For many fathers, seeing their children grow up comes with a bittersweet mix of pride and longing—something that singer-entrepreneur Miguel Escueta is currently experiencing with his daughter Callie.
In an exclusive interview with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) held on the sidelines of the press launch of his album Stand In The Fire at Pandan Asian Café in Quezon City on May 26, 2026, Miguel opens up about the emotional realities of fatherhood now that Callie is nine years old.
"When I think about it now, parang, siyempre, heartbreaking di ba?
"Because they grow up so fast. She's nine years old now, but parang kailan lang, she was one, two years old."
As Callie grows older, Miguel admits that certain thoughts naturally cross his mind, like the idea of his daughter eventually developing a crush.
While it may be something many dads feel uneasy about, Miguel takes a more grounded and values-driven approach.
Instead of focusing on fear, Miguel believes in preparing Callie for the future by instilling confidence and self-worth—qualities he hopes will guide her when the time comes.
Miguel says: "Of course, that crosses my mind and it... it's so important for us to build her up and nurture her the right way and have high self-esteem and confidence in herself...
"Because I think that will equip her to make the right relationship decisions when the time comes. Hopefully later rather than sooner."
Read: How Miguel Escueta brewed success of Frank & Dean
MIGUEL ESCUETA: FATHER’S DAY REALIZATIONS
With Father’s Day approaching, Miguel also reflects on what he considers his greatest realization as a parent: the importance of being truly present.
He explains that being physically there isn’t enough—what matters more is emotional connection and intentional time spent together as a family.
"I think my, my biggest realization as a dad is the importance of being present and emotionally available, in my case, to my daughter."
For Miguel and his wife, Laia, this means setting aside gadgets during family time, creating a space where they can fully connect with each other without distractions.
Miguel continues: "It's not just about being together but being present together.
"Cause sometimes, di ba, your mobile phone's very distracting. You're together but you're texting, you're scrolling.
"And what Laia, my wife, and I try to live is that when we're together, spending time together, no gadgets so that we can be present for each other and, and truly be in the moment.
"I think that's the most important thing I've learned as a dad."
Another parenting principle Miguel strongly believes in is what he calls “respectful parenting,” which focuses on communication rather than punishment.
Instead of resorting to physical discipline, Miguel and Laia choose to guide their daughter through proper understanding and open dialogue.
"I think every generation tries to improve, right? Our parents did the best they could and we are doing the best we can based on our experiences and what, you know.
"So I think, we follow something called 'respectful parenting.' And it's our decision, na we don't wanna spank or do disciplinary.
"It's more of, di ba, communicating properly and making them understand. And that's our style. Your style is something else? That's okay. But that's how we try to attack parenthood."
For Miguel, parenting is an evolving journey—one shaped by both past experiences and present choices.
As he continues to navigate fatherhood, one thing remains clear: his focus is on raising Callie with love, confidence, and open communication—while cherishing every fleeting moment of her childhood.
READ MORE: