BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The Autism Hearts Philippines has collaborated with the Baguio Museum to launch the Yakap Sining 2025 Exhibit on April 5 in continuing efforts to foster inclusivity in Baguio City.
The exhibit at the Baguio Museum features the artworks of 12 talented autistic artists in Baguio City which were created during their art therapy sessions.
With the World Autism Awareness Month theme, “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” the activity aims to create awareness, promote acceptance, and strengthen support for neurodivergent individuals while ensuring their inclusion in efforts to achieve the SDGs.
Yakap Sining 2025 also aims to help autistic individuals explore, foster, and showcase their talents through artistic expression. It serves as a platform for bringing out their full potential while providing them with an opportunity to generate revenue.
Samuel Aquino, head of the Baguio City Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO), emphasized the importance of integrating individuals with autism spectrum disorder into society as part of fostering inclusivity in Baguio City.
“We acknowledged, we accepted, and at the same time, we appreciated every essence of expression, even in the form of art. With these children with intellectual and learning disabilities due to autism spectrum disorder, this event gives them a way, as we call ‘home sweet home,’ that they are part of the society in terms of being inclusive especially here in Baguio. As we celebrate this special day, we also commend their being creative. And as a community, we are also building a place for them,” Aquino stated.
Hiyasmin Zambrano, mother of one of the featured artists, expressed her aspiration to provide autistic individuals with equal rights and opportunities, and to help integrate them into society by showcasing their unique contributions.
“There are some of them na baka kaya magsulat o kayang gumawa ng news, ayon sana ‘yung goal ng activity na ito—ma-integrate sila sa community at hindi lang lagi silang nasa bahay nila. Iyong anak ko, mag-isa lang siya, very isolated, hindi siya friendly, hindi siya sociable pero dahil dito mas nagco-communicate na siya at nag-aaral na siya,” Zambrano said.
Advocates and families of autistic individuals hope for a better and more inclusive community that will empower these individuals.
“We wish that the community becomes a better world for children who are neurodivergent, for children who are different but no less, not less. Maybe different, but not less. Gaya po ninyo at gaya ko ay pwede rin silang mamuhay kasama natin sa community. Ayon lang po ang wish namin: go beyond awareness — sana ay may understanding, love, compassion, and acceptance,” Zambrano said.
The public can view and purchase the creative works until April 27, 2025. (JDP/DEG/Carolyn Ventura – PIA CAR-DMMMSU Intern)
