BAGUIO, Philippines – As Super Typhoon Pepito (Man-yi) forced the postponement of a much-anticipated Christmas tree lighting, the atmosphere inside The Manor at Camp John Hay remained unshaken on Sunday night, November 17. There, the typhoon, which brought heavy rain and destructive winds in many parts of Luzon, became a metaphor for the challenges faced by those on the autism spectrum and their families. Although the tree lighting was postponed, the evening carried an undeniable warmth of the attendees and the inspiring stories of artists.
That evening, the hotel became a haven of hope as the Autism Hearts Foundation (AHF) pressed forward with its Fashion Arts Autism Benefit (FAAB) fundraising dinner, a celebration of creativity and resilience where young artists with autism claimed center stage. FINISHING TOUCH. A young man gives his work finishing touches.
– Mia Magdalena Fokno/Rappler “We hope to create a society that values diversity and empowers every individual to shine,” said Dr. Erlinda Borromeo, AHF founder. Borromeo, a determined advocate, founded AHF in 2009, inspired by her grandson’s journey with autism.
The FAAB program, which began in 2016, combines art therapy and fashion design to help young people on the autism spectrum discover their creative voices. Partnership Since 2018, the Camp John Hay Group of Companies has been partnering with AHF to raise autism awareness and foster community inclusion. The Manor and Camp John Hay Development Corporation.