ASP Autism Works: Opening Doors for Job Seekers on the Spectrum

Since 2016, the Autism Society Philippines has been helping Filipinos on the spectrum step into the world of work with confidence. Through the ASP Autism Works program, job seekers on the autism spectrum are paired with compassionate and inclusive employers in cities nationwide. So far, we have filled almost 300 positions in 11 provinces with talent on the autism spectrum.

For Applicants. If you have been formally diagnosed with autism, are 18 years old or older, and have the right skills and behaviors to take that first step toward employment, we’d love to hear from you. Simply send an email to autismphils@gmail.com with your resume and a short introduction about yourself and your work aspirations.

The application must come directly from you -- and not from a parent, teacher, or therapist. This is important. ASP believes in your right to choose your own path.

After we receive your application, you will be scheduled for a "getting-to-know-you" call, during which we will determine the best way to support you. The applicant, a parent or family member, and an interviewer from ASP will attend this call. The interview queue is quite long, so we appreciate your patience!

For Employers. If you're an employer who wants to build a workplace where everyone can thrive, we invite you to reach out as well. Please drop us a line at the same email address to schedule a discovery call with the ASP team. We’ll walk you through how your organization can become a champion for inclusion.

2025 Outlook. This year, we are filling positions in the private sector for various back-end administrative positions in finance and IT. We are also filling frontline roles in service-based enterprises, including supermarkets and retail dining establishments.

Over the years, the program has expanded beyond traditional employment. Today, ASP Autism Works also supports entrepreneurship, freelance work, and financial literacy, because there is no one-size-fits-all approach to success.

Together, let’s build a future where people on the autism spectrum are accepted, accommodated, and appreciated.

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Posted in: 4pwas,aworks

What Voters on the Autism Spectrum Need

This article was initially published online by Rappler on 25 June 2025.

As someone who has long advocated for the dignity of Filipinos on the autism spectrum, I viewed the recent national elections through a unique lens — not just as a voter, but as a parent, and as an ally of a community that is far too often overlooked. The participation of adults on the spectrum in the electoral process is a powerful statement. It disproves the tired stereotype that they live in their "own world." On the contrary, they care, they show up, and they want their voices heard.

Our political landscape is a noisy one. Even before the official campaign period began, social media had become a battleground of slogans, memes, and commentary. Filipinos passionately analyze candidate interviews, pick apart platforms, and share videos that stir national pride. Yet amid the noise, there is a deafening absence of candidates with a strong background in serving the disability community and a lack of platforms that address their needs.

It is not enough to say that people with disabilities were left out of campaign speeches. Worse, in recent years, the very language of politics has become a breeding ground for ignorance and disrespect. Words like “bobo,” “lutang,” “autistic,” and “special child” are tossed around as insults — weaponized in partisan skirmishes, normalized in everyday banter. These slurs reinforce damaging stereotypes and deepen the alienation of people already marginalized by society.

Despite the noise, the stigma, and the barriers, many adults on the autism spectrum cast their votes last May. Some did so independently, lining up at precincts, enduring the crowds, and navigating the process with determination. Family members or caregivers accompanied others, aware of the many ways the voting experience can overwhelm or confuse. But how many more would have voted — could have voted — if our electoral processes were truly disability inclusive?

For many in the autism community, voting is anything but simple. Long lines, sensory-overloading environments, and poorly designed ballots all pose challenges. Add to this a lack of trained poll workers and inaccessible information, and the experience becomes discouraging, if not impossible.

Beyond the physical and procedural hurdles lies a more subtle but equally critical barrier: political literacy. Understanding complex platforms, navigating jargon-filled websites, and watching debates that fail to consider cognitive processing differences. As a result, some vote based on name recall, family preferences, or incomplete information, not out of apathy, but due to a lack of support and accessible resources.

If we genuinely believe in a participatory democracy, then we must act now.

We need universally accessible voter education programs that cater to the needs of the neurodiverse. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) must work with disability advocates to develop accessible, autism-friendly materials. These could include illustrated guides, plain-language versions of platforms, and videos with captions, voiceovers, and visual aids.

We need poll workers trained in autism sensitivity. Kindness and patience go a long way, but training goes further. Poll staff must be equipped to respond appropriately to non-apparent disabilities and to support voters who may need a little extra time or explanation.

We need early assisted-voting and distance-voting options to be proactively promoted for those with disabilities. These are necessary accommodations that uphold the right to vote for all.

We need accessible campaign materials. Political parties and candidates must be held accountable for inclusivity. Platforms should be communicated in clear, simple language. Campaign videos should include subtitles and visual aids to enhance comprehension. Inclusion is not a favor — it is a democratic obligation.

“The measure of a civilization is how it treats its weakest members,” Gandhi once said. I believe the true strength of our democracy lies in how it listens to and uplifts those who have been left out. Inclusion is about extending the reach of participation to everyone, regardless of ability.

I am a mother of three. My eldest is an adult on the autism spectrum. And as I watched the elections unfold, I was reminded that votes are not just choices — they are declarations of hope, dignity, and belonging. I cast mine for leaders who see the unseen, who amplify the unheard, and who understand that disability is not a deficit, but simply a different way of engaging with the world. We owe our fellow Filipinos on the autism spectrum more than accessibility on election day. We owe them a political culture that values their voice, respects their presence, and believes in their capacity to shape our nation.

View in instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJksGRKuMV1/

About the author:

Mona Magno-Veluz serves as the National Spokesperson of the Autism Society Philippines. She is a mom to three kids, with her eldest, Carl, on the autism spectrum. She creates content and talks publicly about history and disability inclusion. Find her on Instagram @mightymagulang.

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Posted in: 4pwas,elections

Family Support Group for the month of June 2025

Date: 14 June 2025, Saturday
Time: 10:00am

Register here to get the Zoom link: zoom registration
The deadline for registration is 13 June 2025, Friday at 12nn.

ASPs family support group sessions bring together parents, siblings, and other family members to talk about their journey in living with autism. Participants share their experiences and draw enlightenment and strength from others going through the same challenges.

The Autism Society Philippines -- together with this month's host, ASP Marikina -- welcomes members and non-members, bound by a common experience that is autism. We aspire to educate, empower, and inspire to help build an Autism-OK Philippines.

IMPORTANT: Send us an email via autismphils@gmail.com if you have not received your Zoom credentials by 13 June 2025, Friday at 1pm. Please do not share your link — only one device per name shall 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..

Dr. Joy Sheelah Baraero-Era, affectionately known as Mommy Joy, is currently serving as the Secretary of the ASP Marikina . She holds a PhD in Philippine Studies from the University of the Philippines Diliman and is a Research Fellow at Far Eastern University in Manila. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a devoted mother to 19-year-old twin boys, Gab and Miggy, who are on the autism spectrum.

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Posted in: 4parents,fsg

ASP ANGELS WALK FOR AUTISM REACHES NEW HEIGHTS

Pasay City, Philippines – The 2025 Angels Walk for Autism, an annual advocacy event organized by the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) in partnership with SM Cares, successfully returned to the iconic SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, May 18, 2025.

This year’s walk in Pasay drew 30,433 registrants, in a powerful celebration that spotlighted the transformative role of art in the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum.

“This year’s Angels Walk is a testament to our community’s enduring spirit and our collective vision for a society that embraces our children’s uniqueness,” shared Lorenzo Sumulong III, ASP National President. “We are grateful for the ever-growing circle of allies that help us sow acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation.”

The Angels Walk for Autism 2025 crowd 

The 2025 theme, “Mahusay. Masaya. Makulay,” highlighted ASP’s ARTismo program and emphasized the importance of creative expression as a tool for communication, sensory exploration, and economic empowerment for persons on the autism spectrum.

Aside from our vibrant community, we were joined by SM executives led by Hans Sy, NCDA Executive Director Glenda Relova, QC Congressman Arjo Atayde, ASP Goodwill Ambassador Michelle Dee, Melanie Marquez, Samantha Panlilio, Ria Atayde, JTC Chair Jaime Cruz, Dohtonbori President Kim Cruz, among many other prominent allies. The leadership of professional organizations like the Philippine Society of Behavioral and Developmental Pediatrics and the Philippine Association of Speech Language Pathologists were also on hand to celebrate with us.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of prestigious awards recognizing individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to autism inclusion and welfare:

• Senator Risa Hontiveros received the HTS Leadership Award for her continued legislative efforts supporting the autism community.

• ARTipolo, a community art advocate group, was honored as ASP Autism Works Partner of the Year for their role in empowering creatives on the spectrum.

• Christian Borromeo, a gifted pianist on the spectrum, received the ASP Autism Angel Achievement Award for Performing Arts, showcasing the incredible talents within the community.

The program also introduced the newly elected ASP Board of Trustees and self-advocate representatives, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to inclusive leadership and representation.

A spectacular talent further underscored the power of the arts in autism advocacy. Performers on the spectrum—Quentin Alvarado, Danica Escasinas, Peggy Geiser, Grey Roxas, Cid Tampo, ASP A-Pop Boys, ILLC All-Star Crew, and Splendio Tritus—shared the stage with celebrity allies such as Gellie de Belen, Janice de Belen, Pepe Herrera, Kai Montinola, Candy Pangilinan, Jade Riccio, SAB, LA Santos, Carmina Villarroel, Vivoree, and the NU Dance Crew. A special appearance by ASP Goodwill Ambassador Michelle Dee further amplified the message of unity and inclusion.

According to Engr. Bien Mateo, SM SVP and Program Director for Disability Affairs, the Angels Walk has grown nationwide. In 2025, Angel Walks for Autism were held across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, including Bacolod, Baguio, Butuan, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Lipa, Lucena, Malaybalay and Tuguegarao. The Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay continued its legacy of hosting the largest walk, following last year’s record-breaking attendance of approximately 22,000 participants.

The successful event was made possible by the support of key partners, including the Mall of Asia Arena, SM Mall of Asia, the National Council on Disability Affairs, RMA Studio Academy, the ASEAN Autism Network, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2025 was more than just a gathering—it was a declaration of purpose, a celebration of potential, and a united step toward building an Autism-OK Philippines where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

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Our new set of Board of Trustees for 2025 to 2027

We would like to thank all the ASP Members who participated in the Nomination and Election of the new set of ASP Board of Trustees from 10 February - 25 April 2025 through online voting.

After canvassing and tallying all the votes from the total of 17 chapters who voted online, we would like to gladly announce our new set of Board of Trustees for 2025 to 2027.

Our new set of Board of Trustees

Adviento, Mary Grace (Quezon City, NCR). Grace advanced the autism advocacy across multiple areas in the Philippines and abroad, as the ASP National President (2009-2012) and as a charter signatory in the creation of the ASEAN Autism Network.

Barbosa, Anna Dame (Antipolo City, Rizal). Anna Dame is the current ASP AUdventure Program Manager and co-hosting with ASP PweDay.

Cheng, Helen Q. (Caloocan City, NCR). Helen develops the capabilities of ASP in e-commerce and inspires economic empowerment in budding artists and entrepreneurs, as the ASP National Program Manager of ASP AutisMALL.

Go, Evelyn O. (Quezon City, NCR). Evelyn ensures the financial growth and sustainability of the society, through no-nonsense financial management and responsible governance, having served as ASP's Treasurer for multiple terms.

Gonzales, Jane Ann S. (Davao City, Davao del Sur). Jane is a founding member/organizer of ASP Davao Chapter in 1995. She serves as a Resource Speaker on Autism in various groups in Davao City, and pioneer in Job Readiness and Work Placement Programs for teenagers/adolescents with ASD in Davao City.

Ofrecia, Maria Joyla N. (San Fernando, Pampanga). Joy is currently the ASP Cluster Governor and MM-Rizal Cluster Head, where She organizes and mentors budding ASP chapters towards good governance and sustainability. She also empowers families in the care and instruction of children and youth on the autism spectrum, as a valuable resource speaker on the ASP Early Detection and Early Intervention Program, ASP Education Committee, ASP HOMEpowerment Program and ASP Speakers’ Bureau.

So, Perlita W. (Angeles City, Pampanga). Peng is currently the Cluster Head of ASP North Luzon Chapters, and she continuously nurtures well-rounded skills, holistic well-being and social connection of children and youth on the autism spectrum, as well as grows our circle of diverse volunteers and corporate partners -- as the Program Manager of ASP PweDay.

Sumulong III, Lorenzo Juan (Antipolo City, Rizal). LJay is a public servant helping the autism community in legal and rights-based engagements, advocating for legislation and policies concerning persons with disabilities, and integrating programs for the enhancement of the physical abilities of individuals on the autism spectrum through sports activities.

Induction of the new set of ASP Board of Trustees will be on 18 May 2025 during the highlights of the ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2025.

Let us support the new set of ASP Board of Trustees as they lead our organization for the next 2 years. More successful projects to come as they lead us to another decade for Autism Society Philippines.

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Posted in: 4public,BOT,election