September 26, 2026
Preschoolers celebrate Grandparents Day at Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines
By Thania Florendo
“To respect and care for the elderly of the world as if they were our own parents is the true practice of great filial piety and boundless love,” says Master Cheng Yen in a Jing Si Aphorism.
A day of dancing, laughter, and handmade gifts brought generations together as the young learners of Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines honored their grandparents during Grandparents Day on September 25 at Tzu Chi’s branch in Agno, Quezon City.
Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines Directress Jane Sy welcomed the families and highlighted the lasting influence grandparents have on their grandchildren.
“Grandparents play an important role in our grandchildren’s lives through their stories and unconditional love. They learn real and valuable lessons from their grandparents,” Sy shared.
The children brought their grandparents back to the nostalgic feeling of childhood and a glimpse of their joyful and youthful days. Through dance performances, video greetings, and bracelet-making, the children expressed their love and gratitude for the elders who have guided, cared for, and nurtured them.
Eighty-one-year-old Albino Kaw said he was happy to be at the event with his whole family. As a self-proclaimed favorite of his grandson, Odain, he shared that the boy will always have a soft spot in his heart, especially when he asks for toys.
“I teach him how to be a good boy, to be close with his cousins, parents, and grandparents,” he shared. He hopes his grandson will pursue his ideal career in the future and work with his grandfather.
Lisa Lee, grandmother of Deborah, shared that spending time with her granddaughter is her stress reliever. She truly enjoys being a grandmother, but she can get strict sometimes about teaching manners to discipline her.
“She’s just a bit naughty because she’s young, but she follows it,” Lee said.
The celebration ended with surprise gift sets of vegan mooncakes and fruits for the families, coinciding with the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time traditionally associated with family reunion, gratitude, and blessings.
Tzu Chi volunteer Helen Cho (left) and Tzu Chi Youth Sharon Chua hosted the event.
Preschool staffers set up photo displays and art exhibits for everyone to explore.
Families were busy looking back at old photos and cherished memories.
Families were busy looking back at old photos and cherished memories
Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines Directress Jane Sy welcomed the families and highlighted the important role grandparents play in the lives of young learners.
A parent captures a performance to treasure for the years to come.
Everyone cheered as the young learners took the stage.
Albino Kaw shares that one of his favorite memories with his grandson Odain was their trip to Shanghai, where they spent much of their time together.
Albino Kaw comforts his grandson Odain before their performance.
The kindergarten class filled the stage with fun and energy during their lively performance.
Parents gave way for the grandparents to enjoy the special moment with their grandchildren.
Grandparents enjoyed choosing their favorite colors for their bracelets.
Grandparents enjoyed choosing their favorite colors for their bracelets.
Guests showed a little teamwork to make sure everyone got a bracelet.
The grandparents enjoyed the moment just as much as the children did.
Lisa Lee shares that her favorite bonding time with granddaughter Deborah is going to the mall once a week.
Grandparents string beads together to make a bracelet.
Guests gather for a quick snap at the photo booth for another cherished memory.
A warm group photo of grandparents, parents, learners, and school staff wraps up a celebration filled with love, laughter, and cherished family moments.