Latest news with #NationalDisabilityRightsWeek
GMA Network
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
Michelle Dee graces Autism Society Philippines' art exhibit opening as special guest
Michelle Dee graced the formal opening of Autism Society Philippines' (ASP) art exhibit as a special guest. According to Athena Imperial's report in "24 Oras" Friday, the Artismo art exhibit is ASP's cultural and arts platform that gives individuals on the autism spectrum the opportunity to showcase their artworks. "This is a lifelong mission for me. I'm truly inspired by every individual on the autism spectrum and I have two siblings of my own kaya napaka-importante po talaga na patuloy ko ipaglaban 'yung mga kinakailangan nila," the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 and Sparkle star said. "Not just on the surface level, but really try to dial in on the solutions that we can offer them," she added. The opening of the art exhibit coincides with National Disability Rights Week, which is held annually from July 17 to 23. Through Artismo, individuals with autism are able to express themselves creatively. The ASP is also able to raise funds for its programs, while giving the artists the opportunity to earn money. Michelle has long been an advocate for autism awareness, even before she started her pageant journey. Back in 2019, prior to representing the Philippines at the Miss World pageant, she shared that her two siblings with autism were the ones who inspired her to pursue this advocacy. She also pushed for autism awareness, acceptance, and inclusivity when she vied for the Miss Universe crown in 2023. At the international pageant, she was among the contestants who won the Voice for Change award, which comes with a cash prize for their chosen charity. In 2024, she was honored with the Hans T. Sy Leadership Award by ASP for her advocacy in autism awareness. In the same year, she got to donate her Miss Universe Voice for Change award, worth P684,000, to ASP. Aside from her advocacy work, Michelle is also busy with her music and acting career. Per the "24 Oras" report, she is set to release a new single soon following the success of "Reyna." She will also grace the "Sang'gre Experience" fan event on Sunday, July 20, in Cubao, Quezon City, after starring in "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang'gre" as Hara Cassandra. —CDC, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
16-07-2025
- GMA Network
PWDs get free MRT rides from July 17 - 23 on Disability Rights Week
Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) will enjoy free rides on the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) from July 17 to 23, 2025 in celebration of National Disability Rights Week, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced Wednesday. The free rides will be available during the MRT-3's peak hours: from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, and from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This initiative aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. to ease the cost of transportation for passengers and recognize significant national observances. 'All PWDs need to do is present a valid PWD ID to station personnel at the service gate to avail of the free ride,' the DOTr said in a statement. Outside of the designated free ride hours, PWDs, as well as senior citizens, may still avail themselves of the 50% fare discount, which remains in effect starting July 16. The MRT-3 management reiterated its commitment to providing inclusive and accessible public transport services for all sectors, especially the vulnerable. The week-long observance of National Disability Rights Week celebrates the rights, contributions, and empowerment of Filipinos with disabilities and aims to raise awareness on the need for equal opportunities across all sectors of society. — Sherylin Untalan/RF, GMA Integrated News
