Geo’s First Triathlon

by ASP Secretariat

Ten‑year‑old athlete on the autism spectrum named Geo Austria crossed the finish line of his first triathlon at the Triman Triathlon 2026 in Vermosa Sports Hub. His participation was not about winning medals. It was about proving that people on the spectrum can thrive when communities make space for them.

Geo trained in swimming, cycling, and running with coaches experienced in supporting athletes with autism and other conditions. Their approach emphasized patience, regulation, and persistence -- showing that inclusion in sports is not about lowering standards, but about adapting environments so every child can participate meaningfully.

The organizers approved simple accommodations: light assistance during transitions and guidance from marshals on the bike course. These adjustments did not alter the challenge of the race; they removed unnecessary barriers. This demonstrates a critical principle: Accommodation is not an advantage. It is access.

Geo swam, biked, and ran the full course. He was not the fastest, but he completed every leg independently. His finish illustrated that athletes on the autism spectrum can meet the demands of mainstream competitions when inclusion is intentional. Geo’s triathlon highlights the importance of designing sports programs that recognize diverse needs. Inclusion means listening, adapting, and ensuring opportunities are available—not only for one child, but for many others who may be waiting for their chance.

"When inclusion becomes part of a community, we don't simply make space for one child," shared Cai Austria, Geo's mom. "We open the starting line for many more."

Sports organizations, schools, and communities can learn from this example: when inclusion is embedded in practice, Filipinos on the spectrum are empowered to discover their strengths, build resilience, and participate fully. Geo’s finish line was not just personal—it was a marker of what inclusive sports can achieve.

Share your stories of inclusion with us—whether in sports, school, or community spaces by emailing stories and photos to autismphils[at]gmail.com. Every experience helps show the world what’s possible and inspires others to build an #AutismOKPH

Read more »

Posted in: 4public,4pwas

Family Support Group for the month of September 2026

Date: 5 September 2026, Saturday

Time: 10:00 AM

Register here to get the Zoom link: https://bit.ly/3UFo3cx

Registration deadline: 4 September 2026, Friday at 12noon

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 Lipa, 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 4 September 2026 (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:

Karen Aujero is a National Board Trustee and a dedicated mother to Gabby, a 26-year-old on the autism spectrum who successfully graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Entertainment and Multimedia Computing. She is a freelancer with a passion for creativity, exploring various fields such as graphic design, printing, and crafting.

Mary Ann Elpedes is a dedicated mom to three adult children, two Shih Tzus, and two Puspins. Her eldest and only son, Andre, 30, is on the autism spectrum. She loves watching her favorite K-dramas. She has been the ASP Lipa Chapter President since 2018, advocating for inclusion and supporting families in the autism community.

Read more »

Posted in: 4parents,fsg

Family Support Group for the month of August 2026

Date: 8 August 2026, Saturday

Time: 10:00 AM

Register here to get the Zoom link: https://bit.ly/3S7rdVC

Registration deadline: 7 August 2026, Friday at 12noon

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 Antipolo, 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 7 August 2026 (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 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.

Bernadette Tabares is a mother of three young adults one of which is Sean who is on the spectrum, previous ASP National trustee and now current officer of ASP Antipolo chapter, loves to cook and bake.

As an active advocate, she empowers others through service and leadership. She is also a driven online reseller and affiliate, balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood and community work. A true example of strength, purpose, and heart.

Read more »

Posted in: 4parents,fsg

2026 ASP AUmazing Voices Live AUditions

Last year, 8 ASP singers on the spectrum embarked on a musical journey through the generosity of our sponsors and RMA Studio Academy. 

Here's a glimpse of their experience: video links: 

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1486774799043984

https://bit.ly/4vpFpXw

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1ERMH45kso/

More photos here: 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17y1UQjqcG/

We're thrilled to share that this opportunity is back!

Thanks to Mr & Mrs Brad Geiser, ASP will once again provide sponsored voice lessons for selected participants, who will also have the opportunity to perform in the RMA Concert on November 5, 2026.

To select this year's scholars, ASP and RMA Studio Academy will hold a LIVE audition on August 8, 2PM at the ASP Headquarters (map).

Who may audition?

Applicants must:

• Be an individual on the autism spectrum; 
• Be an active regular member of ASP, either as an individual member or as the child of an active regular member; 
• Associate members and non-members are welcome to apply and may become regular ASP members through http://bit.ly/asp-join before the audition; 
• Be able to sing and participate in a live performance; and 
• Be able to attend the required lessons, concert rehearsals, and November 5 concert should they be selected.

If you/your child would like to be considered for this year's sponsored learning sessions, please submit your application through this Jotform: https://form.jotform.com/261888341999479

Deadline for submission: 24 July 2026.

What to expect if selected

To make the most of this wonderful opportunity, selected participants are expected to:

• Attend the required weekly voice lessons from August to November 2026  at Mind & Body Hall, KMC Solutions, 12th Floor, Four NEO Building, 4th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City;
• Attend the required technical rehearsals in preparation for the RMA Concert;
• Perform in the November 5 RMA Concert, subject to the participant's readiness and completion of program requirements.

Please note:

• The sponsorship covers RMA tuition fees only.
• Transportation, meals, costumes, and other personal expenses will be the responsibility of the participant and/or family.
• Participation in the RMA learning sessions does not automatically guarantee participation in ASP Angels Walk for Autism performances, as these have separate selection processes.
• The sponsorship represents a significant investment. The scholars are requested to coordinate with ASP before accepting performance invitations from organizations outside ASP within one year of the grant. School activities and ASP chapter events are, of course, always welcome.

We look forward to discovering new voices, celebrating unique talents, and giving more ASP performers the opportunity to shine!

Read more »

Posted in: 4pwas,aumazing

ASP FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FOR JULY 2026

Date: 04 July 2026, Saturday

Time: 10:00 AM

Register here to get the Zoom link: https://bit.ly/4aPUgmE

Registration deadline: 03 July 2026, 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 Iloilo, 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 03 July 2026 (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:

Maria Joyla Ofrecia empowers families in the care and instruction of children and youth on the autism spectrum, as a valuable resource to the ASP Early Detection and Early Intervention Program, ASP Education Committee, and the ASP HOMEpowerment Program.

Her eldest is Juris, a young man on the autism spectrum. She has been a hands-on mother and for almost 16 years, has been implementing home intervention programs along with other center-based interventions not just for her own son but also for other children on the spectrum.

Kathryn Suresca is a widowed mother, pharmacy entrepreneur, and a passionate autism advocate. Her experiences raising a child on the autism spectrum have inspired her commitment to supporting families navigating similar journeys. As  ASP Iloilo chapter president, she works to promote awareness, inclusion, acceptance and meaningful support for the autism community.

Read more »

Posted in: fsg