Jennylyn Mercado And Dennis Trillo Hosted the Sweetest Family Day For Kids with Autism

Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis Trillo proved that love and advocacy go hand in hand as they hosted a special family day for children on the autism spectrum. The couple (who were also our first-ever Cosmo Couple, btw!), together with their 17-year-old son Jazz, welcomed around 50 children and their families to the first-ever "DenJen Family Day" last March 28.

In an Instagram Reel posted on April 3, Jennylyn shared highlights from the fun-filled day, giving a shoutout to the sponsors who made it all possible. The activities ranged from inflatable playgrounds and bubble shows to food carts and souvenir booths, but the heart of the day was in creating a space where families could feel supported and understood.

"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 shared with 24 Oras Weekend. Jazz, her son with Patrick Garcia, is on the spectrum, giving both Jennylyn and Dennis firsthand insight into the joys and challenges of raising a child with autism.

Dennis offered words of encouragement for parents, reminding them to stay hopeful and strong. "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.

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person thinks, communicates, and interacts with others. According to the Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP), about 1 in every 100 Filipinos is on the spectrum—roughly 1.2 million people nationwide.

The event was organized in partnership with the ASP, with board of trustee Grace Luna Adviento, emphasizing the value of community for families navigating autism. "Importante na magkaroon sila ng support group. Malaking bagay 'yun para sa mga parents," she said.

Adding a literary touch to the day, Mika Salamanca gave out copies of her book Lipad, sharing a message that resonates across ages and backgrounds. "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 shared, highlighting the universal appeal of her story.

Jennylyn and Dennis have long used their platform for advocacy, including typhoon relief efforts via StarTRUCK or personal support for various groups that they don't necessarily post about online. The "DenJen Family Day" is a natural extension of their efforts, teaching their children—and inspiring others—about the values of kindness, compassion, and community.

"Mahalaga na magamit namin ang boses namin at ang platform namin para mas mapalawig pa yung adbokasiya at mas maraming tao ang ma-educate sa kalagayan ng mga nasa autism spectrum at kung paano sila pakitunguhan at tratuhin sa ating lipunan," Dennis added.