Sunshine Cruz champions non-traditional Filipino families
Actress Sunshine Cruz has publicly announced her support for the Pamilya Ko party-list, an organization dedicated to advocating for non-traditional Filipino families. This political group was established with the fundamental goal of providing a voice and support system for family structures that differ from the traditional model.
A Personal Connection
As a proud single mother who independently raised her children, Cruz deeply understands the challenges faced by these often-overlooked groups. She emphasizes the critical need for an organization that actively represents and safeguards the welfare and rights of disadvantaged families who, through various circumstances, have been unjustly denied their full rights and privileges.
Expressing her concern, Cruz stated, “I personally feel for the increasing number of broken families who are constantly struggling for survival, and who are not aware of their legal rights and privileges.” Her personal experience fuels her commitment to this cause.
Recognizing Diverse Family Structures
The Pamilya Ko party-list recognizes the diverse forms that families take in contemporary Filipino society. These include families headed by live-in partners, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), victims of domestic violence, adoptive parents, blended families, LGBTQ+ individuals, the elderly, and solo parents. To easily remember these diverse groups, the acronym “LOVABLES” has been created.
Advocating for Legal Rights
Cruz, identifying strongly with the party-list’s platform, highlighted their plans to propose significant legislation. This includes advocating for equal rights for children born both in and out of wedlock, as well as domestic partnership rights encompassing inheritance and the authority to make medical decisions during emergencies. Furthermore, the party-list aims to provide essential livelihood, medical, and legal assistance programs to these families.
Admiration for Leadership
Cruz voiced her deep respect for the organization, particularly acknowledging its first nominee, Atty. Anel Diaz. She noted Diaz’s exceptional achievement in topping the 2003 bar examinations and the inspiring nature of his advocacy, which stems from his own experiences as a young orphan. Cruz concluded by saying, “We salute our public servants whose concept of service is more empowering and long-term.”
