The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of persons on the autism spectrum disorder. We envision a society where Filipinos on the spectrum become the best of their potentials -- self-reliant, independent, productive, socially-accepted citizens of an Autism-OK Philippines.

15 October 2025

ASP x PSDBP: BUILDING ON YEARS OF COLLABORATION

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) left a meaningful mark at the PSDBP Biennial Convention, held at The Space at One Ayala in Makati, on September 3–4, 2025. Celebrating 25 years of developmental pediatrics, the convention gathered professionals, advocates, and community leaders centered on advancing care, compassion, and inclusive practice. ASP trustees were on-hand to show institutional support to partners who have been instrumental in providing early diagnosis and care for children on the autism spectrum.

The image shows Ms. Mona Veluz doing an interview. The photos background shows nine people in Pancake House.


The convention opened with a powerful, multi-lingual prayer led by a diverse group of partners, among whom was ASP Chair Emerita Dang Koe. Her participation set a tone of unity and inclusive intention behind the event. ASP’s presence carried through the program. Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National Spokesperson and Country Manager of the Autism Works initiative, joined a panel focused on adult transitions—highlighting the often-overlooked phase of life beyond childhood, and underscoring systemic support needed for success and independence.

The ASP AutisMALL pop-up shop, staffed by committed ASP HQ team members and members of the ASP Self-Advocacy Circle, showcased a range of unique merchandise for and by persons on the spectrum. The booth stood as a tangible example of economic inclusion, where participants could celebrate creativity, entrepreneurship, and visibility.

The PSDBP’s full scientific program covered a range of child-focused development and inclusive care topics. The event reinforced that inclusive care must extend to all stages of life and all community roles: as patients, professionals, entrepreneurs, and advocates.

The ASP wove the autism-inclusive narrative into the fabric of the convention. ASP’s participation sent a clear message: autism inclusion is central to building responsive, compassionate healthcare systems for today and tomorrow.

14 October 2025

ASP FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FOR OCTOBER 2025

Date: 25 October 2025, Saturday
Time: 10:00 AM
Register here to get the Zoom link: https://bit.ly/4qeuxdW
Registration deadline: 24 October 2025, Friday at 12 noon

The Autism Society Philippines’ Family Support Group sessions bring together parents, siblings, and other family members to share their journey of living with autism. Participants exchange experiences, drawing strength and insight from others facing similar challenges.
 
The image shows four in a family. They all wear white shirts and a little boy wears blue shorts. The background is white. There are two moderators named Dame Barbosa and Love Joy Alburo shown at the left side.

The Autism Society Philippines, together with this month’s host, ASP Muntinlupa, welcomes both members and non-members united by the shared experience of autism. Our goal is to educate, empower, and inspire as we work towards building an Autism-OK Philippines.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
If you have not received your Zoom credentials by 1:00 PM on 24 October 2025 (Friday), please email us at autismphils@gmail.com.
Please do not share your Zoom link. Only one device per registered name will be accepted.

Our Moderators:

Anna Dame M. Barbosa is a dedicated advocate who previously served as an ASP National Trustee. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Colegio de San Juan de Letran and has professional experience in customer support across both private companies and government agencies. Currently, Anna Dame serves as the ASP AUdventure Program Manager and is also a co-host of ASP PweDay, actively contributing to the organization's advocacy and outreach efforts..

Love Joy Alburo is a dedicated community volunteer in Muntinlupa, actively supporting programs for individual on the spectrum. Passionate about inclusion and empowerment, she continues to help raise awareness and create opportunities for individuals with special needs..

09 September 2025

ASP X DOHTONBORI PARTNERSHIP THRIVES

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) conducted two workplace sensitivity trainings for the Japanese casual dining chain Dohtonbori Philippines in September 2024, at the company’s headquarters in Pasig and at its SM North EDSA branch. A total of 30 crew members, fondly called “buddies,” joined the sessions alongside the HR team.

The image shows a group of Dontonbori people with Country Manager Mona Veluz.

These trainings were designed as practical workshops, simulating real-life customer situations and everyday restaurant interactions. The Dohtonbori crew welcomed the coaching from ASP Autism Works Country Manager Mona Magno-Veluz, knowing it would equip them to support their teammate on the spectrum better and, more importantly, strengthen their culture of looking out for one another.

This is another milestone in ASP’s long-standing partnership with Dohtonbori Philippines, which began in 2017. From the beginning, the brand has opened its doors to Filipinos with autism, creating jobs in a fast-paced industry where teamwork and service matter most.

In a customer-facing industry, sensitivity training ensures that employees on the spectrum are supported. Co-workers are trained to understand autism and respond with compassion — from recognizing sensory sensitivities to giving clear instructions. This improves morale, strengthens team bonds, and reinforces a service culture that customers can feel.

Businesses that embrace disability inclusive hiring gain employees who are loyal, detail-oriented, and capable of excelling. When a restaurant like Dohtonbori demonstrates a genuine commitment to diversity, it earns trust and goodwill, not only from families who live with autism but from the broader public who value companies with heart.

The journey toward inclusive employment is not one a business should take alone. Success comes from partnering with the right organizations — those who understand both the lived realities of autism and the operational needs of companies. The Autism Society Philippines has been that bridge for countless partners, from retail to food service to technology.


08 September 2025

ASP FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FOR SEPTEMBER 2025

Date: 13 September 2025, Saturday
Time: 10:00 AM
Register here to get the Zoom link: https://bit.ly/47zCvaG
Registration deadline: 12 September 2025, Friday at 12 noon

The Autism Society Philippines’ Family Support Group sessions bring together parents, siblings, and other family members to share their journey of living with autism. Participants exchange experiences, drawing strength and insight from others facing similar challenges.

The Autism Society Philippines, together with this month’s host, ASP Cebu, welcomes both members and non-members united by the shared experience of autism. Our goal is to educate, empower, and inspire as we work towards building an Autism-OK Philippines.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
If you have not received your Zoom credentials by 1:00 PM on 12 September 2025 (Friday), please email us at autismphils@gmail.com.
Please do not share your Zoom link. Only one device per registered name will be accepted.

The image shows three in a family. There are two moderators named Ms. Jane Gonzales and Carlina Roa shown at the left.


Our Moderators:

Jane Ann S. Gonzales is a retired public servant and mother to a young adult on the autism spectrum. Formerly affiliated with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, she is currently the Program Director and Co-Owner of ILLC Davao Inc., a school that champions inclusive education, job readiness, and work placement. She helped establish the ASP Davao Chapter in 1995 and has since served as a resource speaker on autism parenting and advocacy.

Carlina "Babylin" Roa is the mother of Kalvin, a young adult on the spectrum who has been enriched through the ASP Autism Works economic empowerment program. A licensed Civil Engineer, Mommy Babylin found her true passion in Special Education and Counseling. She is the co-founder of Kite Strings Developmental Center, which supports those with developmental delays and guides families on their journeys.

20 August 2025

ASP LEADS SENSITIVITY TALK AT DOTR DISABILITY TRAINING FOR BUS FRONTLINERS

A sensitivity training aimed at strengthening disability awareness and inclusive practices in public transport was launched on 17 July 2025 by the Department of Transportation – Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT), in partnership with SM Cares and various disability organizations.

A key highlight of the training was the participation of the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), represented by Chair Emerita Erlinda Koe, a long-time advocate for autism inclusion. Koe delivered a focused session on autism sensitivity and response, equipping bus frontliners and law enforcers with critical insights into the unique needs of individuals on the autism spectrum. She was joined by autism self-advocate Mark Pampolina, who lent his perspectives to the animated discussion.

Her talk emphasized the importance of empathy, clear communication, and non-threatening behavior when assisting commuters on the autism spectrum. She also shared practical response strategies for high-stress situations that may involve individuals with invisible disabilities—crucial knowledge for EDSA Busway drivers, conductors, and transport personnel.

The broader training event sought to deepen the understanding of the rights and needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the context of public transportation. It aimed to ensure that frontline staff could provide compassionate, informed, and equitable service to all commuters, regardless of disability.

Participants included DOTr-SAICT staff, transport organization representatives, and key personnel from the EDSA Busway system. Topics ranged from disability rights and legal mandates to hands-on guidance for assisting individuals with various physical, sensory, and developmental disabilities.

Organizers stressed that true inclusion in transportation goes beyond infrastructure—it requires awareness, respect, and responsive action. The event underscores DOTr’s commitment to aligning public transport systems with national disability laws and international standards on inclusive mobility.

The iamge shows a group of sensitivity Training with Chair Emeritus Dang Koe.


 
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