Moms and Dads

Like Father, Like Son Series: Gian and Hugo Sotto

by Kevyn Gohu
June 16, 2023

The musings of father and son duo, Gian and Hugo Sotto, tell the story of their relationship and how it has changed over the years.

This story about Gian and Hugo Sotto first came out in Modern Parenting’s special Mother’s Day-Father’s Day 2023 Print Edition available on https://sarisari.shopping/.

When dads have sons, it can entail a lot of pressure for them to ensure their children follow in their footsteps. Yet there are those who enjoy the journey of having to discover who their boys turn out to be as they take strides towards becoming men. Dad-and-son duo Gian and Hugo Sotto have their unique dynamics with each other. But if there is one thing they share in common, it’s the ability to let their parent-child relationships change and evolve with the times. This father and son weigh in with Modern Parenting on how they navigate their growing relationship.

To read the full article, grab a copy of Modern Parenting’s special Mother’s Day-Father’s Day 2023 Print Edition. It’s available on sarisari.shopping. Or you can download the e-Magazine from Readly or Press Reader.

MP: How has your relationship as father and son changed throughout the years?

Hugo: I guess I noticed a change recently because since I have gotten older and have more responsibilities, I started to pick up on what my dad does in his day-today life. In that sense it made me feel more connected and closer to my dad.

MP: How would you describe your relationship and dynamic today?

Gian: Our relationship with God is a big factor because that’s what strengthened my relationship with my family. And as we grow in our faith, we grow in our relationship with each other. We’re able to have more meaningful conversations.

MP: What are things you were surprised to learn about your dad while growing up?

Hugo: I guess it was his values. Usually when he’s working, even if he’s super busy, he always does his best to put the family first, and that’s taught me a lot. It also makes me want to do that as well when I have my own family, and make sure I have time for my family. I was also inspired by the movie “Click” with Adam Sandler.

MP: Similarly, what were the things you were surprised to witness from your kid as he was growing up?

Gian: Being the eldest of six kids, I realize that he is a great kuya. He knows how to deal with each of his siblings. He also values the time we spend as a family. I tell the kids that sa totoo lang, the most valuable thing in life is not money, it’s time. Once you spend time, you can’t get it back. Once naglaan ka na ng oras para sa ibang tao, hindi mo na pwede ibalik yun. So I see that he values how he spends his time sa sports, as studies and with the family.

MP: What’s one thing being a dad to a growing son taught you?

Gian: There are a lot of lessons that I’ve learned. One of the most important is passing on the legacy of your relationship with God. With that, nandoon yung values about time, about being intentional. And as a parent, another lesson I’ve learned is don’t be afraid to admit when you make mistakes. It takes courage
and humility to say, ‘Son I’m sorry’ because they also have to know that nagkakamali din tayo as parents. Lastly, being a dad has taught me you can never say ‘I love you’ enough – especially to your kids. It shows them that no matter what happens in life, no matter what they do, your love for them will never change.

More about Gian Sotto or fatherhood:

Celebrity BLINKs: Celebrity Parents and Kids at the BLACKPINK Concert
10 Relatable Fatherhood Moments in Fast X
QC Mayor Joy Belmonte Puts Mental Health as One of Its Priorities