Empowered, strong, but with a heart. Meet Keri Zamora—First Lady of San Juan City, founder of the Caring Keri Program, wife, mother, and more.

Behind every successful man is a strong woman. Wife to San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, Keri Zamora is more than just a First Lady. As a homemaker, mother, wife, and more, Keri wears many hats, making her a contemporary woman in her own right.

With kindness and empathy foremost on her list, the 41-year old homemaker then founded the Caring Keri Program in October 2019. A complementary arm to her husband’s programs for the people of San Juan, this philanthropic cause is set on improving the lives and protecting the rights of San Juaneño women and children.

Keri’s good heart is paired with an impeccable sense of style, as she carries herself with grace and elegance. To know more about her and her plans for her foundation, I corresponded with her through email in the hopes that her style and words will inspire you, too.

What or who are your go-to brands or designers?

My favorites include JC Buendia, Filip+inna, Charina Sarte, Happy Andrada, Yoya Gueco, and various local brands on Instagram. For my daily outfits, I usually default to loungewear, day dresses, jeans, and sneakers. I haven’t purchased any formal outfits since the start of the pandemic. My last one was from Randy Ortiz.

Who is your inspiration when it comes to fashion?

I’m really loving Zendaya right now. Everything just looks good on her.

Can you tell me about your advocacy?

Since its establishment in 2019, the Caring Keri Program was able to facilitate several family-oriented activities that focus on women’s health, the well-being of teenagers, and [the] protection of the rights of women and children. Since then, we’ve had programs on nutrition, free medical screenings such as pap smears and mammograms and ultrasounds, mental health programs, medical procedures, etc. 

What is your role as the Mayor’s First Lady?

I see myself as Francis’ partner in promoting his programs as much as my own. My focus is not only on my family but also on the needs of our constituents. Helping my husband in overseeing their needs and urgent concerns. Being able to make them feel that we are here for them and [that] we are just a direct message or a text away.

San Juan has a number of historical spots that people are not aware of, can you name a few?

First, there’s the Quirino Mansion. The former President Elpidio Quirino lived in San Juan City—with his house along P. Guevarra Street. The mansion has a stand-alone chapel of its own and the Quirino Family will be opening the chapel to visitors once San Juan City’s Historical Bike Tour begins. 

President Quirino is just one of 6 presidents with residences in San Juan City. More recent leaders who have residences in San Juan City include Presidents Duterte, Arroyo, and Marcos.

Another one is El Deposito. People think the Pinaglaban Shrine is home only to the battle of San Juan Del Monte. In fact, under the Shrine is a huge network of tunnels, which used to be the El Deposito Reservoir. This reservoir was built by the Spaniards and supplied the water of the old Metro Manila. 

It was because of the El Deposito and the El Polvorin that the Katipuneros, led by Gat Andres Bonifacio, tried to wrest away from the Spaniards. The El Deposito is [also] said to be the largest Spanish artifact outside of Spain.

What was your life like during the past two years when COVID-19 hit?

It’s been tough having to take care of myself—being a former cancer patient—and taking care of my family and staff. But also, being able to address the urgent needs and concerns of our constituents here in San Juan [has] kept me busy.

In spite of these challenging times, seeing and experiencing “bayanihan” in our community was truly uplifting—neighbors extending help in any and every possible way, communities and barangays developing sustainable programs to help their residents cope with the effects of COVID, to name a few.  

What advice can you give those who are mentally suffering due to the pandemic?

To try to start a hobby or do something they love to do safely at home. Find time for exercise even if it’s just a few minutes, eat well, hydrate, watch funny movies, and read a good book. Stay connected with friends online.

What kind of support did you give your children during these difficult times?

I try to keep them busy with activities—ranging from art, sports, online movies, and games. I make sure that I am able to answer all their questions and be there for them if they want to talk about anything.

How do you see yourself 5 years from now?

I see myself growing the Caring Keri Program [in order] to be able to reach more people in need.

Photos by Ed Simon

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