Christenings are part of our religious lives, where we accept the duties of being role models and supporters of a child as he or she grows up. It symbolizes our friendships or bonds with other families, making them part of our own through the sacrament of baptism.
The last time I was honored by being invited to be a godmother was a few months ago at the St. Joseph parish here in Laoag City. It was the Christening of Gian Carlo, the fifth child of my Manong Pablo Valdez whose father served as my "yayo" while growing up in Manila. My very close friends in high school and college would remember my "yayo" as Manong Tetet, and would understand why I treat Manong Pablo as my own brother.
I don't mean to be smug by saying I do not accept all invitations to be a 'ninang'. I only accept those that I feel I am worthy of--- meaning those kids whom I may positively influence through example or through whatever help I could extend to their parents in relation to my godchild's upbringing. Those whom I barely know or have ill feelings against, I really cannot accommodate. But those whom I realize have been tied to my life from the very beginning, I embrace warmly. I hold these children close to my heart whatever the tides may bring. Here is Carlo with this sisters (L to R) Ansherina, Pelagie, and my daughter Rocio. 
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