Smokey Manaloto Gets Real About His Son's Autism: 'The Small Things Mean a Lot'
Veteran actor Smokey Manaloto opened up about one of the most personal chapters of his life — raising his son Kiko, who has been diagnosed with autism. Speaking on 'Fast Talk with Boy Abunda' on Thursday, Smokey shared how the diagnosis completely changed his perspective on parenting.
'Every milestone — napapansin ko na 'yung ibang tao, they take for granted the small things their kids do. Pero for a parent who has a kid under the spectrum, the small things mean a lot,' Smokey said. He shared how his son learning sign language — mastering the entire alphabet — was a huge deal for their family.
Smokey got emotional during the interview, admitting it's still hard to talk about. 'I really, really love my kid kahit na ano pa siya,' he said. It's clear that Kiko has become the center of his world in ways he never expected.
The actor also talked about becoming a first-time father at 51 — something he called a 'welcome accident.' He'd always wanted kids but never found the right partner until now. 'I can truly say the person I'm with right now is my soulmate,' he shared.
Smokey is set to appear in the upcoming GMA series 'Born to Shine' alongside Zephanie, Michael Sager, and Manilyn Reynes, premiering March 23. But off-screen, his biggest role is clearly being Kiko's dad — and he wouldn't have it any other way.
Source: GMA News
