Breaking Barriers: The Extraordinary Journey of Ian Apolinario
In a small office in Metro Manila, Ian Apolinario sits with an energy that contradicts any preconceived notions about limitations. His accolades speak volumes: Best International Actor at an Australian film festival, silver medalist in para-sports, “Happiest Pinoy” finalist, and recipient of the Extraordinary Filipino with Disabilities award. But more than his trophy cabinet, it’s his unwavering mission to transform how society views persons with disabilities (PWDs) that truly sets him apart.
From Struggle to Strength
Ian’s journey with polio began in childhood, navigating the physical and emotional challenges that came with his condition. The fifth-floor classrooms at Paco Catholic School—accessible only by stairs—became an early testing ground for his determination. While some might have seen insurmountable obstacles, Ian saw opportunities to prove himself.
“My biggest burden was acceptance,” Ian reflects, his voice steady with the wisdom of someone who has walked through fire. “But I learned to look at the positive side of my condition. I realized I could become a source of inspiration for others.”
The Advocate Emerges
Ian’s transformation from student to advocate wasn’t instantaneous—it was a gradual awakening fueled by education and exposure. Armed with a psychology degree, he began as a job order employee, earning just 3,000 pesos. But that modest beginning opened doors to working with indigenous communities, vulnerable groups, and marginalized sectors.
“That’s where I learned about inclusion,” he explains. “I started reading extensively about disability rights and inclusive practices. It became my passion.”
His career evolved from local NGOs to international organizations, where he spent seven years honing his expertise in disability inclusion. Today, he serves as a motivational speaker, capacity mentor, and training facilitator—roles that have taken him across the Philippines and internationally.
Excelling Against the Odds
Perhaps Ian’s most surprising achievement came when he received an email from Australia: he had won Best International Actor at a film festival. The award recognized his performance in a short film based on his own life story—a meta moment that validated not just his acting ability, but the power of his lived experience.
“I believe in paradise for athletes too,” he says with a laugh, referring to his para-sports achievements. Despite competing against world-class athletes, he secured three bronze medals and one silver in various categories, often outperforming competitors in higher classifications.
His participation in Pilipinas Got Talent, while not resulting in a win, served a greater purpose: visibility. “Even though we didn’t make it past the semi-finals, it was about showcasing that persons with disabilities can excel in areas people don’t typically associate with us.”
The Reality Check: Why Awareness Matters
Despite his accomplishments, Ian remains acutely aware of the systemic barriers PWDs face daily—particularly regarding the 20% discount and 12% VAT exemption mandated by law.
“Not everyone understands how the PWD law works,” he explains, frustration creeping into his voice. “Many establishments think they’re complying by offering a fixed discount—maybe 20 pesos—when they should be calculating 20% off the total bill, then removing the 12% VAT. The difference is significant.”
This isn’t just about money; it’s about dignity and equal rights. The law is clear and all-encompassing, with no caveats or discrimination based on disability type. Yet implementation remains inconsistent because awareness—and accountability—are lacking.
Three Pillars of Change
Ian identifies three critical areas requiring immediate attention:
Accessibility: Ramps, elevators, and proper facilities aren’t luxuries—they’re mandates. Yet budget constraints and lack of enforcement mean many establishments remain inaccessible.
Inclusion: True inclusion goes beyond physical access. It means recognizing PWDs as capable contributors to society, not objects of charity or pity.
Proper Implementation of Discounts: The 20% and 12% benefits aren’t favors—they’re legal rights that must be correctly calculated and honored.
A Day in Ian’s Life
Balancing roles as actor, choreographer, vlogger, trainer, and advocate might seem overwhelming, but Ian has mastered the art of simultaneous living.
“It’s not really doing everything at once,” he clarifies. “It’s about integration. When I travel for training, I document it for my vlog. When I attend events, I network and advocate. Everything feeds into everything else.”
His schedule would exhaust most people, but Ian approaches each day with purpose. Whether he’s conducting disability sensitivity training for corporations, performing in short films, or speaking at international conferences, the underlying message remains consistent: PWDs are not defined by their limitations.
Breaking Attitudinal Barriers
For Ian Apolinario, the most challenging obstacles aren’t physical—they’re attitudinal.
“I still encounter surprise when I travel,” he admits. “People see me navigating airports, performing on stage, or giving presentations, and their reactions reveal their assumptions about what PWDs can or cannot do.”
These moments of prejudice, however subtle, fuel his advocacy. He’s particularly passionate about changing perceptions within institutions—both government and corporate—where budget allocations for PWD programs remain insufficient despite legal mandates.
Words of Wisdom
When asked what advice he’d give other PWDs, Ian’s response is both practical and profound:
“Don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t do. Discover your abilities and showcase them. You don’t have to stay within four walls. Get out there, participate, contribute. You have value beyond what society might initially see.”
For parents of children with disabilities, his message emphasizes early intervention and opportunity: “Don’t hide your child away. Seek out organizations and programs that can help develop their potential. Your child’s development today secures their independence tomorrow.”
The Legacy
As our conversation winds down, I ask Ian Apolinario about his legacy. He pauses, choosing his words carefully.
“I don’t think of it as leaving a legacy,” he says. “I think of it as creating ripples. Every person I reach, every mind I change, every PWD I inspire to pursue their dreams—that’s what matters. I want people to remember that despite challenges, despite limited support, despite society’s low expectations, Filipino PWDs can excel. We can fly. We can achieve greatness.”
And with that, Ian Apolinario—actor, athlete, advocate, and most importantly, living proof that disability need not diminish possibility—heads to his next engagement, leaving me with a powerful reminder: the only real limitations are the ones we accept.
