02/08/2026
Punch’s story touched millions of hearts around the world, but I think it touched parents the most.
My mom was one of them.
She would often send me videos of Punch from when he was still struggling and always say, “Nakakaawa si Punch.” As a mother, she couldn’t help but imagine how painful it must be for a child to grow up without parents. Every time she saw my posts about visiting Punch, she would tell me, “I wish I lived closer so I could meet him too.”
That’s why, for Mother’s Day, I invited both my mom and dad to Japan—not just so we could travel together, but so they could finally meet the little monkey who had quietly become part of our lives. My sister also traveled from Toyama to join us, making the day even more special because we were all together as a family.
The moment my mom saw Punch, I could see the relief on her face. He was playing, exploring, and confidently living among his troop. He was no longer the fragile little monkey she had seen in those heartbreaking videos.
She couldn’t stop smiling.
“The most handsome monkey I’ve ever seen,” she said. “His fur is so clean and beautiful. You can really tell he’s well taken care of.” Then she laughed and added, “If Punch were a person, he’d look like a rich kid.”
But then she said something I’ll never forget.
“No matter how well cared for a child is, nothing can replace the love and guidance of a mother.”
And she’s right.
Punch will never know what it feels like to grow up with his own mother beside him. But despite that, he kept going. He found the strength to adapt, earned the trust of his troop, and today he is accepted and living happily with them. Watching him now fills our hearts with hope.
Seeing Punch—and even watching his beloved daddies caring for the troop—became one of the most unforgettable parts of my parents’ trip to Japan.
Sharing that experience with my parents and my sister is now one of my most treasured memories, and I know it’s something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.
Thank you, Punch, for bringing people together in ways none of us ever expected. ❤️🐒
