The spirit of inclusivity and community came alive as Bacolod hosted its first-ever Autism Awareness Run, dubbed as “Happy Run,” an event that united elite athletes, recreational runners, and families of children with special needs in a meaningful celebration of fitness, acceptance, and advocacy on September 27.
The fun run, which featured 1km, 3km, and 5km races, welcomed children of all ages and physical abilities, showing that the track is a place for everyone. Beyond the race times and distances, the event emphasized compassion, understanding, and support for children with autism and other developmental conditions.
Among the most touching moments of the day was the sight of Kate Ramos, a young participant in a wheelchair. Kate appeared somber before the start of the race, but with the help of her father, Randy, who carefully assisted her from the assembly area to the finish line, her mood transformed. When she crossed the finish line and received her finisher’s medal, Kate’s face lit up with pure joy.
Her mother, Nelanie, was overcome with pride. “I really appreciate activities like this where families get to bond with their children with special needs. Sometimes Kate feels she’s left out because we are always busy with work. She is very happy whenever we get to be together and have fun. That is why I told my husband that we should join, because the joy that we see in our daughter is priceless,” she said.
For Anne Marie Makilan, the event carried even deeper meaning. In tears, she watched her son, Gab, also in a wheelchair, reach the finish line with the help of his father, Jingle. Anne is the founder and owner of the Happy Beginners School of Learning (HBSLI) and the driving force behind the Autism Awareness Run, which she envisioned in partnership with LCF Events PH.
“It makes me very happy to see my son accomplish something and enjoy what he is doing. Our kids who are in the spectrum get hyper and they need to have physical activity, exercise to reduce their hyperactivity. This is also about inclusion—they become part of mainstream society, enjoying what neurotypical kids enjoy doing. This has been my dream: to see him join other children run,” shared Mommy Anne.
The run also became an opportunity for other parents to strengthen bonds with their children. Benson Fernandez, who ran alongside his son, Nighel, said he always looks for activities that contribute to his son’s physical and mental well-being. “It’s a very good feeling seeing him happy. They should be kept busy with worthwhile activities because when they are not busy in activities like this, they get hooked to gadgets,” he shared.
Race Director Andrew Ke Chua Rojo of LCF Events said Magikland was chosen as the venue because it was the perfect place for children to enjoy and bond with their families. He emphasized that the safety of the children was a top priority, noting that marshals underwent sensitivity training before the event so they would know how to properly assist children on the spectrum.
“Children with special needs are close to our hearts because we have a daughter with autism. Exercise is very important for our children with special needs, who are usually hyperactive. Running and other physical activities allow them to put their energy to good use. Also, when kids on the spectrum get to run alongside neurotypical children and seasoned runners, they get to mimic good behavior and discipline,” Rojo explained.
The event venue, Magikland in Silay City, provided the perfect backdrop for a day of fun and togetherness. After crossing the finish line, participants and their families were treated to free carnival rides and an entertaining show, turning the event into both a fitness challenge and a festive family day.
“Happy Run” was made possible through the collaboration of Mister and Miss Teen MassKara, Magikland, Bacolod Lone District Representative Albee Benitez and Dr. Mark Anthony Talatala. Proceeds from the run were dedicated to the HBSLI, a Bacolod-based institution committed to serving students with special needs. The school provides specialized learning programs and activities that develop life skills—including entrepreneurship, creativity, and socialization—empowering students to grow into productive and independent members of society.
Organizers highlighted that the Autism Awareness Run was not just about raising funds but also about raising voices—creating greater awareness of the realities faced by individuals with special needs and their families. By bringing together runners, parents, educators, and supporters, the event reinforced the message that inclusivity and understanding must go hand in hand with action.
With the success of this inaugural run, organizers and supporters expressed hope that the Autism Awareness Run will become an annual tradition in Bacolod and nearby cities—one that not only builds healthier communities but also nurtures a more compassionate society. They also intend to expand the coverage of the activity to include other sports, such as swimming, to provide more opportunities for children with special needs to participate, enjoy, and showcase their abilities.*
