Various activities at Araneta City aim to raise awareness and support for people with autism
Individuals with autism possess immense potential, just like anyone else. They demonstrate talents across various domains such as art and music, showcasing their ability to excel and make positive contributions to society. By supporting their well-being and providing opportunities, we empower them to lead fulfilling lives as valued members of the community, on par with any other individual.
Increasing awareness for individuals with autism is crucial in our modern society. To champion this cause, Araneta City has partnered with several organizations, including the J. Amado Araneta Foundation, Gateway Gallery, the Philippine Association for Citizens with Developmental and Learning Disabilities (PACDLD), National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Autism Partnership, Pasig City Children with Disability under Parent Federation Inc., GS Option House and Learning Center, Association for Adults with Autism, Philippines, Autism Hearts Foundation, and the National Council of Disability Affairs (NCDA). Together, they are hosting a series of events to commemorate the 17th U.N. World Autism Awareness Day this year.
From April 1 to 8, the City of Firsts will host various events under the global theme “Moving from Surviving to Thriving.”
Showcase of artistry
For World Autism Awareness Day 2024, all four malls within Araneta City will host inspiring art exhibits featuring the remarkable works of individuals with special needs.
Two malls will feature solo art exhibitions showcasing the talents of exceptionally gifted individuals with autism. At Gateway Mall 1, visitors can explore “Spectrum: An Art Exhibit by Gabriel Clar San Jose” from April 1 to 8, highlighting the artistic prowess of San Jose, a student of Autism Partnership Manila who has been actively participating in art exhibitions to showcase his skills. Meanwhile, Gateway Mall 2 will present “Embracing Artism: The Art of Vico Cham” from April 2 to 8. Cham, a Filipino visual artist, was honored with the Apolinario Mabini PWD of the Year Award in 2015 and gained recognition at the 2019 Paralym Art World Cup in Japan.
Additionally, two malls will host group exhibitions. Ali Mall will feature playful art pieces created by students of GS Option House and Learning Center from April 2 to 8, showcasing creative collages on bottles and tote bag art. At Farmers Plaza, visitors can witness a unique perspective on nature’s beauty as children from the Pasig Children with Disability under Parent Federation display smartphone photos capturing various flora and fauna from April 1 to 5.
D-Day activities
On April 2nd, the official date designated by the United Nations General Assembly for World Autism Awareness Day celebrations, several meaningful activities will unfold.
At Gateway Gallery, a special consultative dialogue will convene between partner organizations and parents of children with autism. This event provides a platform for individuals to connect, exchange experiences, and glean insights from experts in the field. Participating in the dialogue are representatives from PACDLD, Autism Hearts, Angels Learning and Therapy Center, Association for Adults with Autism Philippines, and Autism Partnership.
Following the dialogue, the Autism Advocate Awards will be presented, honoring the exemplary efforts of advocates dedicated to serving individuals with autism. Ten remarkable individuals from diverse backgrounds will be recognized for their outstanding contributions to the cause.
As dusk approaches, the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum will illuminate in blue at 6 PM, symbolizing World Autism Awareness Day. The Big Dome will serve as a beacon of understanding and acceptance for individuals with autism and their families, emphasizing the City of Firsts’ commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity.
Marjorie Go, Assistant Vice President for Marketing of Araneta City, expressed the significance of these initiatives: “Through these activities, we aim to initiate discussions, dispel stereotypes, and cultivate a more inclusive and supportive society for all. Araneta City stands as a place that embraces and celebrates everyone, and through these efforts, we hope to inspire greater acceptance and awareness towards individuals with autism, recognizing the challenges they face and our collective role in supporting their integration into society.”
