Elijah Canlas Talks Love, Learning, and the Ausome Community
Actor Elijah Canlas shares how his role as Jayjay in Keys to the Heart led him to become an advocate for the Ausome community
Elijah Canlas has built a reputation as one of the most promising young actors of his generation, with standout roles in Gameboys, About Us But Not About Us, Sunshine, and Senior High. Beyond acting, he has also been vocal about causes close to his heart, including mental healthMental HealthA person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being, which affects how children and parents think, feel, and cope. Open conversations, regular routines, and timely help from professionals make it easier for and autism awareness.
On April 7, Elijah was recognized for his efforts in championing autism awareness at Araneta City, where he received an award as an Autism Advocate Ambassador at the Autism Advocate Awards 2026.
Where the advocacy began
For Elijah, it all started with preparation.
While working on his role as Jayjay in the 2023 Netflix drama Keys to the Heart, he immersed himself in learning about the autism spectrum—not just through research, but by listening.
“I just wanted to portray it with utmost respect and authenticity,” he shared.
That process quickly became more personal.
As he met families, students, and members of the community, Elijah found himself deeply moved—not just by their stories, but by their sincerity. “I fell in love with the character because of how pure he is,” he said, adding that even his co-stars affectionately called him “Jayjay” on set.
But more than shaping his performance, the experience opened his eyes to the realities many families face—and the conversations that still need to happen.
Elijah’s advocacy naturally connects with another cause he supports: mental healthMental HealthA person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being, which affects how children and parents think, feel, and cope. Open conversations, regular routines, and timely help from professionals make it easier for.
Through his immersion, he saw how closely linked the two are—not just for individuals on the spectrum, but for the people who support them every day.
“It’s a different way of communicating,” he explained. “It’s not always easy for them to be vulnerable.”
He also highlighted the emotional weight carried by parents, guardians, and teachers.
“They go through a lot of mental healthMental HealthA person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being, which affects how children and parents think, feel, and cope. Open conversations, regular routines, and timely help from professionals make it easier for struggles while raising children on the spectrum. It’s all connected.”
It’s a perspective that resonates strongly with many modern families—where care doesn’t stop at the child, but extends to the entire support system.
The work doesn’t stop here
Despite a packed schedule, Elijah is committed to going beyond awareness.
He hopes to spend more time on the ground—meeting different sectors within the autism community, understanding their needs, and helping amplify their voices.
“I’m looking forward to really immersing myself more,” he said. “At the end of the day, we all co-exist.”
For him, normalization starts with visibility, empathy, and everyday conversations.
What the community taught him
If there’s one thing Elijah continues to carry with him, it’s this: everything comes from a place of love.
“They’re rooted in love and authenticity,” he said. “They don’t pretend—they just are.”
He described members of the community as some of the purest people he’s encountered, pointing to their kindness and genuine care for others.
At the same time, he acknowledges the challenges.
From routines to communication, and the unpredictability of daily life, there’s still so much to understand. “Not everything is in our control,” he said. “That’s why the conversation—and the learning—has to continue.”
Frequently Asked Questions
His role as Jayjay in Keys to the Heart led him to immerse himself in the autism community, where he connected with families and gained a deeper understanding.
Elijah points out that both individuals on the spectrum and their support systems—parents, teachers, and guardians—face mental health challenges that need attention and care.
He was named an Autism Advocate Ambassador at the Autism Advocate Awards 2026 in Araneta City.
More on Autism Awareness
BTS’ Suga Co-Authors Autism Therapy Manual: What Filipino Parents Can Learn From Music-Based Therapy
“Second Reading: PASSED!” National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Act, Moves Another Step Forward
More Than Words: How Teacher Joie Supports Neurodivergent Families—At Work and at Home
