Jennylyn Mercado, Dennis Trillo hold fun event for children on the autism spectrum

Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis Trillo brought joy and awareness to families by hosting a fun-filled event dedicated to children on the autism spectrum.

In a report by Athena Imperial on "24 Oras Weekend" on Saturday, the Kapuso couple said that the gathering aimed not only to provide entertainment but also to promote understanding of autism and highlight the importance of community support for affected families.

Dennis and Jennylyn are parents to Alex Jazz, who is on the autism spectrum. Jazz is Jennylyn's son with ex-boyfriend Patrick Garcia.

"Masaya kami na mabigyang saya 'yung mga taong nandito. Makatulong sa kanila. Mabigyan ng awareness 'yung mga taong siyempre hindi pa familiar sa kanila 'yung autism," Jennylyn said.

Dennis, meanwhile, encouraged parents to remain strong and hopeful in supporting their children.

"Pinakamahalaga 'yung huwag kayong mawawalan ng pag-asa, huwag kayong susuko, huwag kayong bibitiw dahil kailangan ng bawat isa 'yung suporta ng magulang," he said.

Grace Luna Adviento, board of trustee of the Autism Society of the Philippines, said having a support system is crucial for parents and families navigating autism.

"Importante na magkaroon sila ng support group. Malaking bagay 'yun para sa mga parents," she said.

Also present at the event was Mika Salamanca, who joined the celebration and introduced her book "Lipad," highlighting that readers from all walks of life can relate to its message.

"Sabi ko nga dati, kahit anong age, kahit anong gender, kahit na anong estado man ng buhay o kahit sino ka, 'yung libro na 'to makakahanap ka ng resonations sa kanya talaga," Mika said.

Aside from Jazz, Dennis and Jennylyn also co-parent Calix, Dennis' son with ex-partner Carlene Aguilar. They also have a daughter together, Dylan.

Jennylyn and Dennis recently starred in GMA Prime series "Sanggang-Dikit FR." —Jade Veronique Yap/MGP, GMA Integrated News