PARENTS who have children with autism celebrated World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 at Ayala Malls Capitol Central in Bacolod City.
The event, dubbed "Autism Got Radiance," gave the parents of children with autism the opportunity to showcase the talents of their children in various competitions.
The said celebration was held in coordination with Happy Beginners School of Learning, Therakids Learning Academy, and Think Inc.
The schools that have participated in the Autism Got Talent - Solo category are the Bacolod City Sped Center, Don Mariano Elementary School, Victorias Elementary School, and Jack n Jill School.
For the group category, it was participated in by the Happy Beginners School of Learning, Hearthstone Academy, Therakids Learning Academy, Handumanan Sped Center, and Sum-ag Sped Center.
The event was graced by Bacolod City Councilors Pao Sy and Simple Distrito and with the presence of developmental and behavioral pediatricians Dr. Mark Anthony Talatala and Dr. Maricar Alejano, Provincial Health Office Nurse program coordinator Matt Hermano, Rotary Club of Bacolod Central, Alma Gustilo, Ranil Sorongon and Donnalyn Lastima and the JCI.
Talatala said,"The important thing that we have to consider in dealing with children with autism is recognition, acceptance of their existence in our community, and giving them the opportunity to enjoy what the world has to offer. We gave them the opportunity to showcase what they have, the skills that they are capable of, and to show the world and the universe that they can."
He added, "I want to thank the government and the private sector for making this program full of heart for our children. To the parents, take a look at those around you and become familiar with each other, as the lesson that we have learned now is that you guys are not alone. We share the same goal for our children. Thank you for providing your children with their basic needs."*