Tes soars through the skies, but her heart always remains grounded with her family. 

While not usually part of the limelight like her daughter, actress Gabbi Garcia, Tes is sharing the spotlight this Mother’s Day in Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) touching video featuring their mother-daughter story.

The four-minute video highlights the unique struggles and triumphs Tes overcomes as a flight attendant and a mom. Their story showcases the unwavering love and the remarkable flexibility required to be both a successful flight attendant and a devoted mother.

For the past 30 years, Tes has been exploring the skies as a PAL flight attendant, a career she began even before Gabbi was born. Despite her mother’s busy schedule, Tes has always been there for the family.

Shattering Ceilings, Breaking Stereotypes

While undergoing a rigorous training program and a career that takes her all over the world, Tes built a beautiful and loving family.

Photo / Tes with her daughters in one of her flights

“Hindi nakakaka-miss ng important events si mommy. And I feel like that was very vital for me growing up kasi parang naging role model ka sa’kin, na kapag gusto mo, magagawan mo talaga siya ng paraan.” (“Mommy never missed any important events. And I feel like that was very vital for me growing up because you served as my role model, showing me that if there’s a will, there’s a way.”)

Tes’ commitment went beyond scheduling flexibility. Even when her flight schedule coincided with major holidays, Tes found creative ways to celebrate.

“Kunwari ang Christmas is I have a flight, kunwari tomorrow is December 25, so today, gagawin kong December 25 tapos magse-celebrate tayo ng Christmas day,” says Tes. (“For example, on Christmas day I have a flight and it’s tomorrow, I will make today December 25 and we will celebrate Christmas.”)

Photo / Tes and her family bonding together and enjoying the snow

Gabbi has fond memories, even from her youth, of her mother in action as a flight attendant. Unsurprisingly, Tes grabs every opportunity to spend time with her family.

“Syempre, sobra akong grateful sa PAL. Imagine sa flight ko, puwede kong isama yung family ko,” says Tes. (“Of course, I’m incredibly grateful to PAL. Imagine, on some of my flights, I could even bring my family.”)

 From Mother to Mentor

While growing up, Gabbi shared she was interested in becoming a pilot but plans changed when she started exploring show business. 

When asked if Tes got disappointed about it, she replies, “Hindi naman, kasi nga ‘di ba naniniwala nga ako na kung ano ‘yung para sa’yo, para sa’yo.” (“Not really, because I believe, what’s meant for you is for you.”)

Photo / Throughout the years, Tes has been a super mom to her daughters while balancing work and family time

For Gabbi, this is the best advice she received from her mom that she takes anywhere she goes. 

Motherhood seemingly does not stop within Tes’ family. She also brings her motherly love and care to her work as a Purser, the highest-ranking flight attendant.

“‘Pag lumilipad ako, marami akong kasama na kalipad, na parang ka-age niyo nga, na parang anak ko na,” she explains. “Kasi they ask for advice. I guide them. So, basically, parang the same [with being a mother].” (“On flights, I have many crew members who feel like my own children,” she explains. “They ask for advice and I guide them. So, basically it’s the same [with being a mother]”.)

Every Day Should be Mother’s Day

Towards the end of the video, Gabbi leaves a touching message to her hardworking mom, acknowledging the sacrifices Tes made and the immense love that allowed Gabbi to reach for her dreams.

“Every day, mothers should be celebrated. Lahat ng ginagawa mo (all that you do) is really for us,” says Gabbi. “This Mother’s Day, I just want to tell you that I love you and I can’t imagine life without you. All those sacrifices are definitely worth it because we are okay because of you,” she adds.

PAL’s Mother’s Day video not only celebrates the power of a mother’s love but also sheds light on the airline’s commitment to supporting working mothers. This Mother’s Day, PAL salutes all the amazing moms, the dedicated flight attendants who wear their uniforms with pride, and the loving mothers who give their families the world, even the skies.

This Mother’s Day, PAL gave away gifts to three lucky followers for an unforgettable travel experience! The airline asked and they answered – heartwarming stories were shared via the @flypal Instagram Stories where PAL and Mabuhay Miles followers expressed their love for their moms by sharing where they want to travel together. Visit PAL’s social pages to learn more! #MilesForMom.

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