First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos Honors Father’s Day with Heartfelt Tribute

On June 15, 2025, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos shared a touching tribute to President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Father’s Day, highlighting his pivotal role within their family. In a heartfelt social media post, Liza expressed her admiration, stating, "You’re not just an amazing dad – you’re the heart of our home." The post included a collage of photos featuring the President with their three sons, illustrating the family's close-knit bonds.

Liza's tribute emphasized the stability and love that Marcos brings to their household, further describing him as "the calm in our chaos and the king of our castle [even if I’m still the Queen]." This public display of affection not only celebrates the personal side of the President but also showcases the importance of familial relationships in the context of Filipino culture.

The significance of Father’s Day in the Philippines resonates deeply with societal values that prioritize family. According to Dr. Maria Cruz, a sociologist at the University of the Philippines, "Celebrations like Father’s Day are deeply embedded in Filipino culture, highlighting respect and gratitude towards family members. The Marcos family’s public display of affection can foster a sense of unity among their supporters."

In her message, Liza also recognized her husband's dual role as a father and a leader, saying, "Today, we celebrate the man our children look up to…and the husband I still look at with love [and occasional exasperation]. Love you forever." This statement not only highlights the personal affection within the family but also subtly acknowledges the complexities of balancing familial duties with political responsibilities.

Public reactions to Liza’s post have varied, with many expressing admiration for the Marcos family dynamics, while others critique the perceived superficiality of such displays in the context of ongoing national issues. Political analyst Dr. Jose Ramos from Ateneo de Manila University commented, "While familial love is commendable, the Marcos administration must also address pressing national concerns to gain broader public support."

The First Lady’s gesture of love and appreciation comes at a time when the Marcos administration is navigating various socio-economic challenges facing the nation, including inflation and job creation. As the family continues to navigate their public and private lives, such personal acknowledgments may serve to humanize political figures in the eyes of the public.

In conclusion, Liza Araneta-Marcos's heartfelt tribute to her husband on Father’s Day provides insight into the dynamics of the Marcos family and reflects broader cultural values in the Philippines. While the family continues to represent a significant political legacy, moments like these remind the public of the personal facets of leadership amidst the complexities of governance. As the nation looks towards future elections, the Marcos family's public persona will likely play a crucial role in shaping public perception and support.