MANILA, Philippines - As the only daughter, I often get asked if I get to spend some time with my father, Nacionalista Party chair and Senate president Manny Villar.

I grew up seeing my father surrounded by different people?from prospective home buyers during his early days as a businessman to local constituents and fellow legislators as a public servant. One may think that it?s a constant struggle for me to get a slot in my father?s busy schedule.

On the contrary. Despite his seemingly endless meetings, my father never fails to spend time with me and our family. He is truly a family man.

Before starting his day, he makes it a point to have breakfast with us. Together with my mom, Rep. Cynthia Villar, who is also a workaholic like my dad, and my two brothers Paolo and Mark, we talk about anything under the sun, from heavy stuff like the skyrocketing price of oil to the not-so-serious like the latest show biz chismis.

My dad always finds time to call just to see how our day is going. And when a meeting is canceled, he would call to ask if I?m free for lunch or coffee. This is the reason why I?ve developed an unbreakable bond with my dad. He is always there when I need him, no matter how busy he is.

Misconception

Another misconception about my father is that he is a very serious, no-nonsense kind of guy, someone who does not have a funny bone in his body.

Truth be told, my dad has an incredible sense of humor. This shows in our bonding sessions. He?s also a very thoughtful person. When I was still studying in Ateneo, he would make time to pick me up.

Come Valentine?s Day and other special occasions, he always has flowers not just for me and my mom, but for all of his female staff.

My dad is my best mentor. He teaches me and my brothers by example. He reminds us to be hardworking, compassionate, grounded and most important, God-fearing. My dad was born and raised in poverty, hence he stresses the importance of ?sipag at tiyaga? in the achievement of our goals.

Lastly, my dad puts a premium on family. For him, family is the only constant thing in life. To sum it all up, my father is the best dad in the world. He has definitely shaped me into what I am now. Thank you, dad!