In Philippine cinema, different roles of mothers are portrayed in the big screen. Since these are films, we may regard them as fictitious but we can ask ourselves… Do they happen in actuality? Yes, I think they do, in one way or another. People have been enthusiastic to watch movies because they can identify themselves with the stories or characters, if not for the simple reason of leisure. In effect, they would not want to miss any movie that would appropriately link them to what they are bound to watch. The following are some movies that tackle the lives of mothers in their different roles, both in film and reality:

 Anak - Vilma Santos (Josie) plays a mother trapped in a dilemma, whether she would choose providing for her family by working abroad, or being with them when she is most needed. In contrast to her sacrifices is a nonchalant and ungrateful daughter, played by Claudine Barretto (Carla). Unknown to Josie, her two elder children harbor a deep and painful resentment toward her. In their minds, their mother does not care for them. Josie desperately continues to try reaching out to her children but they refuse her tender appeals. It was not too late, though, for them to realize how much their mother has given of herself. It may not be the physical presence that is apparent at all times, but the thought on how a mother is willing to offer everything for her children despite her own adversities.

 Madrasta – In this movie, Sharon Cuneta (Mariel) plays the title role of being a stepmother, or “madrasta” as the name itself suggests. She is not readily accepted to be the woman who can replace the children’s biological mom. Rachel (Claudine Barretto), Edward’s (Christopher de Leon) eldest child, has difficulty turning over household responsibilities she had reluctantly accepted when her mother left. Ryan (Patrick Garcia) is unforthcoming, putting the blame on himself for his parents’ separation. Only Liza (Camille Prats), the youngest, is cheerful and who wholeheartedly treats Mariel as her own mom whom she never had before.

 Tanging Yaman – Gloria Romero (Loleng) is an aged mother stricken with a debilitating disease. From her, descends three siblings who are already well settled with their respective families having different lifestyles. The common thing that binds them is the love that their mother holds for all of them -- Loleng’s children and grandchildren. However, long-suppressed pains and bitterness get in their way as the siblings argue over the prospect of selling a vast tract of land. The greatest challenge is not to know who among them will get the most wealth and defeat the rest, but the true test is to witness how the family matriarch falter with her illness. Loleng lived a life with Christian self-offering until her demise.

In as much as these movies are heartwarming and inspiring, so is having a mother in our midst. Once in a while, we are prompted by these types of movies which have lessons to impart. They are not just reflections of the different roles mothers act out in this stage of real life. But most importantly, these movies are a constant reminder of mothers’ nurturing roles which are innate in them. Yet, the scene from which a child cannot truly be separated from his/her mother remains in the memories of people like us who love.

Certainly, one day is too short and is not enough to thank our mothers for their heroic deeds. Just the same, it’s uplifting to celebrate Mother’s Day because it’s the perfect moment when we give them back the favor of being loved, getting our utmost attention and assuring them that we will always be here as their sons and daughters.

A mother will forever be our favorite protagonist who, indeed, deserves to be called a superstar!