UPCOMING FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP MEETING: CONNECT, SHARE, SUPPORT

Date: 12 July 2025, Saturday
Time: 10:00am

Register here to get the zoom link: https://bit.ly/4nAToqW

The registration deadline is Friday, 11 July 2025, at noon.

ASP’s 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 Laguna, welcomes members and non-members, bound by a common experience: autism. We aspire to educate, empower, and inspire to help build an Autism-OK Philippines.

Important: Please send an email to autismphils@gmail.com if you have not received your Zoom credentials by Friday, July 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Please do not share your link — only one device per name shall be accepted.

Our Moderators:

Diana de Ocampo is a single mother of two and has a younger brother on the autism spectrum. She graduated from De La Salle University with a degree in Computer Studies and is currently working as a Program Manager. She has been an active member of ASP since 2017, and is currently the cluster head of the ASP South Luzon Cluster.

Ma. Victoria "Marivic" Ramos, is the current Vice-President of ASP Laguna and a Community Development Professional. Marivic empowers families in the care and instruction of children and youth on the autism spectrum, as a valuable resource to the Autism Resource Center in Los Banos, Laguna. She is a single mother to Mico, a young adult on the spectrum.

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Posted in: 4parents,fsg

PROVINCIAL CHAPTERS HELP FUEL THE ASP ANGELS WALK FOR AUTISM 2025 SUCCESS NATIONWIDE

By Dang Koe

The ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2025 brought together thousands of advocates, families, organizations, and individuals from across the Philippines in an inspiring show of support for the autism community. A total of 41,000 people participated in this year’s celebration — a landmark achievement that reflects the growing awareness and collective action towards autism inclusion nationwide.

Record-Breaking Reach. In April, 10 Autism Society Philippines (ASP) chapters held their local Angels Walks in the cities of Baguio, Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, Lipa, Lucena, Butuan, Malaybalay, Tuguegarao, and Iloilo, drawing a combined crowd of over 10,000 participants.

These regional events culminated in the flagship ASP Angels Walk, held on May 18 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, which over 31,000 advocates attended. The event was supported by SM Cares, with nine chapters also hosted by SM Supermalls in their respective regions, reaffirming our continued partnership towards diversity, inclusion, and empowerment.

Growing Communities. This year’s events saw a significant rise in participation nationwide. Several chapters, including Baguio, Tuguegarao, and Cebu, noted increased support from local governments, NGOs, schools, therapy centers, and private partners. Notably, Tuguegarao’s debut event tripled its expected attendance, and Cebu drew the largest crowd with over 2,500 participants. Collaboration with organizations like JCI and consistent backing from SM Supermalls were key to the turnout.

Engaged Volunteers. Events became more dynamic and inclusive through improved production and community contributions. Volunteers played key roles across chapters, from distributing materials to organizing logistics. Parents were tapped for their talents in hosting, PR, and event coordination, while individuals on the spectrum took center stage as performers, enhancing inclusivity and impact.

Optimizing Humble Resources. Chapters like Iloilo emphasized the value of shared resources, structured guidance from the ASP National Office, and cross-chapter learning. These centralized efforts helped ensure consistency, smoother execution, and empowered local organizers.

Vibrant Allies. Several chapters saw turnouts far exceeding expectations. Bacolod welcomed over 1,600 attendees, exceeding the anticipated 600. Longtime sponsors stepped up their contributions, notably providing snacks and logistical support, thereby reinforcing their ongoing commitment that dates back years.

Collective Success. The ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2025 was a nationwide affirmation of solidarity, diversity, and shared purpose between our interconnected community of 106 chapters nationwide. Through continued collaboration among chapters, long-time and new partners, government agencies, and volunteers, ASP continues to lead the way in shaping an autism-inclusive Philippines.

The Autism Society Philippines sends its heartfelt thanks to all its chapters, partners, and advocates who made this year’s Angels Walk such a meaningful and memorable event. Because of your efforts, every step we took brought us closer to a more inclusive future. Together, we continue to move forward—stronger, united, and full of hope.

Dang Koe is the Chair Emerita of Autism Society Philippines (ASP). She is a well-known advocate for autism inclusion in the Philippines and in the region. She was the winner of the inaugural ASEAN Prize in 2019 and has served as the country’s representative on the board of the ASEAN Autism Network (AAN).

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Posted in: awalk,chapters

HISTORIC ASEAN AUTISM CONGRESS IN LAOS UNITES MEMBER COUNTRIES IN INCLUSION

By Dang Koe

Vientiane, Laos – Southeast Asia recently took a significant stride towards a more autism-inclusive future with the successful ASEAN Autism Congress 2025 and the accompanying ASEAN Autism Games, held from June 21 to 22. This landmark event brought together a diverse array of stakeholders at the Landmark Mekong River Hotel in Vientiane, Laos, marking a powerful regional commitment to championing the rights, inclusion, and empowerment of persons on the autism spectrum.

Organized by the ASEAN Autism Network (AAN), in collaboration with its 10 member organizations, including the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), the Congress served as a dynamic platform for fostering collaboration and sharing vital insights. Participants engaged in discussions aimed at sharing best practices in advocacy, education, and community inclusion. A core objective was to strengthen regional ties among autism-related organizations and institutions, while also raising visibility for individuals on the spectrum through community engagement, sports, and cultural expression. Ultimately, the gathering aimed to foster a deeper acceptance and understanding of autism within ASEAN communities.

The Congress drew a diverse range of attendees, fostering inclusive dialogue. Delegates came from various countries across the region, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. The participants themselves were diverse, encompassing policymakers, educators, researchers, families, self-advocates, and youth leaders. The event included stakeholders on the autism spectrum and their families, as well as representatives from Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), NGOs like Humanity and Inclusion (HI) and CBM, and regional and international development partners.

Inspiring messages and stories resonated throughout the event. The opening featured a welcome from Ms Mannivan Kittilah of Laos' Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (MLSW). Ms Jasmine Nadhira also shared a message of solidarity and commitment to disability-inclusive development from the ASEAN Secretariat’s Office of Poverty Eradication and Gender. Leaders from various AAN member countries showcased successful advocacy models.

ASP Chair Emerita Dang Koe, representing the Philippines, delivered an inspiring address reflecting on ASP’s 36-year journey. She highlighted the recent success of the Angels Walk for Autism, which gathered over 40,000 participants across the Philippines, symbolizing powerful community solidarity and awareness.

Preceding the Congress, the ASEAN Autism Games, held on June 21, celebrated the unique strengths and talents of individuals on the autism spectrum. Athletes from across ASEAN competed in a spirit of friendship and fun, demonstrating how inclusive sports and culture can effectively break barriers and build lasting bonds across borders.

This two-day celebration of advocacy, ability, and action marked a significant progression in the ASEAN-wide movement for autism inclusion. With renewed collaboration and a shared vision, the ASEAN Autism Congress 2025 reinforced the shared belief that a more inclusive future is not just a possibility, but a reality already actively unfolding.

Dang Koe is the Chair Emerita of Autism Society Philippines (ASP). She is a well-known advocate for autism inclusion in the Philippines and in the region. She was the winner of the inaugural ASEAN Prize in 2019 and has been the country’s representative to the board of the ASEAN Autism Network (AAN).

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Posted in: aan,asean,inclusion

ASP JOINS DISABILITY ADVOCATES IN DIALOGUE WITH PHILHEALTH PRESIDENT

By Mona Magno-Veluz

A long-awaited dialogue finally took place between the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and disability advocates, including the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), on June 30, 2025, at PhilHealth Headquarters, to address critical gaps in health and rehabilitation services for children and youth with disabilities.

ASP National President LJ Sumulong and ASP Chair Emerita Dang Koe joined representatives from parent-led disability organizations, rehabilitation professionals, and individuals with disabilities who were granted an audience with Dr. Edwin M. Mercado, the new President and CEO of PhilHealth. The meeting focused on the implementation of Republic Act 11228, which mandates the provision of rehabilitation and assistive technology services for children with disabilities, under the Children's Benefit Package.

Dr. Mercado listened intently as our delegation shared stories from the ground -- of parents who have had to give up careers to care for their children, of families struggling with the high cost of therapies and assistive devices, and of professionals who wish to stay and serve locally but face limited support. His genuine empathy gave the group hope for meaningful change.

Although the rehabilitation benefit package technically exists, its implementation remains wanting due to a severe shortage of accredited facilities and professionals. This leaves many children with disabilities without the critical services they need to improve functionality and live with dignity and on an equal footing with their peers.

The nearly three-hour dialogue ended on a hopeful note. Rehabilitation professionals are committed to helping PhilHealth develop clear and practical accreditation guidelines for private rehab centers and practitioners. They were also encouraged to apply for the E-Konsulta program — a positive step that brings digital access to health services closer to marginalized communities.

The Autism Society Philippines, together with our partners in the disability sector, remains committed to ongoing dialogue and collaboration with PhilHealth. The journey toward fully accessible, affordable, and inclusive healthcare continues — and we will keep walking this path until every child with a disability receives the support they deserve.

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: 4public,advocates,govt,philhealth

ASP HOMEPOWERMENT 2025 BATCH 2 -- APPLY NA!

Napakahalaga ng tamang pagtuturo sa bahay sa pag-unlad ng ating mga anak na may autismo. Kaya’t ang Autism Society Philippines ay patuloy na naglulunsad ng training para sa mga magulang at tagapag-alaga tungkol sa akmang pagtuturo at pag-aaruga sa kanilang mga anak sa tahanan.

Layunin ng Autism Society Philippines Homepowerment Program na mabigyan ng kakayahan ang mga pamilya, lalo na yung hirap tustusan ang regular na pag-therapy ng kanilang mga anak, na gawin ang nauukol na pagtuturo at therapy sa bahay.

Ang Homepowerment Program ay nagbibigay ng:

• training para sa mga magulang at taga pag-alaga ng mga batang may Autism Spectrum Disorder
• libreng Occupational at Speech and Language assessment at Home Program sa mga piling pamilya ng mga batang 8 taon pababa (as of July 2025)
• mentoring (1 on 1) sa pagpapatupad ng Home Program sa mga napiling pamilya.

Ang mga training-workshop, assessment at therapy sessions ay gagawin online via Zoom.

Sino ang mga maaaring sumali sa Homepowerment Program?

Lahat ng REGULAR na miyembro ng ASP ay maaaring sumali sa online trainings and workshops. Kinakailangan na mayroong malakas na signal ng internet sa lugar nila at cellphone o computer, para makasama sa online sessions. Maaaring magpahiram ang ASP ng prepaid modem sa mga piling pamilya na walang postpaid internet sa bahay.

Para sa libreng OT at ST assessment at Home Program, ang maaaring sumali ay:

• mga anak ng regular members ng ASP na may diagnosis ng ASD
• 8 taong gulang pababa as of July 2025
• ang mga magulang o’ primary caregiver ay may sapat na paninindigan at kakayanang ipatupad ang programang imumungkahi sa kanila.
• ang mga magulang o’ primary caregiver na nakadalo sa lahat ng training sessions at nagawa ang mga assignment sa workshop.

Bibigyang prayoridad ang mula sa low-income families at mga walang access sa therapy sa kanilang lugar; isasa-alang-alang din kung matagal nang miyembro ng ASP.

Sino ang maaaring sumali sa mga training workshops?

Ang training workshops ay bukas sa lahat ng regular na miyembro ng ASP, anumang ang edad ng kanilang anak. Bagamat nakatuon ang training modules para sa early intervention programs, maaari pa rin makatulong sa lahat ng edad ang strategies na pag-uusapan.

Interactive ang mga training. May pagkakataong magtanong at makatuklas ng nauukol na strategy ukol sa mga specific na pangangailangan ang lahat ng dadalo sa trainings. May mga workshops kung saan ang mga lumahok ay maa-apply ang mga napag-usapang strategies sa kanilang anak.

Lahat ng gustong sumali sa training ay dapat mag-register at tumugon sa ipadadalang email para mabigyan ng schedule at link sa training.

Ilan at kailan ginagawa ang mga training?

May hindi kukulangin sa 10 modules ang training-workshops. Ito ay gaganapin minsan sa isang linggo sa oras at araw na pinakamainam sa mga registered trainees. Bawat session ay tatagal ng mga 2 oras. Maaaring may takdang gawain pagkatapos ng mga workshop.

Ilan ang libreng therapy sessions na ibibigay ng Homepowerment?

Bawat mapiling beneficiary ng libreng therapy sessions ay magkakaroon ng hindi kukulangin sa 7 na session ng Occupational Therapy at 7 na session ng Speech therapy. Layunin na maturuan ng therapist ang magulang kung ano at paano turuan ang bata batay sa kanilang assessment. Sa katapusan ng mga therapy sessions, pababaunan ng Home Program ang mga magulang kung saan nakasaad ang mga Goals and Strategies para sa kanilang anak. May isang session ng Case Team Conference kung kailan ipapaliwanag ng OT/SLP sa mga magulang/ tagapag-alaga at mga parent-mentors ang kanilang Home Program.

Ang pinakalayunin ng therapy sessions ay:

• matukoy ng therapist ang kakayahan ng bata
• matukoy ang pangunahing pangangailangan ng bata
• pinakamabisang paraan ng pagtuturo sa bata (teaching strategy)
• turuan ang mga magulang kung paano ipatupad ang home program

Pagkatapos ng 4-6 na buwan ng pagpapatupad ng Home Program, maaaring magkaroon ng re-assessment at reevaluation ang mga therapist.

Para mag-apply sa Homepowerment Program, sundan ang link na ito https://form.jotform.com/202191473333449 at ibigay ang mga hinihiling na impormasyon. Hintayin ang email o’ mensahe mula sa ASP. Deadline ng applications ay hanggang July 31 lamang.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pwas,HOMEpowerment