Mama Lyd, the first SOS mother at SOS Children's Villages Philippines

Mama Lyd was among the first SOS mothers to take charge of a family at SOS Children's Village Lipa in the Philippines in 1967 and has raised a total of 29 children since then.

Lydia Suelo "Mama Lyd" graduated from Leyte State University in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Homemaking and was awarded the "Best Dressmaker of the Year"! Later on in her life she was able to ensure that children entrusted to her care would get the best education. Although there were difficulties that went with the tasks of motherhood - like doing the laundry at a time when washing machines were unheard of in Village houses - Mama Lyd says that she didn't have many difficulties raising her children. No wonder, then, that her children truly love her and still send her text messages expressing their love.

It's been eleven years since she retired. We spent some time with her and took Mama Lyd down memory lane:

How did you feel as one of the first SOS mothers in the country?
I was truly honoured and blessed because being an SOS mother is a gift from God, a vocation that you can give love to these children.

Do your children come and meet you regularly?
When I was still living at the retirement home at SOS Children's Village Lipa they always used to visit me. They would come with their families so I still got to see my grandchildren. But now that I am here in Iloilo, it's hard for them to come. I receive letters from them with pictures showing where and how they are now.

Could you share some memorable events of your time in the SOS Children's Village - it may be something interesting, light-hearted, frightening?
One of the most memorable moments was when I visited my parents in Iloilo and I brought along one of my children. My father got to talk to my son and he was deeply moved by his story. Before we left to go back to Lipa, my father told me that he was very proud of what had become of me. He told me to always take care of that child. From then onwards, I felt I had accomplished a great thing for society.

There have been a lot of changes in SOS Children's Villages since you joined. How do you see this?
I know all of the changes in the organization will be good for everyone, from the children to the SOS mothers and co-workers.

What will do you recommend to new SOS mothers?
Since we are here at SOS Children's Villages, let us consider these children as our own. It would be a waste of energy if we were here but our minds were on other things outside. We should care for ourselves and be happy to take care of these children.

Any unfulfilled wishes, if any?
Nothing. I know I've fulfilled all of my dreams and wishes by having 29 children and serving SOS Children's Villages for 29 years