FEATURE: ‘Dating humihingi ng sampung piso noon. Ngayon nagbibigay na ng libo-libo sa magulang’: Isabela vlogger celebrates birthday by giving back to parents

Delfin Albano, Isabela – An Isabela-based vlogger celebrated his birthday in an exceptional and heartfelt way—by giving back to his parents. Mark Fillord Gumaru, popularly known as Mark Vlog, 26, reflected on how he has gone from “the one always asking” to being able to provide for his family—a moment he described as a testament to gratitude, perseverance, and faith.

Mark, from Delfin Albano, Isabela, is known for content featuring him and his parents, particularly his mother, whom he often pranks by jokingly selling her plants, farm animals, or simply teasing her. Despite his parents’ seemingly “angry” reactions, their playful dynamic has amused viewers online, earning both laughter and heartfelt responses.

However, on March 20, his birthday, Mark shared a video that contrasted with his usual content. In it, he appeared teary-eyed as he revealed that he chose not to celebrate with food or personal purchases, despite his mother encouraging preparations. Instead, he decided to give his savings to his parents.

“Inbagan pay iman ni inang maysa tawen lang met kanu nga maangay ti birthday. Ket kunak aguray tun ta adda kwaarta ta uray inaldaw nga aghanda. Pero hindi nila alam na yung panghanda ko sana ay ibibigay ko nalang sa kanila… ipon ko pala ito—sarap sa feeling guys. Dati pangarap ko lang magbigay sa kanila, ngayon nagagawa ko na,” he said.

Growing up without birthday feasts due to financial struggles shaped Mark’s simple view on celebrations. For his 26th birthday, he bought rice and viand instead. Though hesitant to part with his savings, he felt giving it to his family was worth it.

“… bale yung binigay ko na pera sa kanila hindi naman ganon kalakihan, sakto lang. Yung ibang pera na pang-birthday ko ibinili ko nalang ng ulam at bigas namin. Yung perang yon, inipon ko sya 2 weeks at hindi yun galing sa pag o-online, bale may ibang sideline kase ako. Ayoko talagang galawin yung pera na naipon ko pero sabi ko para naman to sa kanila…inisip ko na lang na mapapalitan naman iyon. Ang gaan ng pakiramdam—nagpapasalamat ako kay Lord, yung dating humihingi ng sampung piso ngayon nagbibigay na ng libo-libo sa magulang,” he shared.

Though not the first time he has given money to his parents, Mark said this birthday gift was one of the most meaningful. Through his story, he hopes to inspire others—especially the youth—to value their parents and give back in any way they can, reminding them that even small acts of appreciation can mean a lot.

“…galingan nyo lang palagi sa buhay balang araw aayon din sa inyo ang panahon at makakabawi din kayo sa inyong mga magulang.”