As Valentine’s Day approaches, many people are setting up to celebrate the day of love. Where people commit their time and affection through greetings and gifts for those dear to them. Frontliners, however, dedicated their lives to serving others; this occasion does not frequently take priority over their duty.
The demands of their jobs often prevent them from participating in celebrations and spending time with their loved ones. Their commitment to their work highlights the powerful sacrifices that they make.
Father John Mendoza of Camalig Chapel explains that love is not simply about personal gain or fleeting affection; it is about putting others before oneself, whether it be a romantic partner or family.
Father Mendoza reflects that love is a good example of the sacrifice that Christ did on the cross.
“This is the perfect and the summit of all meaning about love,” he said.
Police Officer Marly Gragasin, public information officer of Camalig Police Station, with over 23 years of service, explained that sometimes they have to adjust to a pre— or post-Valentine’s Day celebration.
“We don’t always celebrate on the exact date, especially if we’re on duty. Sometimes, we celebrate before or after the day itself,” she said.
Gragasin expressed that in this kind of work, they must always be ready to respond; regardless of whether they are on duty, if their job demands their presence, they are expected to go and fulfill their responsibilities and priorities.
Their commitment to their responsibilities often comes before their personal satisfaction, reflecting their dedication to serving others, even at the cost of missing out on special moments.
Romelo, a security guard of an automobile company in Albay, said his duties often require him to be on shift, particularly when his schedule aligns with responsibilities. He mentioned that if he was unable to be present on a specific day, he would prioritize his work, but he would make it up to his loved ones on another day when possible.
But the spirit of love will never be gone. As Romelo explains, if he has the time, they will go on a simple outing so that the children can understand and experience what Valentine’s Day is all about.
“At least the children get to experience and understand what Valentine’s Day is, even with such a simple gesture,” Romelo said.
For Romelo, love is not always about grand gifts or celebrations. It’s about the thought and effort behind the small moments shared with those we care about, making each day a celebration of love.
Maria Gloria Rito, a nurse from Josefina Belmonte Duran Albay, said that for many frontline workers, love is an ongoing commitment. Their work often means putting others first, but they still find ways to show their family and friends how much they care.
“It’s not really about celebrating on February 14. The important thing is showing your partner and loved ones that you care, even on regular days. It’s about making sure they know they are loved and appreciated,” she shares.
While behind the usual Valentine’s thought about dating and gathering, these frontliners act out of love and sacrifice. For some people who are able to relax and enjoy special moments, there are others who are making sacrifices in order for individuals to enjoy Valentine’s Day. These efforts often go unnoticed.I Nicole Castillo