and pagka-ugma. Sauna nga
late nights have become the pandemic kay bahala na ug
norm, as I dedicate myself dugay makamata kay online
to caring for my students man sila ato maong di kayko
during the day and diligently makuan kay naa raman sila
preparing for the challenges diri sa balay.
of the following one.
Reflecting on the early days (Now, there's not enough
of the pandemic, when the sleep because I wake up
flexibility of remote learning early in the morning to take
allowed for different sleep care of the students, and I
patterns, underscores the sleep late at night because I
profound impact of shifting need to prepare for
educational landscapes on tomorrow's work. During the
the balance between work earlier days of the
and rest. pandemic, it didn't matter if I
woke up late because they
were just here at home,
studying online.)

Transitioning from online IDI-03: Kung sa una nga

activities to in-person
classes has shifted the pace
from leisurely to hectic, with
early mornings bustling as
everyone heads to school
and work, underscoring the
necessity of early wake-ups
to manage responsibilities
and maintain punctuality.
online ra tanan ang lihokon,
pati ang klase sa mga bata ,
aw relax ra kaayu unya
karon kay balik naman silag
face to face maong busy na
kaayu magkarakara na inig
ka buntag kay manlakaw
naman tanan sa skwelahan
unya ako sad sa trabaho

Reverting to pre-pandemic
routines demands parental
adaptation, as striking a
renewed equilibrium in time
allocation becomes crucial.
The contrast between
current circumstances and
the shared responsibilities
of lockdown underscores
the need for a fresh
approach to managing
household tasks and family
time.
With the return of regular
classes and the restoration
of normalcy, the importance
of prudent financial planning
comes to the forefront.
Escalating expenses in this
new environment, coupled
with the responsibilities of
supporting both college and
elementary students,
accentuate the
maong kinahanglan gyud
momata og sayo para ma
bahin ang trabahoun, unya
para sad nga dili mi ma late.
(If at first, everything was
done online, even the
children's classes, it used to
be very relaxing. But now
that they're back to face-to-
face, it's become very busy
in the morning because
everyone is off to school,
and I also have to go to
work. That's why we really
need to wake up early to
divide the workload and
ensure we're not late.)
IDI-04: Pagbalik na sa
normal magbalik na sad og
adjust isip usa ka ginikanan
kinahanglan gyud ang tama
nga pagbalanse sa imong
oras kay dili na man pareha
atung pandemic pa nga naa
ra mi tanan sa balay ang
mga trabahoun sa balay
matabangan man sa tanan.
(Upon returning to normal,
as a parent, you'll also need
to readjust and find the right
balance of your time
because it's not the same as
during the pandemic when
we were all at home, and
household tasks could be
managed by everyone.)
IDI-05: Pagbalik intawn
karon sa klase karon nga
nibalik nag normal murag
nagkinahanglan na sad ang
tama nga pag budget ba kay
nagkamahal man tanan ang
mga palitunon unya duha
gud na akong college, unya
naa pay elementary maong
ang tama nga pagbudget
indispensability of effective
budget management.
The return of classes has
brought relief as the
reduction in troublemakers
at home eases the constant
worry of their nagging. This
experience underscores the
transformative power of
education not only in terms
of academic learning but
also in shaping the
dynamics and atmosphere
of the household,
contributing to an improved
quality of life for everyone
involved.
The resumption of classes
has brought me immense
gratitude, as it has shifted
the focus away from their
constant cellphone use at
home and the frustration of
having to repeatedly
request their attention due
to their supposed online
classes.
jud.
(Now that classes have
resumed and things are
back to normal, it seems
that proper budgeting is
necessary because the cost
of everything has increased,
and I have two college
students, plus an
elementary student, so
budgeting is essential.)
FGD-02: Nalipay kog dako
uy nga nibalik na ang klase
kay murag ma minus-
minusan na ang akong mga
badlungon sa balay wa
nakoy kasab an nga mag
sigeg lag kay tua naman sa
skwelahan.
(I'm really happy that
classes have resumed
because it seems like my
troublemakers at home have
decreased, and I no longer
have to worry about them
constantly nagging since
they're in school.)
FGD-03: Suss mao, tama
gyud na pasalamat kog
dako nga nibalik na ang
klase kay sa balay, mag
sige nalang man og inatung
sa cellphone dili naman
masugo unya mag duha-
duha sad kog sugo kay
klase lage daw nila naa sa
cellphone.
(Exactly, that's why I'm
really grateful that classes
have resumed. At home,
they would just keep using
their cellphones, and they
wouldn't listen when I tell
them to do something. I
even had to repeat myself

This situation underscores
the resilience required to
endure unforeseen
changes, adapt to shifting
circumstances, and
continue moving forward.
While the financial burden
may be a source of stress, it
also serves as a testament
to our determination to
provide the best possible
opportunities for their
education. In the face of
such challenges, we
reaffirm our commitment to
their well-being and growth,
recognizing that these
difficulties are part of the
journey towards a better
future for them.
In the face of rising
expenses and the
increasing cost of groceries,
the importance of waking up
early to manage one's
budget and financial stability
becomes evident.
Family bonding dynamics
have shifted since the
pandemic, with increased
opportunities for quality time
and conversation due to
more time spent together at
home. This shift shows the
importance of adaptability in
our family connection. While
the circumstances may
have changed, the essence
of bonding remains a vital
component of our lives. It
challenges us to find ways
twice because they're
always focused on their
phones, claiming they're
attending classes.)
FGD-01: Mao lage okay ra
sad nang naa unta sila sa
balay bahalag dili masugo
basta kay dili lang pareha
karon ba nga mas nidako
ang gastuhonon. Pero kay
mao naman gyud ni sige
nalang.
(That's true, it would have
been fine if they were at
home, even if they weren't
following instructions, as
long as the expenses didn't
increase as much as they
do now. But this is how
things are, so we just have
to keep going.)
FGD-05: Pero mao lage
kinahanglan na man sad
mag mata og sayo, unya
ang mga palitunon intawn
mahal na kaayu pati ang
mga plite.
(But then again, you really
need to wake up early, and
the expenses have become
quite high, including the
prices of groceries.)
IDI-01: Siguro ang paghatag
na sad og time para sa
bonding namo mag pamilya,
dili parehas atung pandemic
pa ba nga mas daghan mig
oras nga mag storyahanay
kay lage naa raman sulod
sa balay.
(Perhaps giving time for
family bonding is different
now compared to when the
pandemic was still ongoing,
as we had more time to chat
to nurture our relationships,
even in the face of busier
schedules and external
distractions.
Balancing family life
becomes a juggling act as
our children grow, their
schedules change, and
work commitments shift,
ultimately challenging our
ability to share those
precious moments together
as we once did. This
juncture signifies a
transformation in the way
we experience
togetherness, requiring
adaptability and creativity to
maintain the essence of
familial connection amidst
these changing
circumstances.
The post-pandemic reality
has ushered in a
challenging routine for me
and my family. With the
dawn of each morning, we
find ourselves making
collective sacrifices, waking
up at the crack of dawn to
accommodate the demands
of work and school. This
shared commitment to early
rising underscores our
dedication to each other's
success and well-being,
reflecting the resilience and
unity that has emerged from
the unique challenges of
this new era.
The demanding rhythm of
my work life, characterized
by early departures and late IDI-04: Lisod gyud para sa
returns due to transportation akoa no kay sa trabaho
constraints, presents an kinahanglan ko mo sayu,
since we were mostly at
home.)
IDI-02: Isip usa ka ginikanan
karon ang paghatag og oras
para sa pamilya ang murag
lisod para sa akoa kay
akong college na unya
usahay gabie na mouli,
unya iyang papa gabie ang
duty maong dili na pareha
sa un aba nga makasabay
gyud mi og kaon, while
nagstoryahanay.
(As a parent now, finding
time for family can be
challenging for me because
my child is in college, and
sometimes, they come
home late. Also, their father
has night duty, so it's not
like before when we could
all eat together while
talking.)
IDI-03: Karon nga post
pandemic na lisod kaayu
para sa akoa uy kay inig ka
buntag kinahanglan kaayu
magmata og sayo kay ako
mo trabaho unya ang mga
bata mo skwela, maong
para dilimi ma late tanan
sakripisyo gyud ta ani og
mata og kadlawn.
(Now that it's post-
pandemic, it's really tough
for me, you know? Because
in the morning, I have to
wake up very early for work,
and the kids have to go to
school, so we all make
sacrifices by getting up early
like this.)
alarming challenge. This
situation leaves me with
limited availability to fulfill
my parental responsibilities,
including the care of my
children and assisting them
with their academic
pursuits. In the delicate
balance between
professional commitments
and familial duties, I find
myself grappling with the
poignant realization of time
slipping through my fingers,
making the pursuit of a
harmonious work-life
integration all the more
paramount.
The journey of parenthood
is marked by a multitude of
challenges, and perhaps
one of the most formidable
among them is the quest for
balance. This encompasses
the delicate art of carving
out time not only for
nurturing the bonds with our
families but also for
nurturing the relationship
with our partners and,
crucially, for self-care.
Parenting is a complex
journey marked by
challenges that require both
sacrifice and a profound
well of understanding and
patience. The delicate
balance between
professional responsibilities
and the care of our children
necessitates sacrifices, as
we navigate the intricate
dance of daily life. It
underscores the vital role of
empathy and resilience,
unya inig ka gabie sad
dugay maka uli kay
maghulat pakog sakyanan
unya wala na intawn koy
time para maka atiman sa
akong mga anak,
makatabang sa ilahang mga
assignment.
(It's really difficult for me,
you know, because I need
to leave early for work, and
then in the evening, I also
come home late because I
have to wait for a ride. So, I
don't have time to take care
of my children or help them
with their assignments.)
IDI-05: Ay kung mga kalisod
lang ang storyahan daghan
kaayu ang mga kalisod
namo mga ginikanan uy isa
na gyud draa ang paghatag
og oras para sa imong
pamilya, para sa imong
partner og labi na gyud para
sa imong sarili.
(Oh, if we're going to talk
about difficulties, there are
so many challenges for us
parents, you know. One of
the toughest is finding time
for your family, for your
partner, and especially for
yourself.)
FGD-05: Lisod gyud lage
kaayu ning ginikanan ta kay
kinahanglan og sakripisyo
kay naa pay mga butang
nga atimanonon nimo sa
imong trabaho, unya mag
atiman pakas imong mga
anak kinahanglan gyud
intawn og taas kaayu nga
pagsabot og taas nga
pasensya.
serving as pillars upon
which the foundations of
effective parenting are built.
The realm of parenthood
unfolds as a landscape of
challenges, where the art of
balancing time and financial
resources emerges as a
critical endeavor. Many
parents, in the pursuit of
nurturing their families,
grapple with the intricate
task of managing time
wisely while also navigating
the sometimes burdensome
maze of daily expenses. It's
within this delicate
equilibrium that the essence
of parenthood's trials and
triumphs is profoundly
etched.
The transition from leisurely
late afternoons to late-night
preparations for the day
ahead reflects a profound
shift in priorities and
responsibilities. While the
commitment to preparing for
the future is commendable,
it comes at the cost of
personal rest and
relaxation. This
transformation underlines
the often exhausting nature
of adapting to new routines
and the evolving demands
of life.
The pandemic forced us to
prioritize our family and
ourselves, leading to closer
bonds and shared
moments, but as life returns
(It's really challenging to us
parents or being a parent
because you need to make
sacrifices since there are
things you need to take care
of in your work, and you
also need a very deep
understanding and a lot of
patience in taking care of
your children.)
FGD-04: Ay daghan kaayu
mig mga kalisod gi atubang
mga ginikanan uy, isa na
gyud draa ang tama nga
pagbalanse nimo sa imong
oras unya pagbalanse pa
gyud sa pang adlaw-adlaw
nga gastuhon.
(Oh, many of us parents
face a lot of difficulties, one
of which is properly
balancing your time and
also balancing the daily
expenses.)
FGD-01: Mao gyud lage sa
una nga mosugot ra man og
udto na kaayu mang mata,
unya magabie dugay
matulog kay motan aw
pakog tv pero karon
magdugay gihapon og tullog
kay para mag andam para
ugma sa sayu sa buntag.
Kapoy gyud intawn kaayu.
(That's true, before, I used
to just have a very late
lunch, stay up watching TV,
but now, I still stay up late
but to prepare for tomorrow
morning. And it is really
tiring.)
IDI-01: Katung pandemic pa
man gud kay mas matagaan
nakog pagtagad akong
sarili,akong partner og
akong mga anak, sa una
to normal, the demands of
face-to-face classes
threaten to pull us apart
once again.
The loss of quality family
time is evident as our busy
lives today prevent us from
enjoying cherished activities
like farm visits, cooking
together, and sharing
meals, a stark contrast to
the past when these
experiences were abundant.
The evolving dynamics
between parents and
children reflect a shift away
from shared laughter,
collaborative projects like
gardening, and passing
down skills such as sewing,
underscoring the changes in
our interactions and
priorities over time.
mag video-video pana
akong anak uy unya apilon
mi ba kanang sa tiktok bana
sya karon kay face to face
na man aw usahay nlang
gyud kaayu mi magka time.
(During the pandemic, it was
actually a good thing
because I could give more
attention to myself, my
partner, and my children.
Before, my child used to
make videos, and we would
join in on TikTok together.
But now, since classes are
already face-to-face, my
family, sometimes don't
have much time for that
anymore.)
IDI-02: Dili na gyud pareha
sa una nga mas daghan og
oras para sa pamilya, kami
gud sa una kay magsabay
mi mangadto sa bukid
mangahoy, mang gulay
baron unya akong
pinakanamiss gyud kanang
magsabay mig kaon ba.
(It's not the same as before
when we had more time for
family. Back then, we used
to go to the farm, to gather
firewood, pick vegetables,
and what I really miss the
most is eating together.)
IDI-03: Na usab gyud ang
connection namo sa akong
mga anak dili na pareha sa
una nga naa pami time nga
mag kinataw anay pag mag
sige mig joke, unya usahay
magkasinabot mi nga mag
garden-garden baron unya
ako usahay tudloan nako
ning dalaga nako
nga ,manahi ana gud.

The hurried mornings and
the loss of shared
breakfasts signify a
significant change in our
family routine, as work and
school commitments now
take precedence,
diminishing the time we
once spent together.
The shift back to face-to-
face classes has brought
about changes as it grants
students more time for
school-related endeavors,
including projects and
socializing with friends,
altering their priorities and
daily routines.
(Our connection with my
children has also changed.
It's not like before when we
had time to laugh and tell
jokes together, and
sometimes we would agree
to make a garden together. I
would also occasionally
teach my daughter how to
sew.)
IDI-04: Oo naa gyuy na
usab, kay sa una nga inig ka
buntag tabangay man mi sa
trabaho unya magsabay mig
pamahaw karon nga mag
iyahay na man mig lakaw
kay ako trabaho unya akong
mga nak skwela, so ang
time namo para sa pamilya
nawala na.
(Yes, there has been a
change because before, in
the morning, we used to
help each other with work
and have breakfast
together. But now, we have
to hurry to leave because I
have work, and my children
have school, so our family
time is gone.)
IDI-05: Naa gyuy na usab
karon ba nga nagbalik nag
face to face kay mas
daghan na man silag time
para sa ilang mga himounon
sa skwelahan pareha anang
ilang mga project mas
daghan silag time para sa
ilang mga barkada.
(There's a change, now,
with the return to face-to-
face classes, they have
more time for their school
activities, like their projects,
and more time to spend with

A noticeable transformation
has occurred, where the
tradition of sharing meals
and watching TV together
has given way to a more
individualistic approach,
highlighting the changing
dynamics within the family
unit.
The demands of early
morning classes have led to kay naa man siyay sayo nga
a shift in our breakfast
routine, with my daughter's
haste to avoid lateness
overshadowing our previous nga dili ma late.
shared breakfasts, reflecting
the impact of changing
schedules on our family
interactions.
The pandemic brought our
family closer together, but
with the return to regular
routines, each morning now
sees us heading in separate
directions, marking a
notable change in our daily
dynamics.
their friends.)
FGD-04: Naa gyuy na usab
uy kung sa una permi
magsabay og kaon,unya
inig human manan aw og tv
karon inatwn nga dili na
man iyahay na.
(There's been a change
indeed. In the past, we
always ate together and
watched TV afterward, but
now, it's different as
everyone tends to do their
own thing.)
FGD-03: Tama gyud usahay
pa gyud ning akong dalaga
klase inig ka buntag dili na
pa gyud ko paminawon nga
mamahaw kay lage nagdali
(That's true, sometimes my
daughter is really in a hurry
because she has an early
class in the morning. I can't
convince her to have
breakfast with me anymore
because she's always
rushing to avoid being late.)
FGD-02: Ay oo uy kung sa
una nga pandemic pa close
pa kaayu mi,karon mag
iyahay nag lakaw inig ka
buntag uy.
(Oh yes, that's right. Before,
during the pandemic, we
used to be really close, but
now everyone morning,
everyone goes their own
way.)
The theme in these
responses revolves around
the financial worries and
economic disparities faced
by parents. They are
burdened by the
unpredictability of daily
expenses for their children.
Additionally, the expense of
school supplies further
strains their budget. The
parents are grappling with
the harsh reality of
escalating costs across the
board, as most commodities
have become more
expensive. Paradoxically,
this financial struggle is
compounded by the
exceptionally low price of
copra per kilogram,
highlighting the complex
and challenging financial
landscape they navigate.
In the face of rising costs
and limited income as
farmers, parents strive to
provide for their children
while instilling an
understanding of the
challenges inherent in their
way of life.
IDI-01: Isa gyud sa
problema namo mga
ginikanan kay kining baon
paras mga bata adlaw-
adlaw unya lahi pa ng
pamasahe ha unya lahi pa
gyud ng ilang amutan sa
skwelahan, isa pa gyud
halos tanan palitonon
nagkamahal unya ang kilo
sa kopras barato kaayu.
(One of our parents' main
concerns is that the daily
allowance for the children
and the transportation
expenses are both different
every day, and their school
supplies are also quite
costly. Moreover, almost all
commodities have become
expensive, and the price of
copra per kilogram is very
cheap.)
IDI-02: Isip usa ka ginikanan
problema gyud kaayu ning
financial uy kay tanan
palitonon ba nagtaas unya
kami nga mag uuma og
kami mamaligya sa among
mga abot sa uma barato
kaayu, unya unsaon mana
namo pag sustento kanunay
sa among anak, pero may
nlang gane kay makasabot
ra sad silas kalisod sa
panahaon og sa
panginabuhi ba.
(As parents, this financial
situation is indeed a
significant concern because
the prices of everything
keep rising, and we, as
farmers and sellers of our

As parents, the ongoing
financial worry revolves
around the multitude of
expenses encompassing
daily allowances,
transportation, mobile
phone load, utility bills, and
the rising costs of basic
necessities, all while striving
to provide for their children's
needs.
Navigating financial
challenges becomes
particularly daunting in a
world where expenses
constantly rise, even when
essentials like school tuition
are covered, due to the
presence of additional costs
and necessary purchases.
farm produce, have low
income. We're trying to
figure out how to
consistently support our
children, but they also
understand the difficulties of
these times and our way of
life.)
IDI-03: Kini gyung financial
problema gyud namo ni
kanunay nga mga ginikanan
kay daghan baya kaayung
mga bayranan unya naa pay
pang adlaw-adlaw nila nga
baon,pamasahe pa gyud
ana nila unya usahay
managayo pag pang load,
naa pa gyuy mga bill sa
tubig, sa kuryente, mahal pa
gyud kaayu ang bugas og
panud-an paita gyud lage.
(This financial issue is really
a constant concern for us as
parents because there are
so many expenses to cover.
They have daily allowances,
transportation costs, and
sometimes they ask for
mobile phone load. On top
of that, we have water and
electricity bills, and the price
of rice and other basic
necessities is also quite
high.)
IDI-04: Lisod kaayu uy basta
mag storya na tag financial
kay taga lingi nimos palibot
ba mahal kaayu tanan
palitunon, maayu nlang
gane kay libre ang tution
draa sa skwelahan, pero
bisan poag libre naa pa mn
gyud nay mga extra ng
bayrunon, mga amutan nila
(It's really tough when we
talk about financial matters

The journey of parents with
two college students is
marked by the challenge of
balancing financial support
for their children's
education, daily household
expenses, and unexpected
financial burdens, all
motivated by the hope for a
brighter future once their
children complete their
studies.
With the return of face-to-
face classes, adapting to
the 'new normal' involves
grappling with the increased
expenses associated with
public transportation and
the rising cost of gasoline.
because everything around
us seems so expensive, and
it's fortunate that tuition at
school is free, but even
when it's free, there are still
extra expenses and things
they need to buy.)
IDI-05: Isip usa ka ginikanan
sa duh aka college dili gyud
intawn lalim kay usahay ana
magsbay silag pangayo og
pang amot ana nila unya
pang adlaw-adlaw pa namo
nga kinahanglanon drea sa
balay, naa pa gyud tay
sinimana, peor sige ra antus
ra gyud ta ani gud,
mahuman ra bitaw na sila
puhon og magtraung lang
gyud.
(As parents of two college
students, it's really not easy
because sometimes they
ask for financial support,
and we have daily
household expenses to take
care of. There are also
unexpected expenses, but
we just endure this because
we know they will finish their
studies and things will get
better in the future.)
FGD-01: Karon gyud nga
nibalik ang face to face
kungbaga new normal na ba
isa gyud sa mga nag taas
kay ang plite gyud og ang
litro sa gasolina.
(Now that face-to-face
classes have resumed, it's
like a new normal, and one
of the challenges is the high
cost of public transportation
and the price of gasoline.)
FGD-02: Mao unya kita ani

Parental concern for
children's health drives a
strong desire for them to
consume nutritious food
when they are well.
The enduring love and
worry of parents for their
grown children's well-being,
particularly when they're
away from home, is a
testament to the
unbreakable bonds of
parenthood. This theme
highlights the profound and
timeless connection
between parents and their
children, where the instinct
to protect and nurture
continues to shape their
nga ultimo ra lisod pa kaayu
ang pag pangita sa kwarta
mahal pa gyud kaayu tanan
palitonon.
(That's how it is, and even
with just the basics, it's still
really difficult to make ends
meet.)
FGD-03: Murag tanan
palitonon ning taas man.
(It seems that everything
has high price range.)
FGD-05: Unya naa pay
pang allowance nila taga
adlaw.
(Then, there's also their
daily allowance.)
IDI-01: Kaming mga
ginikanan gyud ang health
gyud kanunay sa mga anak
ang naa kanunay sa among
hunahuna, kung wala bya
sakit sa iyaha, maong gusto
nako nga magkaon gyud og
mga sustansyado nga
pagkaon ba.
(We parents always
prioritize the health of our
children in our minds, so if
they're not sick, I really want
them to eat nutritious food.)
IDI-02: Isip ginikanan gyud,
bisan pag dagko nana atung
mga anak mag sig era baya
gihapon tag hunahuna sa
ilang safety kanunay og
healthy raba sila og wa bay
sakit sa ilaha mga kabalaka
ba ana, labi na tung aakong
bata kay nag boarding
house baya tu.
(As parents, even when our
children grow up, we still
thoughts and actions,
emphasizing that the bonds
of parenthood are
unwavering and eternal.
The thematic statement
emerging from these
responses underscores the
initial parental anxiety and
apprehension regarding
their children's safety upon
returning to school after a
period of closure. This
anxiety gradually transforms
into a sense of reassurance
as time passes and
confidence in the safety
measures taken by the
school and community
grows, highlighting the
dynamic nature of parental
concerns and their ability to
evolve in response to
changing circumstances.
The thematic statement
here centers on the
universal and intrinsic
nature of parental concern
for their children's well-
being. It emphasizes that
such care and worry are not
only common but also
expected, illustrating the
profound and enduring bond
between parents and their
children, where the
safeguarding of their
welfare is a fundamental
aspect of parenthood.
The persistent parental
worry even as children grow
into adulthood, especially in
the context of the ongoing
pandemic. It highlights the
enduring nature of parental
concerns regarding their
children's health and safety,
always have concerns about
their safety and health,
especially when my child is
living in a boarding house.)
IDI-03: Katung bag o pang
abri sa klase napuno gyud
kos kabalaka no nga basin
manga unsa mo didtoa sa
gawas unya inig uli ninyu
dinhi nangatkdan na hinoun,
pero sa kadugayan
nakampanti na man noun ko
nga safety sa sila didtoa sa
gawas.
(When classes first
reopened, I was really
worried about what might
happen outside, and when
you all come back, you
might have been exposed to
something. But over time,
I've become more reassured
about their safety outside.)
IDI-04: Oo syempre isip usa
ka ginikanan gyud permi
man gyud ng mag sige tag
hunahuna sa maayung
panglawas sa atung mga
anak uy nrmal ran as
ginikakan gyud.
(Yes, of course, as a parent,
we always think about the
well-being of our children.
It's normal for us parents to
do so.)
IDI-05: Oo naa uy bisag
dagko nana akkong mga
anak mabalaka man
gihapon ta no, ilabi na gyud
atung bag o pang sgod sa
klase ,mabalaka ko uy nga
bsin inig uli nganhis balay
nakatakdan na noun og
Covid.
particularly when facing new
challenges like the return to
school amid the threat of
Covid-19. This theme
underscores that parental
care and anxiety transcend
age, reflecting the profound
and timeless connection
between parents and their
children.
It's from these responses
revolves around the initial
parental apprehension and
anxiety when schools
reopened after a prolonged
closure. This concern gives
way to a sense of relief and
optimism as time
progresses and the situation
improves, highlighting the
adaptability and resilience
of both parents and
students in the face of
uncertainty and change.
The thematic statement
arising from these
responses centers on the
belief that schools are
unlikely to reopen unless
stringent safety measures
are in place. It underscores
the importance of ensuring
the safety and well-being of
students, reflecting a trust in
educational institutions to
prioritize these aspects
when making decisions
about reopening.
(Yes, even when my
children are already grown, I
still worry, especially with
the new school term. I worry
that they might bring Covid
home when they return.)
FGD-04: Katung pagblaik
abri sa klse nga naa gyud
ng kabalaka uy, kay pila gud
tu ka tuig wla nil aka abrihan
ang skwelahan so isip usa
ka ginikanan mag alingasa
gyud pero kadugayan na
okay raman.
(When they first reopened
the schools, there was real
concern, because it had
been closed for several
years. As a parent, I was
really anxious, but
eventually, things turned out
okay.)
FGD-01: Pero hunahuna
sad namo atu dili man
siguro na nila abrihan og
balik ang skwelahan kung
dili sila sure nga okay ra.
(But we also think that they
probably won't reopen the
school unless they're sure
that it's safe.
FGD-03: Maong nakampanti
ra kaayu kadugayan.
(That's why, I am now at
peace.)