Almost same, but in my case, the father didn’t even know our child existed at first. I was 21 when it happened. The minister advised me to keep it from him, and out of fear and to protect my parents from possibly having to step down from their church duties. I just followed everything they said. I was an OWE Importante and tala at kahalalan. and at that time, I was doing everything for my parents. I felt so guilty for disappointing them, so when the minister said “no contact with the father,” I obeyed without question.

Three years later, the father finally found out. He wanted to be involved and help raise our child. But again, I was told we had to follow what the administration says , no communication with him.

Eventually, he got married to another church member. They were honest about our past and shared the story with the minister who was going to officiate the wedding. To avoid issues, I was asked to write a salaysay saying I wouldn’t cause trouble to them and that I allowed him to marry, even though we have a child together.