Throwback event: ARTISMO 2015

Vell's notes:

"After my winning stint to both Paligsining ng mga Batang May K" and "Kundiman sa Makati" winning first places, I was once invited by the Autism Society of the Philippines via phone call by Tita Peng So while having my grocery at Landmark discussing also my appearance to sing Lupang Hinirang for the official ASP's Audio Visual Presentation for the National Anthem. She also told me that they've heard that I've won in the Kundiman contest in Makati.
Speaking of Artismo, I was once tapped by the Maam Peng So to sing instead for the Closing Ceremony/Artismo last January 31, 2015. In preparations to this, while in St. Scho Music building preparing for another class, I was already in search and preparing of the 4 Filipino art songs or "Kundiman" we all pinoys called, by recording minus ones of it in a piano accompaniment in which was done by my regular accompanist Ms. Judy Tan and recorded via my tablet and did a mixing touches for my own preferences.
The Artismo event begins,  I got myself fixed up and prepared for the an-hour event, The emcee herself named Maam Lilet Lavina was so happy on my presence and was so happy to hear my singing and my captivating stage presence. As I sang my first song "Mutya Ng Pasig" (my winning piece) I feel myself being a champion and a mega star in my own right. After that, they were in awe and did their standing ovation with much passion and support in which I'm proud of. While the art exhibit showcase began, I sang 3 remaining  kundiman songs "Ano Kaya Ang Kapalaran", "Ang Maya" and "Sa Kabukiran" while they're enjoying the arts of each autistic individuals with a heart of being an artist, painter and a photographer.
From the bottom of my heart, I may be a non regular for ASP but never fails to inspire people with my time and talent. Thanks to ASP Family who believed in me inspite of such challenging roads in the past as an ASP regular. To Maam Peng who never failed to encourage me to perform for the ASP events especially for this formal event in which was my preference as a performer too."

ARTISMO: KULAY AT HIMIG NG AUTISMO 

The National Autism Consciousness Week culminated with "Artismo: Kulay at Himig ng Autismo", celebrating the artistry of young adults with autism at The Podium in Ortigas last 31 January 2015. The Atrium was transformed into an art gallery featuring the visual art of JA Tan, Thomas Perez Diaz and the PWAs of ASP Baguio.

Despite the string of events that week, the leadership of the Autism Society Philippines and supporters came to the event in their Filipiniana best, a fitting honor to the young people with autism who have inspired our 26-year old advocacy.

The autism-inclusive Philippines National Anthem opened the event, followed by a solemn prayer from one of our featured artists Thomas Perez Diaz. Hon. Carmen Zubiaga, NCDA Executive Director, welcomed the guests and gave a perspective on how the week has made an impact not just on the cause of those with autism; but of other marginalized PWDs.

Ms. Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National President then introduced the credentials of the featured visual artists JA Tan and Thomas Perez-Diaz who both garnered a standing ovation from the appreciative crowd. Ms. Vell Baria, a young lady with autism garnered much admiration for her rendition of traditional Filipinos songs. Ms. Lilet Lavina emceed the morning's affair.

The Autism Society Philippines Baguio chapter gave special recognition, not only to their pool of talented photographers; but also the angels who have helped ensure the success of ASP's Colors of A Spectrum Workshop over the years -- Mr. Ompong Tan, Mr. John Chua, Canon Philippines and SM Cares.
The "Artismo: Ang Kulay at Himig ng Autismo" ran from January 31 to February 1, 2015 at The Podium, Atrium.

Date created: 24 February 2015 (http://www.autismsocietyphilippines.org/2015/02/artismo-kulay-at-himig-ng-autismo.html)

Date retrieved: 16 June 2016