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.

23 May 2025

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.

08 May 2025

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.

The image shows ASP National Board of Trustees for 2025 - 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.

10 April 2025

GUIDELINES FOR THE ELECTION OF ASP NATIONAL BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2025 – 2027

To view the final list of candidates for the next batch of ASP Board of Trustees to serve the organization from 2025 to 2027, please click here https://bit.ly/4iWaBZ4.

To vote, one must be a regular active member - with paid membership dues as of 31 January 2025.

Voting Process:
1. Members shall cast their ballot via electronic voting from 10 - 30 April 2025.
2. Only votes by ASP regular members as of 31 January 2025 shall be considered valid. ASP National shall validate active membership based on official records.
3. The new ASP National trustees will be announced on 07 May 2025.

The conduct of the elections shall be based on the ASP National By-Laws. Decisions of the Election Committee are deemed final.

Meet the candidates for ASP Trustees 2025-2027

The Autism Society Philippines will be electing its 11 new National Trustees, who will serve for the years 2025–2027, between 10 April - 30 April 2025.


The Election Committee (Chair Ms. Diana Q. De Ocampo Jr, Co-Chair Maria Cristina A. Borbe and members Abby Mendoza and Angel PeƱaloza) reviewed twenty (20) nominees based on the minimum criteria set in the ASP By Laws. Read the nomination guidelines here: https://bit.ly/nationalnomination2025

Some nominees were not yet qualified, while others declined the nomination, bringing down the nominees to only 8 official candidates. According to the ASP Guideline 22-0055 on Organization Design, Item 6.2.3.3: In the event of board vacancy, the Board of Trustees shall nominate candidates from the pool of active members who meet the criteria for ASP Trustees. Thus, the new board will collectively decide who shall fill up the 11th board trustee.

After the election, the newly-elected board shall also vote internally who will serve on the National Executive Committee as President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Auditor.

Here are the profiles of the final 8 candidates (in alphabetical order) for the ASP National Board 2025-2027; and their qualifications and accomplishments to-date in our autism advocacy. You may fill out your digital ballot here: https://form.jotform.com/210407506499458

Candidate #1: Mary Grace L. Adviento
(Quezon City, NCR)
Last ASP National Position Held: ASP National Trustee
Occupation: Entrepreneur
Education: BS Medical Technology (Our Lady of Fatima College)
Advocacy Accomplishment: 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.

Candidate #2: Anna Dame M. Barbosa
(Antipolo City, RIV-A)
Last ASP National Position Held: ASP National Trustee
Occupation: Customer Support in private companies and government agencies
Education: BS in Psychology (Colegio de San Juan de Letran)
Advocacy Accomplishment: Anna Dame is the current ASP AUdventure Program Manager and co-hosting with ASP PweDay

Candidate #3: Helen Q. Cheng
(Caloocan City, NCR)
Last ASP National Position Held: ASP National Auditor
Occupation: Entrepreneur
Education: BS Commerce (University of Santo Tomas)
Advocacy Accomplishment: 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. She is currently the Program Manager for ASP ARTismo.

Candidate #4: Evelyn O. Go
(Quezon City, NCR)
Last ASP National Position Held: ASP National Treasurer
Occupation: Entrepreneur
Education: BS Food and Nutrition (University of Santo Tomas), MA units Special Education (UP Diliman)
Advocacy Accomplishment: Evelyn ensures the financial growth and sustainability of the society, through no-nonsense financial management and responsible governance, having served as ASP's Treasurer since 2007.

Candidate #5: Jane Ann S. Gonzales
(Davao City, RXI)
Occupation: Retiree, Area Director, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas-Davao Regional Office and Program Director/Co-Owner, ILLC Davao Inc.
Education: BSC Major in Accounting (Ateneo de Davao University), Masters in Public Administration (University of Southeastern Philippines)
Advocacy Accomplishment: 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

Candidate #6: Maria Joyla N. Ofrecia
(CSFP, RIII)
Last ASP National Position Held: ASP National Vice-President
Occupation: Independent SPED Consultant
Education: MA Special Education (Angeles University Foundation)
Advocacy Accomplishment: 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.


Candidate #7: Perlita W. So
(Angeles City, RIII)
Last ASP National Position Held: ASP National Trustee
Occupation: Full-time Homemaker
Education: BS Food Technology (University of Santo Tomas)
Advocacy Accomplishment: 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.

Candidate #8: Lorenzo “LJay” Sumulong III
(Antipolo City, RIV-A)
Last ASP National Position Held: ASP National President
Occupation: Artisan Farmer
Education: BS Sociology (University of California, Davis), BS Public Administration (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila)
Advocacy Accomplishment: 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.

08 April 2025

Family Support Group for the month of April 2025

Date: 12 April 2025, Saturday
Time: 10:00am
Register here to get the Zoom link: zoom registration
The deadline for registration is 11 April 2025, Friday at 12nn.

The image shows three in a family during the picnic. They are all wearing white shirts. The little girl is giving a compound leaf to her dad. There are two moderators named Peng So and Marie Umali shown at the left side.
April Family Support Group Poster

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 Angeles -- 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 11 April 2025 Friday at 1pm. Please do not share your link — only one device per name shall be accepted.

Our Moderators:

Perlita So is currently an ASP National Trustee and the North Luzon Cluster Head. Mom to four children, two of whom are on the autism spectrum. Peng 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.

Marie V. Umali, the 55-year-old President of ASP Angeles, is a graduate of the Medical Secretariat program at Angeles University Foundation Inc. She lives in Porac, Pampanga, with her husband and three children.

A loving housewife, a doting mom, and a cheerful friend to everyone, she loves cooking and dreams of traveling the world.

 
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