McCoy De Leon urges respect for persons with autism in honor of brother Marcus: ‘Hindi po sila katatawanan’
Actor McCoy De Leon has spoken out against the mockery of people on the autism spectrum, emphasizing that their differences should never be used as material for jokes or online entertainment.
His message comes amid online backlash over remarks made by a host of the Machong Chismisan podcast about Josh Aquino, the eldest son of Kris Aquino.
In an Instagram post, McCoy shared his perspective as the older brother of Marcus, who is also on the autism spectrum.
“I’m a proud brother of a very loving, kind hearted, and always smiling Kuya Marcus and I will always be proud of him,” he began.
While acknowledging that he may have joined the discussion later than others, McCoy said he wanted to speak about an issue that hits close to home. In his post, he emphasized the importance of speaking up rather than allowing such remarks to become normalized.
“I admit whenever I hear jokes about people on the autism spectrum most of the time I just stay silent. Pero ngayon I realized po that we should never allow these kinds of jokes to become normal. Sana po maging mas mindful tayo. Their differences should never be turned into jokes or content just for entertainment.”
The actor added that although he is not usually vocal about personal matters, he cannot stay quiet when it comes to protecting his family.
For McCoy, his brother’s place in their family goes far beyond what others might see or understand. He explained that people on the autism spectrum can bring immeasurable love and meaning to the lives of those around them.
“Some people may think they don’t contribute much to their families. Pero sa totoo lang po, sometimes they give more than we could ever imagine, even more than what we expect from any family member. And I can proudly say that because we have Kuya Marcus in our family.”
Describing Marcus as “the heart” of their family, McCoy said his younger brother has helped strengthen their bond and taught them valuable lessons about caring for one another.
“He has taught us patience, understanding, and most importantly, unconditional love,” he shared.
He continued: “Hindi po sila katatawanan. They have feelings, they have beautiful hearts, and they deserve the same love, respect, and understanding as everyone else.”
He urged people to think about the families behind the individuals who become the subject of jokes, especially when such remarks are turned into content for public consumption.
“Sana po, before we make jokes or turn something into content, isipin natin na may pamilyang nagmamahal, nag-aalaga, at handang ipaglaban sila.”
“Let’s stop normalizing jokes at the expense of others. What may be entertainment to some is someone’s loved one, someone’s family, and someone’s whole world.”
Ending his message with a declaration of love for Marcus, McCoy vowed to stand by his younger brother and protect him at all costs.
“I love you, Kuya Marcus. Kuya will protect you kahit buhay ko pa ang kapalit. I’m forever proud and grateful to be your brother. ❤️,” he maintained.