SUNDAYS at the SM City Cebu activity center are usually filled with cheers from spectators trying to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars performing on stage.

But unlike the usual celebrity lineup, the crowd’s cheers and applause on Sunday, April 7, were for “extra special” guests.

Eight students with special needs from four different schools did not only wow the audience with their song and dance presentations, but they also took home awards during the 2019 Mr. and Miss AdmirAble (admirable and able) pageant.

Spearheaded by the University of San Carlos Special Eduction (Sped) Student Organization, the pageant aims to promote inclusion and raise awareness.

Jana Belle Rojas, the student organization president, said they first started with a fashion show for persons with disabilities, but they decided to turn the activity into a pageant to allow participants to showcase their talents aside from parading products of local designers.

“We champion the rights of students with exceptionality. We were inspired to do this event because we want to redefine beauty and ability. With a pageant, they get to show their personalities, talents and skills. Not everyone thinks they can do it, but we see that they can,” she told SunStar Cebu.

The contestants included Jeric Gica Jr. and Chris Eden Socobos from Cebu Kiddie Center, Robert Jun Watson and Shayne Russel Calog from St. Martin de Porres Special School, Ranzjee Clyton Pahilan and Carmela Bianca Nicanor from Prime Center Foundation Inc. and Francis Lorenz Sy and Jeri Mae Rempillo from the San Nicolas Elementary School Sped Center.

Both crowd darlings, 12-year-old Watson and Calog, 16, bagged this year’s crowns.

Watson also took home awards for Best in Production and Mr. Social Media Sensation, while Calog received awards for Best in Funwear and Miss Social Media Sensation.

Watson and Calog, both the youngest children in their respective families, celebrated their victory with a feast at their favorite fastfood restaurant with family and school personnel

Catherine, Watson’s mother, said seeing the smiles of the audience as they cheered on her son warmed her heart.

“I am so happy because people are supporting my son even though they don’t know him personally. I am very proud and I encourage other parents to let their kids join this kind of activity,” she said.

Calog, on the other hand, was flanked by her sisters who pampered her with congratulatory words at the end of the activity.

“We’re very supportive of our princess. I hope other families will not hide their members with special needs because they are worthy of love and respect. We should not be ashamed of their uniqueness,” said Shekinah, Calog’s elder sister.