Joey Marquez and Pokwang: Children Shouldn’t Be Obliged to Care for Their Parents

In a recent interview on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, veteran actor Joey Marquez shared a surprising opinion: he believes children are not obliged to take care of their aging parents.

“Kasi bilang magulang… ako kasi hindi ko itinuring investment ang mga anak ko, itinuring ko silang responsibilidad,” he said. For Joey, being a parent is about giving without expecting anything in return.

His statement sparked discussions online—because in the Philippines, caring for parents isn’t just a family value. In many cases, it’s a legal duty.

The Cultural Expectation in the Philippines

Traditionally, Filipino families operate on a close-knit, interdependent structure. Children often live with their parents well into adulthood, and once the parents retire, the roles sometimes reverse — children provide for their parents’ needs. This cycle is influenced by economic realities, cultural norms, and even religious beliefs about honoring one’s father and mother.

However, as times change, so do family dynamics. Younger generations, especially those who grew up during or after the 1990s, are more exposed to global ideas of independence and self-sufficiency. For some, this means they believe parents should prepare for their own retirement, instead of relying on their children.

Pokwang’s Similar Stand

Joey Marquez isn’t the only celebrity to voice this opinion. Comedienne and actress Pokwang also made headlines when she addressed the same question on social media: “Responsibilidad ba ng anak na tulungan ang kanilang magulang kapag sila ay matanda na?”

Her answer? A clear “Para sakin, NO!” Pokwang explained that as long as her kids grow up to live happy, responsible lives and raise their own families well, “masaya na ako” — she expects nothing more. For her, raising children is about giving them the tools to live their own lives, not binding them with future financial obligations.

What the Law Says

Under the Family Code of the Philippines, children are required to support their parents if the parents are in need. Support means basic needs like food, shelter, clothing, medical care, and transportation.

If a parent can’t afford these essentials, the law says their children must help, depending on their capacity. If there are several children, they share the responsibility. Failing to provide this support can even lead to legal consequences.

READ: When Should Filipino Youth Move Out?

Proposed New Law: Parents Welfare Act of 2025

Earlier this year, lawmakers proposed the Parents Welfare Act of 2025, which would make abandoning or neglecting elderly parents a punishable offense.

Under the proposal, those found guilty could face fines or even jail time. However, there are exceptions—children would not be forced to help if their parents were abusive or if they genuinely cannot afford it.

This bill has received mixed reactions. Supporters say it protects the elderly. Critics argue that love and care shouldn’t be mandated by fear of punishment.

The Heart of the Debate

Some say children should care for their parents because it’s the right thing to do. Others believe, like Joey Marquez, that it should be a choice, not an obligation.

In the end, whether or not children should be obligated to care for their parents is a deeply personal choice. But as voices like Joey Marquez and Pokwang show, it’s a conversation worth having — one that could redefine the meaning of family support in the Philippines.