Daddy cool
It’s hard to put a finger on what makes a cool dad. If the criteria include accomplishment, self-confidence, swagger, and a good sense of humor, the men on our list check all the boxes. But what makes them exceptionally cool is that these gents take pleasure in care-giving that the previous generation (of fathers) didn’t quite enjoy. They’re more engaged with their kids and are somehow just there—always a reassuring presence.
And yes, they’re heartthrobs, too! There is, after all, something undeniably cool about the handsome iconoclast who protects and provides, finds time to pursue his passions, and still makes it home in time for family dinner.
Read on as Lance Gokongwei, Kevin Tan, Senator Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, Senator Mark Villar, Ernest Cu, Donnie Tantoco, Peter Coyiuto, Emerson Yao, Dr. Z Teo, Capt. Stanley Ng, Rico Hizon, Franco Laurel, and sculptor Ramon Orlina share why they’re the apple of their children’s eyes.
Sen. Miguel ‘Migz’ Zubiri: The passionate dad
Being a cool dad has a lot to do with Senator Migz Zubiri’s own upbringing.
“I grew up with cool parents, Joe Zubiri and Vicky,” enthuses Migz. “They would simply explain the merits and consequences of my possible choices, then let me make my own decision and deal with the after-effects.”
This, he says, shaped him to be responsible, independent and accountable for his own actions.
On a light note, Migz is a collector of cool stuff—from fossils to samurai art, crystal rocks, and vintage cars, among many others. He loves to travel and combs shops and flea markets for interesting items to add to his growing collection.
“Lately, I am thrilled to be able to share some of my passions with my sons, who are as curious and interested in many of my hobbies as I am,” he shares.
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
Nothing ever prepares you for the birth of your first child. It’s a rush of emotions—from excitement to anxiety to nervousness all in one morning—which I experienced when my daughter Adriana was born. Hearing the first cry of my daughter brought tears to my eyes and all I could think of was to thank God for this incredible blessing and for the strength and beauty of my wife Audrey.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
I find myself practicing the same brand of parenting now—staying cool and giving my children space to make their own decisions and learn from them. However, having said that, I do have certain non-negotiables: upholding religious beliefs and practices, Sunday family day with their grandparents, respect, love for country and neighbor, and prioritizing their education.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
It would be making decisions that may be difficult and run counter to political wisdom but I feel are necessary in protecting the integrity of our name. This is because I want to make sure that they have a name that is untarnished and that they can be proud of.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
The best thing I’ve learned from being a father to Adriana, Juanmi, and Santi is learning to live for someone else. Becoming a father has opened a whole new world for me where I put the welfare and concerns of my family before my own.
Sen. Mark Villar: The artsy dad
It was love at first sight when Senator Mark Villar first laid his eyes on daughter Emma.
“From that moment on, I knew there was nothing like the love I felt for her and that my life would never be the same again,” says the doting dad with an artistic side.
Aside from collecting the works of the masters, Senator Villar is also musically inclined. He plays the sax—and with daughter Emma and their fur babies—to blow his stress away.
The senator knows his way around the kitchen, too! His specialty? Beef barbecue.
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
I remember the first time I held our daughter, Emma, very clearly. I was overwhelmed with so much joy it seemed like a dream. As soon as she was cleaned, they bundled her up in a blanket and I got to carry her. I was scared of dropping her or hurting her because she seemed so fragile. She was born premature and was just four pounds. Her skin had not filled out yet, but her face was full and rosy and her eyes were a surprising and striking color of gray.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
I am somewhere in between all three. I try to be a cool dad so I try to do the things Emma likes doing. I am also a very protective dad. I want to know what Emma is up to and what she is doing, but I don’t hover.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
The things I have done for Emma were never a sacrifice for me. I do everything that I do for her unconditionally.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
I learned to savor the moments with Emma and treasure the little things that happen in our lives. She is growing up so fast and I realize how important time spent with her is.
Lance Gokongwei: The podcast fanatic dad
“Family should always be top priority.” That’s advice from his dad that JG Summit Holdings Inc. president and CEO Lance Gokongwei takes to heart. A tall order from a big guy with a big heart.
“My father, John Gokongwei, practiced that,” he says. “I practice that, too.”
And just like his dad who was a voracious reader, Lance starts his day by reading The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Financial Times and Bloomberg every day.
He’s also a podcast fanatic.
“I enjoy learning about history, biographies, and the NBA on Audible,” adds the CEO, who shares that 90% of his work shirts are blue.
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
We were praying for a healthy child and were blessed when our first born arrived well and strong.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
Cool dad, of course. My kids may not agree. (Laughs).
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
When you are doing it for your family, it doesn’t feel like a sacrifice.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
The adage is true. You reap what you sow. You get what you give.
Kevin Tan: The joker dad
Inventing jokes is one of the favorite bonding activities of Global Alliance Group CEO and kids Kathleena and Andrew. Add to that, traveling. For this busy executive, traveling is the “best way to further cement the line between business and family.”
In one of his interviews, Kevin shared that travel helps build memories in the kids' formative years.
“It’s what they’ll take with them as they grow up and these will form their values as well,” he added.
When asked what are the three things the public doesn’t know about him, Kevin replied: “I’m an open book. What you see is what you get.”
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born? Please tell us yours.
I recall carrying my daughter Katy in my arms in the car ride from the hospital all the way home when we were discharged. It was the best feeling in the world and it's a story I love sharing with my daughter all the time. It makes her smile.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
Cool dad. I try to be open and communicate with my kids Katy and Drew regularly. I also try to have fun with them. We invent jokes together.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
Maybe the other way around. Sometimes not being able to attend their school activities because of work travel.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
To be patient and understanding.
Capt. Stanley Ng: The aviator dad
Philippine Airlines (PAL) president and COO Stanley Ng believes that parenting is one of the toughest jobs in the world. Yes, perhaps harder than operating and navigating an aircraft.
“I’ve learned so many things, from being patient to better time management to being a responsible human being, and a whole lot more,” he says.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
When my kids—Miles, 16; and Bea, 14—were still young, I used to be stricter, because I believe enforcing clear rules and expectations will help them understand what is acceptable behavior and what is not. It also teaches them that actions lead to consequences, which develops discipline and sense of responsibility. However, when they turned teenagers, I started shifting to become a cooler dad, because if they have the right values from childhood, at this stage in their lives, they need moral support, empathy, and guidance.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
I enjoyed every moment with my kids, I never see those as sacrifices.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
I learned the art of unconditional love—loving genuinely without asking for anything in return. It took me some time to embrace this, but this truly liberates me.
Emerson Yao: The watchful dad
Being in motion is when Emerson Yao, Lucerne Group of Companies managing director, finds the time to pause, take a breather, and reflect about life.
“And running allows me that,” the third-generation watch retailer says. “I finished the Six-star Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2023, where only 60 runners from the Philippines were able to complete.”
He also dabbles in art. He loves to draw and paint during his free time.
As a father, Emerson watches from a distance—letting his children make their own mistakes and learn from the experience independently.
“I step in only if I see a potential danger. I motivate them to be their best and often reward good behavior,” he adds.
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
Bringing home our eldest, Mark, was a magical moment filled with awe and wonder at having been part of creating life. Along with the joy came the immense responsibility of parenthood: the duty to be a role model, to nurture, guide, and raise him to be the best he can be. A year later, we were again blessed with our daughter May, which doubled our joy! She filled the room with endless energy, and watching them grow up together made every day truly special.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
I think I am a cool dad, but you’d have to ask my kids to be sure. I motivate them to be their best and often reward good behavior.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
Like many parents, we strive to provide the best education for our children. In our case, we sent both kids abroad for their undergraduate studies. We were at the time empty-nesters. Mark, who studied at Harvard University, was away for a total of eight years which included four years of work experience after college. And May went to LASALLE College of Arts in Singapore.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
Our kids see us as their role models, and what we say, do, and how we behave have a profound impact on their lives.
Ernest Cu: The tech dad
Globe Telecom president and CEO Ernest Cu is the kind of father who is always in tune with his kids.
“My children come to me for advice on everything—from the latest gadgets to concerts, to going out to parties,” shares Ernest.
Being the tech guy himself, he can relate to his children’s interests. This connection makes his children comfortable sharing their world with him, providing a balance between freedom and mentorship.
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
Four years into our marriage, Arlene and I were blessed with Cristina’s arrival, a moment that was truly special. One of the most vivid memories is the profound experience of cutting her umbilical cord.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
I’m not strict because I let them do what they want, but always with guidance.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
It’s, undeniably, time. From the moment Cristina was born, I’ve devoted my life to working hard and prioritizing the family’s wellbeing. Arlene and I divided our responsibilities in a way that allowed us to function as a cohesive unit: She took care of the household, while I focused on bringing home the bacon, as they say. My aim has always been to secure our financial future, ensuring our children have everything they need to thrive. But this commitment often came at the expense of time I could have spent with them. Every extra hour at the office or business trip taken meant moments missed at home.
Now that we are getting older and my two children have started their own families, we spend more time traveling with a sense of freedom that comes from years of hard work. Blessed with three wonderful grandkids, our family has grown, bringing even more joy and laughter into our lives.
What’s the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
My greatest realization as a father is recognizing that the role demands continuous growth and adaptability. Every stage of my children’s lives introduces new challenges and joys, and I’ve learned that there is no one-size-fits-all approach because my kids are different in their own way. I must be a mentor, a friend, and at times, disciplinarian, all while providing unconditional love and support. Being a father is about being present and listening, understanding their unique needs, and guiding them as they navigate life. This role has profoundly shaped my perspective, teaching me patience and compassion.
Rico Hizon: The hands-on dad
“There’s no perfect dad,” says former news anchor Rico Hizon. “Money isn’t everything. You can’t buy yourself to be the best.”
What’s important, he adds, is dedication.
“I’m a hands-on dad. It came to a point that when my son got to his teenage years, I had to step in and guide him like teaching him how to shave or how to play basketball,” relates Rico, who is now the senior vice president for corporate relations, SM Investments.
Rico has loved sports since he was a kid. He likes wrapping books and gifts, too.
“I’m also a frustrated entrepreneur. I join bazaars three to four times a year,” he shares.
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
I remember the first time I traveled with my son Migo on a flight to Manila from Singapore without my wife Melannie, when he was just a few months old. I will never forget that experience because I kind of panicked because he was not just crying on the plane, but I had to change his diapers too. I had mixed feelings, I was nervous and worried about the trip. But it was so fulfilling and at the same time unforgettable. We really bonded!
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad?
I believe I’m all of the above. (Laughs). I’m a hands-on father. I do what a dad is supposed to do and discuss with his son. But one thing’s for sure is that we three keep an open communication. Melannie and I don’t judge right away. We discuss things as a family and decide.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your child?
I never saw myself making any difficult sacrifice for Migo. I love my family so much that I never see anything as a sacrifice. They are my joy and life.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
I’ve learned that time, dedication, love and making God the center of your family life are essential.
Dr. Z Teo: The stylish dad
There’s always a hint of playfulness with the way Dr. Z Teo dresses up. Just like his wife, Dr. Aivee Teo, his statement-making separates, shoes, and accessories are trendy but not over the top.
“I try to keep myself fit, fashionable, and young-looking (thanks to the Aivee Clinic) so that my kids don’t think of me as an aging old daddy with a big tummy,” says Dr. Z, who is also a (champion) swimmer and is ambidextrous.
“I was born left-handed, but my great grandmother would spank my left hand when I was young to make me use my right. Left-handed people were not considered normal for the traditional Chinese at that time,” he explains.
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
The story that comes to mind was trying to figure out the best way to discipline my son, Ken-Z. I vividly remember having to have a standoff with him for eight hours while he was trying to get away from doing something wrong. I was prepared to let him sleep by himself in the balcony if he did not apologize for his mistake. Finally, after eight hours, he relented, much to the relief of everyone in the house. After that incident, I never had any more problems disciplining him.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
When they were younger, I was extremely strict with them until they were around eight years old. I believe that teaching kids what’s right and wrong needs to start at a young age. I am not a helicopter dad at all.
What does being a “fur dad” mean to you?
It means devotion, care, and commitment because a fur baby is like a child to me. I give them the same care and concern I give my kids.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
To give up my time in Singapore with my clinic and my time with my parents so that I can be with them more in Manila. That is probably the biggest sacrifice I did for them. I believe a dad should be with his kids as much as possible.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
Knowing how deep one can really love someone else. I believe one will not know his full capacity to love until he has kids.
Ramon Orlina: The shopaholic dad
Even before the pandemic, contemporary glass sculptor Ramon Orlina has always worked from home.
“That’s the luxury of being an artist. I got to spend time with my growing children even when I was working,” he says. His art exhibits are a family affair.
Did you know that the famous sculptor is also a techie and shopaholic? He has been an Apple fan since the ’80s and enjoys some retail therapy.
“While everyone I knew was using PC/Window, I was already using Macintosh,” Ramon says with pride. “I also like dressing up and trying new styles. I have been wearing my iconic neckwear for over a decade. You could say I started a trend.”
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
Naesa is my first child. The day she was born, there was an ASEAN summit here in Manila. So the reverse of the word ASEAN is NAESA. When Lee Kuan Yew come down the plane, that same moment Naesa was born. Naesa is, indeed, an ASEAN baby. My wife, Lay Ann, is Malaysian. I am Filipino. We met because of my projects in Singapore.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
I’m a very present dad. They can always find me at home. I am also a cool dad. I have been able to give my children—Naesa, 37; Ning Ning, 35; Anna, 32; and Michael, 27—very cool experiences on travels and even meeting interesting people.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
The most difficult sacrifice is Sunday dinner. My family is the one who chooses the restaurant to eat in. It’s rarely my choice (Laughs). For years, one of our “favorite” meals is shabu-shabu. Everyone enjoys it except me. But seeing them happily eating makes me happy.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
There is quite a generation gap between my kids and I. Though, because of that, we get to share with each other our generations’ culture and kung ano ang uso. My kids have always been exposed to things from my generation and vice versa. For example, they are all fans of The Beatles and Elvis. I also get to learn a lot from them and get to keep up with the times and trends.
Bienvenido ‘Donnie’ Tantoco III: The protective dad
Rustan Commercial Corporation chairman Bienvenido “Donnie”Tantoco III’s main priorities in life are centered on family and serving—not pleasing—“to empower those whom you are serving to be their most inspired and inspiring self.”
“I am becoming more childlike as I approach 60. It’s actually nice to be free from so many things that mattered when I was more of a corporate warrior type of guy,” he shares. “I am learning more and more the importance, freedom, and joy of serving rather than being served.”
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
My twins, Nicole and Camille, were born in Hong Kong, a place where everything is super fast. And so, it was only for a fleeting moment that I laid eyes on them for the very first time. Nicole’s eyes were closed, and Camille’s were wide open as if she was trying to soak and immerse in the world she was just born into. The first time I saw my wife, Crickette, holding our babies was one of the most beautiful and magical moments of my life.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
I am strict sometimes. For example, when my daughters started liking boys, I became super strict and super protective. I don’t think I handled that period very well at all. When I am more in control of my misplaced anxieties, I am strict only with safety and drugs. With almost everything else, I try to just give freedom within boundaries, or freedom with responsibility.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
The closest to a difficult sacrifice might be when we chose to live near their school, even if it would entail a five-hour commute to and from our work every day for about two to three years. We prioritized their safety and their day-to-day well-being.
What’s the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
A dad is a protector. Aside from physical protection, we protect the spirit, the dignity, the sense of identity, and the purpose of our kids. The best way to protect them is to watch their backs while we allow them to become knowledgeable about themselves and their world on their own. Our biggest role as fathers is the spiritual leader of the family, to enable them to have a close relationship with God.
Peter Coyiuto: The prayerful dad
First Life Financial president and CEO Peter Coyiuto is not only good in business. He’s a witty writer, athletic, and religious, too.
“I was the skipper of the basketball team during my La Salle Senior High days,” Peter says. “I also join a weekly Bible study group.”
People close to the Coyiutos think Peter’s wife, Elena, is the boss. “But in reality, she’s in charge only when the family gets chaotic. When it’s peaceful, I’m the boss,” Peter says.
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
When Stephanie, my eldest daughter, was born, it’s the first time I saw the miracle of life.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
The first time I became a dad, I didn’t know anything. I’m still practicing, I’m still learning, still getting corrected in terms of how to be a fine husband and a good father.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
In life, there are many difficult and challenging situations. We make sacrifices but regardless of any given circumstance, we cherish the memories. To quote Charles R. Swindoll, evangelical Christian pastor: “Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children.” I have four kids—Stephanie, Samantha Mae, Alexander Peter, and Sofia—and made even six times harder now given that we have six grandchildren, and still counting. Elena and I love them so much and they keep us feeling young because they remind us of the times when we were raising their own parents.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
During my first five years of being a dad, I thought I was Superman. I could do anything. Six to 10 years, I thought that quality time was the answer. So, I made time to bond with my kids, no matter what. Eleven to 15 years, I thought I only had to make sure to tutor my kids personally. Sixteen to 20 years later, I thought I just had to be there to provide the guidance as they navigate life. Twenty-one to 25 years, I thought again that I just had continue to share wisdom. But now, after 26 to 30 years of being a dad, I realized God is in control.
Franco Laurel: The hugging dad
Award-winning actor and singer Franco Laurel enjoys spending quality time with his family at home as much as performing.
“I’m a homebody and an ambivert (a mix of introvert and extrovert),” Franco admits. “In fact, the only time I would go out is for work and special occasions.” Being present in his kids’ lives and being their number one cheerleader gives them the confidence to be the best version of themselves, and he says “I am extremely honored to be their father.”
He loves watching reality shows like Survivor, Top Chef, MasterChef, and So You Think You Can Dance?
Franco, who went to college at KEIO University in Japan, speaks fluent Japanese.
Every father has a story to tell about the time his first child was born. Please tell us yours.
I became an instant father when I married Ayen in 2001. I legally adopted Ayen’s eldest daughter Mariella, who was 10 at the time. I had to adjust to a life with a 10-year-old daughter all of a sudden. It’s a different dynamic when you build a relationship with a child who is past their formative years. It was a year later when Angia was born. Ayen was due to give birth anytime between Oct. 28 and Nov.3. I really hoped and prayed that she wouldn’t give birth on Halloween, Nov. 1 and 2 for obvious reasons. So when Ayen went into labor on Oct. 28, I was over the moon! The moment I held her in my arms, there was instant connection. I can’t explain the joy I had carrying my firstborn. I kept praying and thanking God for keeping Ayen and Angia safe and healthy.
Are you a cool dad? Strict dad? Helicopter dad? Please explain.
I am a mix of both. I can be the cool and fun dad by simply being present for my kids and enjoying every moment I am with them because they grow up so fast. But at the same time, I can be strict when I need to correct and discipline them. I realized after having four girls that everything can be resolved by talking to them and really explaining things to them. Communication is key to a healthy relationship.
What is the most difficult sacrifice you’ve made for your kids?
Well, I guess the most difficult sacrifice I had to make for my kids is thinking of their needs first before my own. I work very hard to provide for them and if there is something I want to get or do for myself, I think of them first, which I believe is a normal thing to do as a family man.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from being a dad?
That I am capable of giving unconditional love. It is something I learned from my mom and grandfather that I am able to give to my kids. There is no day where I don’t tell them how much I love them. I always give them the tightest hugs.
