Special Children under the Department of Education-Valenzuela’s Special Education (SPED) Program were treated to a whole day of fun as a birthday blowout of actress Kris Bernal yesterday.

The GMA Network contract artist chose to spend her 23^rd birthday with the Valenzuelano special kids despite not being a resident of the city.  “I like special kids, kaya sila po ang napili kong makasama ngayong birthday ko. Dito ko po napiling mag-celebrate sa Valenzuela City dahil gusto ko po ang mainit na pagtanggap sa akin ng mga Valenzuelano sa tuwing bibisita po ako rito. (I like special kids that’s why I’m happy to celebrate my birthday with them. I also chose Valenzuela City because of the warm welcome Valenzuelanos give every time I am here for a visit)” she said.

The Bahay Kalinga ng Valenzuela Grounds was turned into a mini-fair adorned with balloons and various booths of ice creams, candies, shakes and souvenirs were made available for the participants.  There was also a photo booth where everyone had a chance to have their picture taken with their idol.  Kris also signed autographs. 

In exchange of brightening up their day, the special kids treated Kris with special singing and dancing numbers.

City Mayor WIN Gatchalian also joined the celebration to give Kris flowers and a cake. He also gave a plaque of appreciation to Kris as a token of gratitude for choosing Valenzuela City as the venue to celebrate her special day. “Thank you for sharing your blessings with the children of Valenzuela. I believe that what you’ve shared will be returned to you in tenfold. You are always welcome here in Valenzuela City,” he said.

Also joining the celebration is Kris’ fans club “Krispers,” personnel of the Valenzuela City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and some media people. 

Bahay Kalinga (BK) is the city’s half way home which serves as a temporary shelter for street wanderers, foundling children and those recovering from any form of abuse.

Instead of wishing for herself, Kris uttered a wish for the special children present.  “Wish ko po sa mga special kids na mahanap nila ang happinesssa sarili nila at sa pamilya nila at makapagbigay din sila ng blessingssa iba dahilblesseddinpo sila," she said