Jeff and Mack Fernandez-Williams have created a loving family for their daughters, Maria and Olivia, despite societal challenges in the Philippines.
The couple, who met in 2014 through an international gay website, turned their dream of fatherhood into reality through surrogacy.
A Journey Marked by Love and Determination
Mack, a Filipino native from Ilocos Norte, and Jeff, an American, married in San Francisco in 2015. Their journey to parenting began three years later.
They chose surrogacy as their path to parenthood, welcoming their first child, Maria, in 2019, followed by Olivia in 2022.
It takes a village to raise a child, and we are grateful for the support we've received.
The couple's Facebook page, 2Dads2Daughters, began as a way to connect with family back in the Philippines and now boasts millions of followers.
Jeff believes their rural lifestyle in Pinili, Ilocos Norte, provides a rich childhood experience for their daughters.
- Maria is 7 years old, while Olivia is 3.
- The family enjoys a supportive local community and a positive school environment.
Mack serves as the president of the parent-teacher association at their daughters' Catholic school, emphasizing the importance of community involvement.
Despite facing online discrimination, the couple prioritizes love and openness with their children. They have shared the story of their surrogacy journey with Maria, who is already able to recount it.
Facing Challenges Together
Jeff and Mack navigate the complexities of surrogacy laws in the Philippines, where same-sex parents face legal ambiguities.
Yet, their commitment to raising their daughters in the Philippines stems from a desire for them to embrace their Filipino heritage.
Mack hopes their story inspires other LGBTQ+ couples to pursue their dreams of parenthood.
They emphasize that their family, built on love and respect, is a testament to the possibilities for same-sex couples in a challenging environment.
As their children grow, Jeff and Mack remain dedicated to nurturing their daughters with love and guidance.
Jeff's heartfelt message to his daughters encapsulates their family values: "We love you no matter what happens in life. You are our daughters forever and nothing will ever change that."
Their journey exemplifies resilience, love, and hope for a future where all families are embraced.