Dannyka Manangan

Kris Aquino, Martin Nievera, and more stars are proud parents to children with special needs

Article (news)

Alyana De Guzman

Push Team

<p>These celebrities continue to show that beyond their public lives, they are devoted and proud parents to their children with special needs. Through their words and actions, they share how much they value every milestone, while remaining constant in their love, patience, and support for them.</p><div>  </div><div><strong>Martin Nievera </strong></div><p>The Concert King has never shied away from expressing his love for his youngest son, Santino, who is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). As a father, he has often spoken about how his children serve as his driving force. </p><p>As Santino turned 19 last year, Martin reflected on his growth with pride. </p><p>“You are my inspiration along with your brothers Robin and Ram! I push myself to stay alive and work my ass off to hopefully help you three realize your dreams. I believe in you son,” he wrote in his Instagram post.  </p><div><iframe class="instagram-media instagram-media-rendered" id="instagram-embed-10" src="https://www.instagram.com/p/DQrkOjBCb8s/embed/?cr=1&amp;v=14&amp;wp=540&amp;rd=https%3A%2F%2Fod2-workbench-web.abs-cbn.com&amp;rp=%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A10%2C%22os%22%3A6159700.099999998%2C%22ls%22%3A42065.599999997765%2C%22le%22%3A42065.599999997765%7D" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="746" data-instgrm-payload-id="instagram-media-payload-10" scrolling="no" style="background:white;max-width:540px;width:calc(100% - 2px);border-radius:3px;border:1px solid rgb(219, 219, 219);box-shadow:none;display:block;margin:0px 0px 12px;min-width:326px;padding:0px"></iframe></div><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><div><br/></div><div>  </div><div><strong>Kris Aquino  </strong></div><p>For the Queen of All Media, her eldest son Josh, who is diagnosed with ASD, has been a pillar of strength, especially as she continues her health journey. She has consistently shared how both her sons inspire her daily, proving that family remains her greatest source of courage. </p><p>“Kuya, i miss you and i love you so much… you’re where you want to be, surrounded by so many who love &amp; care for you... i’m so proud of you,” she wrote as she greeted Josh for his 28th birthday in 2023.  </p><div><br/></div><div><iframe class="instagram-media instagram-media-rendered" id="instagram-embed-11" src="https://www.instagram.com/p/DQhFA4Kky7I/embed/?cr=1&amp;v=14&amp;wp=540&amp;rd=https%3A%2F%2Fod2-workbench-web.abs-cbn.com&amp;rp=%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A11%2C%22os%22%3A6159767.3999999985%2C%22ls%22%3A42065.599999997765%2C%22le%22%3A42065.599999997765%7D" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="617" data-instgrm-payload-id="instagram-media-payload-11" scrolling="no" style="background:white;max-width:540px;width:calc(100% - 2px);border-radius:3px;border:1px solid rgb(219, 219, 219);box-shadow:none;display:block;margin:0px 0px 12px;min-width:326px;padding:0px"></iframe></div><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><div><br/></div><div>  </div><div><strong>Smokey Manaloto </strong></div><p>The actor recently opened up about his son Kiko’s autism diagnosis on <em>Fast Talk with Boy Abunda. </em>&quot;It&#x27;s very emotional for me to talk about it. Pero, I really, really love my kid kahit na ano pa siya.”</p><p>Through his experience, he learned to celebrate even the smallest milestones. &quot;You truly appreciate the little things na nagagawa ng anak mo. Sa iba, ang liit na bagay na iyon. Pero sa iyo, parang napakalaking bagay na &#x27;yon para sa iyo.&quot;</p><div><br/></div><div><iframe class="instagram-media instagram-media-rendered" id="instagram-embed-12" src="https://www.instagram.com/p/Czph8Ehvhex/embed/?cr=1&amp;v=14&amp;wp=540&amp;rd=https%3A%2F%2Fod2-workbench-web.abs-cbn.com&amp;rp=%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A12%2C%22os%22%3A6159784.799999997%2C%22ls%22%3A42065.599999997765%2C%22le%22%3A42065.599999997765%7D" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="881" data-instgrm-payload-id="instagram-media-payload-12" scrolling="no" style="background:white;max-width:540px;width:calc(100% - 2px);border-radius:3px;border:1px solid rgb(219, 219, 219);box-shadow:none;display:block;margin:0px 0px 12px;min-width:326px;padding:0px"></iframe></div><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><div><br/></div><div>  </div><div><strong>Kris Lawrence and Katrina Halili  </strong></div><p>The former celebrity couple has found common ground in raising their daughter Katie, who has autism. In 2025, the actress admitted that it was challenging, and that sometimes she still feels overwhelmed with the responsibilities. Despite this, Katrina expressed her joy in seeing Katie’s positive progress with the help of music.    </p><p>The former couple have been reunited since January to co-parent their daughter, and both said that they have seen positive changes with Katie. </p><p>“Her smile has been more genuine. &#x27;Yung kilos niya mas gumanda. You could just tell that she’s so much happier. We&#x27;re doing this all for Katie,” Kris said during their guesting on <em>Fast Talk with Boy Abunda</em>.  </p><div><iframe class="instagram-media instagram-media-rendered" id="instagram-embed-13" src="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWvuzgYktCS/embed/?cr=1&amp;v=14&amp;wp=540&amp;rd=https%3A%2F%2Fod2-workbench-web.abs-cbn.com&amp;rp=%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A13%2C%22os%22%3A6160947.699999999%2C%22ls%22%3A42065.599999997765%2C%22le%22%3A42065.599999997765%7D" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="925" data-instgrm-payload-id="instagram-media-payload-13" scrolling="no" style="background:white;max-width:540px;width:calc(100% - 2px);border-radius:3px;border:1px solid rgb(219, 219, 219);box-shadow:none;display:block;margin:0px 0px 12px;min-width:326px;padding:0px"></iframe></div><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><div><br/></div><div> </div><div><strong>Candy Pangilinan  </strong></div><p>Her son Quentin, who is diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and ASD, has been a constant source of happiness as he often joins her in vlogs showing their family life. As a single mother, Candy continues to find joy in raising him and seeing how much he loves dancing, singing, and serving in the church. </p><p>Last year, she shared a glimpse of his simple birthday celebration, writing: “Happy 22nd Birthday to my partner, inspiration, teacher, son, best friend, and ticket to heaven Quentin.”</p><div><iframe class="instagram-media instagram-media-rendered" id="instagram-embed-14" src="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DP2orU1CRfn/embed/?cr=1&amp;v=14&amp;wp=540&amp;rd=https%3A%2F%2Fod2-workbench-web.abs-cbn.com&amp;rp=%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A14%2C%22os%22%3A6161005.8999999985%2C%22ls%22%3A42065.599999997765%2C%22le%22%3A42065.599999997765%7D" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="881" data-instgrm-payload-id="instagram-media-payload-14" scrolling="no" style="background:white;max-width:540px;width:calc(100% - 2px);border-radius:3px;border:1px solid rgb(219, 219, 219);box-shadow:none;display:block;margin:0px 0px 12px;min-width:326px;padding:0px"></iframe></div><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><div><br/></div><div> </div><div><strong>Aubrey Miles and Troy Montero  </strong></div><p>The couple has long been open about their daughter Rocket’s autism diagnosis. In 2025, Troy shared that she has achieved progress after months of treatment, including undergoing stem cell therapy. </p><p>“She is an absolute sweetheart and a Daddy’s girl. She loves singing, doing puzzles, coloring books, and riding her scooter... As the youngest in our family of five, she is undoubtedly the star of our home. We love her endlessly and will always be here to support her.”</p><div><iframe class="instagram-media instagram-media-rendered" id="instagram-embed-15" src="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGpoQKqxpw3/embed/?cr=1&amp;v=14&amp;wp=540&amp;rd=https%3A%2F%2Fod2-workbench-web.abs-cbn.com&amp;rp=%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A15%2C%22os%22%3A6161165.5%2C%22ls%22%3A42065.599999997765%2C%22le%22%3A42065.599999997765%7D" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="881" data-instgrm-payload-id="instagram-media-payload-15" scrolling="no" style="background:white;max-width:540px;width:calc(100% - 2px);border-radius:3px;border:1px solid rgb(219, 219, 219);box-shadow:none;display:block;margin:0px 0px 12px;min-width:326px;padding:0px"></iframe></div><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><div><br/></div><div> </div><div><strong>Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis Trillo  </strong></div><p>Jennylyn continues to openly embrace Alex Jazz, her son with former partner Patrick Garcia, who is on the autism spectrum. Just last March, Jennylyn along with Dennis, gathered around 50 children with autism along with their families for a morning of games and bonding, in partnership with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP). </p><p>“We wanted this event to be a safe space for them and their children where they can have fun and play without worrying about other people judging them,” she said. </p><p>“Kami mismo, walang pinagkaiba sa mga magulang na kasama namin ngayon dito. Pinagdaanan namin kung ano ang pinagdaanan o pinagdadaanan nila. Kaya mahalaga na maiparamdam sa kanila na hindi sila nag-iisa,” she added.  </p><div><iframe class="instagram-media instagram-media-rendered" id="instagram-embed-16" src="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DWoCsgvzlUB/embed/?cr=1&amp;v=14&amp;wp=540&amp;rd=https%3A%2F%2Fod2-workbench-web.abs-cbn.com&amp;rp=%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A16%2C%22os%22%3A6161980.299999997%2C%22ls%22%3A42065.599999997765%2C%22le%22%3A42065.599999997765%7D" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="857" data-instgrm-payload-id="instagram-media-payload-16" scrolling="no" style="background:white;max-width:540px;width:calc(100% - 2px);border-radius:3px;border:1px solid rgb(219, 219, 219);box-shadow:none;display:block;margin:0px 0px 12px;min-width:326px;padding:0px"></iframe></div><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><div><br/></div><div><br/></div><div> <strong>Melanie Marquez  </strong></div><p>Miss International 1979 is a mother of two sons with developmental conditions. Her son Mazeen was diagnosed with autism, while Adam Jr. has developmental delays.</p><p>Melanie’s daughter Michelle Dee has since become an advocate for autism awareness and inclusivity, serving as a Goodwill Ambassador for the Autism Society Philippines. </p><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1778488017866michelle-dee-brothers.jpg" style="width:600px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/></div><div>  </div><div><strong>Ruby Rodriguez </strong></div><p>The former actress-host previously shared that she moved to the United States for the treatment of her son AJ, who has an intellectual disability and was diagnosed with Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP). Before relocating, their family had been traveling back and forth for his treatment. </p><p>Back in December, Ruby shared a birthday message as he turned 21. “My son Aj just know how proud we are of you. You are now a certified young man❤️❤️ I L💕ve you so much, you will be my forever baby!” </p><div><iframe class="instagram-media instagram-media-rendered" id="instagram-embed-17" src="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHhNXq7xNlN/embed/?cr=1&amp;v=14&amp;wp=540&amp;rd=https%3A%2F%2Fod2-workbench-web.abs-cbn.com&amp;rp=%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A17%2C%22os%22%3A6162250.799999997%2C%22ls%22%3A42065.599999997765%2C%22le%22%3A42065.599999997765%7D" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="881" data-instgrm-payload-id="instagram-media-payload-17" scrolling="no" style="background:white;max-width:540px;width:calc(100% - 2px);border-radius:3px;border:1px solid rgb(219, 219, 219);box-shadow:none;display:block;margin:0px 0px 12px;min-width:326px;padding:0px"></iframe></div><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><div> </div><div><strong>Karen Davila </strong></div><p>The veteran broadcast journalist has always been proud of her son David, who is diagnosed with ASD. In 2023, she shared that he started his first year in college at the University of the Philippines under its Fine Arts program. In 2022, he also mounted his first art exhibit. </p><p>&quot;David, you continue to defy limitations &amp; expectations. You are God’s miracle. Thank you Lord Jesus for David 🙏🏻 Thank you for your faithfulness &amp; love,&quot; Karen proudly shared on Instagram.  </p><div><iframe class="instagram-media instagram-media-rendered" id="instagram-embed-18" src="https://www.instagram.com/p/CeN96bjhiKp/embed/?cr=1&amp;v=14&amp;wp=540&amp;rd=https%3A%2F%2Fod2-workbench-web.abs-cbn.com&amp;rp=%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A18%2C%22os%22%3A6162297.3999999985%2C%22ls%22%3A42065.599999997765%2C%22le%22%3A42065.599999997765%7D" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="879" data-instgrm-payload-id="instagram-media-payload-18" scrolling="no" style="background:white;max-width:540px;width:calc(100% - 2px);border-radius:3px;border:1px solid rgb(219, 219, 219);box-shadow:none;display:block;margin:0px 0px 12px;min-width:326px;padding:0px"></iframe></div><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><p>These celebrity parents show that while every journey is different, the love remains the same. Through patience, understanding, and constant support, they continue to stand by their children, celebrating progress, embracing challenges, and finding joy in every step forward.</p>

<p>Several Filipino celebrities are proud to have children with special needs—highlighting love, patience, and unwavering support. </p>

Several Filipino celebrities are proud to have children with special needs—highlighting love, patience, and unwavering support.