Mr. & Ms. ElyuSPEDtacular 2025 Highlights La Union’s Celebration of Down Syndrome Consciousness Month

By: Zenaida D. Sellem, GPC-PSWDO | Photos By: Rechelle Dulay, PIO | Date: May 6, 2025


Championing inclusivity in the province, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU), through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), held a post-celebration of the National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month on May 6, 2025. The event, held at the La Union Convention Center, was highlighted by the much-anticipated Search for Mr. & Ms. ElyuSPEDtacular 2025.

The celebration brought together 170 participants from various municipalities and highlighted the talents, creativity, and individuality of learners with special needs.

Crowned as Mr. & Miss ElyuSPEDtacular 2025 were Mary Angeline Soriano of San Juan and John Lloyd Garcia of Rosario, who were recognized for their confidence, poise, and inspiring presence. The pageant served as a platform to empower Persons with Disabilities and promote greater visibility and acceptance of the Down syndrome community.

Aside from the pageant, the program also featured a sharing of best practices by the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center, led by its Center Head Virginia Sesay. Messages of encouragement were delivered by Mr. Felix Q. Baliclic, President of the Persons with Multiple Disabilities of La Union (PMKLU); and Mr. Nicholas G. Perlas, on behalf of PSWDO Ranilo P. Ipac. Board Member Hon. Maria Rosario Eufrosina “Chary” P. Nisce, through Ms. Elma Marie Caguran, shared a message reaffirming PGLU’s commitment to inclusive development and equal opportunity.

Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David also sent a heartfelt message read by Dr. Eleazar Belgica, reiterating the provincial government’s unwavering support for the PWD community. “Agtultuloy ti progresibo ken nadumaduma nga programa tayo para kadagiti kaprobinsyaan tayo with Disabilities, tapnu magun-od tayo ti inklusibo nga probinsya ti La Union,” she stated.

This meaningful celebration forms part of PGLU’s continuing efforts to build an inclusive and empowering province and community where every person, regardless of ability, is celebrated, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.

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