A Common Journey

By Pinky O. Cuaycong

It was my sister who first put the words “autism” and “Alphonse” together in one sentence. She mentioned it before anyone else, before even my son’s pediatrician.

She was still in medical school then. She had been playing with her nephew for a few hours that day when she stopped and looked at me. “Ate, I think there’s something different about Alphonse,” she said slowly, weighing her words carefully.

My reactions, as expected, were instinctive, a mother grizzly defending her cub. When you have an absolutely gorgeous fourteen-month-old child, you’re loath to believe anything can be wrong with him. “There’s absolutely nothing different with him,” I brushed her off, hoping the tone of my voice would be enough to dissuade her.

“But, ah, ehm, have you heard of autism?” she persisted, her voice quivering. “Well, you see, we just had a lecture on it and, uhm, I have my Nelson here and…” (Nelson is the Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics.)

“Yes, I have, but what does it have to do with Alphonse?” I distinctly remember feeling hot and faint at that moment. My voice was slowly turning shrill, as hysteria and anger started setting in.

“Well, I think he has it. He might be high-functioning, you know…” I didn’t give her time to continue as I scooped Alphonse in my arms, glared at her malevolently, and left the room. How dare she! My very own sister!

In the weeks that followed, however, her words gave me the impetus to observe and look at my son with a more clinical and objective eye. Alphonse was adorable and chubby and cute and everything infants and toddlers were. It was gut-wrenching to acknowledge the things he did as anything other than “normal.” Flapping. Toe-walking. Spinning. Walking in circles. Loss of eye contact. Loss of language. By then, it simply was too difficult to deny anymore.

We all have taken those steps toward the realization that our children are different from their peers. Mine started that way, on one seemingly innocent afternoon that changed the entire course of our lives. In Valerie Paradiz’ and son Elijah Wapner’s lives, things were more turbulent, even more frightening, as Elijah, then only two, was afflicted with seizures. As terrifying as the idea of a child retreating into his own world is, even more frightening to parents is the prospect of watching helplessly as their child battles the demons of his own body.

Valerie and Elijah’s journey is as unique as Alphonse’s and mine, and as that of any other parent and child with a diagnosis on the spectrum. But I am in awe of their story, of their struggle and growth, and of their love and acceptance, as their journey marked not only milestones for their family, but for the larger community of individuals with autism all over the world. In Valerie’s quest to help her son, she finds a way to help others as well. How she translated her life’s work as teacher and writer into a vocation of reaching out to individuals with autism through appropriate education and self-empowerment is truly amazing.

Ms. Paradiz is one of four major speakers at Autism Society Philippines 11th National Conference this year. She will also conduct a day-long seminar on Integrated Planning and Teaching Menus on October 26 as follow-up to the conference. As pioneer of innovative educational programs for individuals in the spectrum, she will impart with us her experiences and knowledge in encouraging learning in our children. Specifically intended to parents and professionals, she speaks not only as a teacher and parent, but also as one with Asperger’s Syndrome herself. Her insights are valuable as she treads between our world and our children’s, with the hope of making them one.

This year, the theme “Autism Beyond Borders” is particularly apt in light of our efforts to cross cultures, languages, and, with hearts full of hope, prejudices and biases. Indeed, autism is no longer a single experience limited to those who live with it. Today, autism is all over the globe, reaching many families from all walks of life. Mine is one of them, Valerie Paradiz’ another. I embrace her as a fellow sister in our common journey.

Recommended Reading: Elijah's Cup: A Family's Journey Into The Community And Culture Of High-Functioning Autism And Asperger's Syndrome by Valerie Paradiz.

Autism Beyond Borders (where HOPE prevails), Autism Society Philippines 11th National Conference will be on October 24 and 25, 2009 at the SMX. A two-day post-conference lecture series (whole day sessions with Ms. Valerie Paradiz and Mr. Toshihiro Ogimura) follows on October 26 and 27, 2009 at the Skydome, SM North EDSA. Register now to avail of early bird fees, now until September 30 only.

Pinky Cuaycong is Kittymama, full time mom of two boys (a 16-year-old high school junior and a 14-year-old with profound autism), part-time writer, and blogger. In Okasaneko Chronicles, she writes about her life’s deepest passions: her husband of 18 years, her teenage sons, autism advocacy, and Hello Kitty.

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Medical Privileges for PWDs

The Department of Health finally signs the provisions of medical and related discounts and special privileges for persons with disabilities or DOH Administrative Order#2009-0011 on May 20, 2009.

This is in line with the RA 9442 or the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, providing for the rehabilitation, self-development and self-reliance of PWDs in their integration into the mainstream society.

This specifically required the DOH to institute a national health program for PWDs among others, adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach to the health and development of PWDs which shall make essential health services available to them at affordable cost.

Persons with disabilities, with valid PWD IDs and Medicine Purchase Slip Booklet can now avail of the privileges. Click here to view the complete list of cities and municipalities issuing PWD cards around the Philippines.

PWDs shall be entitled to the following:

1. At least 20% discount for the purchase of medicines (branded or unbranded generic) in all drugstores/establishments dispensing medicines for the exclusive use or enjoyment of PWD

2. At least 20% discount on medical and dental services including diagnostic and laboratory fees such as, but not limited to x-rays, CT scans and blood tests, in all government facilities, professional fees of attending doctors in all private hospitals and medical facilities

3. All PWDs are granted the privilege of 20% discount in all private hospitals and medical facilities for the costs of medical, dental, rehabilitation, occupational and physical and speech therapies or services

Two local daily news have published the Administrative Order last May 31, 2009, in Manila Bulletin and Philippine Daily Inquirer. To read the complete copy of the DOH AO click here. For more information please contact DOH Degenerative Disease Office (+632) 743-8301 to 23.

Among the provisions for the Penalty and Sanctions are also mentioned in the said Administrative Order. National Council for Disability Affairs is the government agency responsible for the oversight of the law.

For further Information contact the National Council on Disability Affairs at Telephone numbers (632) 952-2809, (632) 951-5013, (632) 951-5925 NCDA email address: council@ncda.gov.ph NCDA website: http://www.ncda.gov.ph

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Countdown to Conference Time!

By: Pinky O. Cuaycong

I woke up this morning, certain that something good is soon coming. I ran to the calendar on the wall, and started counting the days. “Sixty-one days before the conference,” I whispered breathlessly. I can hardly wait!

It’s been like this some years now. When conference time comes, and it comes only once every two years (from 1995 to 2001, it was actually an annual conference, thereafter, a biennial event), it seems as if the whole autism community in the country is abuzz with excitement. One gets caught up in the frenzy of reconnecting with old friends, who, by virtue of geographical distance, you get to see only during conferences. More importantly, one gets seized with the fever of autism issues, both old and new, at hand. Suddenly, we’re not just living with autism, we’re all talking about it, too. How often do we really get to do that, really?

When my son was diagnosed with autism thirteen and a half years ago, one of the most important decisions my husband and I ever made was to attend the 1996 National Conference on Autism. With the theme “Parents and Professionals Working Two-gether,” newbies in the autism world that we were then, we felt an almost imperative need to search for answers to questions that we had. Of course, it helped that the Internet was starting to take off in the country and we could get information not just from books, of which we had precious few, but also from various sources. Yet, information and knowledge, while crucial to our journey as a family living with this condition, palled in light of our isolation. Finding others who shared a similar plight — parents and professionals who understood our struggles and achievements, our trials and successes — helped us in our road to healing. That conference marked the year we learned to embrace our differences from other families, believing with deep faith in a human journey of God’s design.

And so we ask the question: what do we look forward to this year? Well, click on Autism Beyond Borders to find out everything you need to know about the conference. Allow me, however, to whet your appetite. We’ve got a great line-up this year, with four foreign speakers flying from different parts of the globe to lead our learning experiences. There’s Dr. Valerie Paradiz (herself a diagnosed case of Asperger’s and mom to a son with the same condition), who will speak on learning strategies to help our children; Mr. Toshihiro Ogimura, who will talk on Daily Life Therapy, a Japanese method of intervention in use in the famous Higashi schools, including the residential program; Dr. Knut Erik Baalerud, specialist in psychiatry, who will discuss seizures and other neurologic issues common to our children; and Mr. Hiroshi Kawamura, who will help us in the blossoming of DAISY as an assistive technology for persons with autism. Of course, we have our local experts to round up the panel, with Teacher Archie David, ASP Laguna’s Riza Cansanay, OT Lyle Duque, Speech Path Jeri Casas, Teacher Hope Leyson, and Chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights Atty Leila de Lima to speak on their individual areas of autism expertise. It isn’t often that great minds (and hearts) come together in one place at the same time, and I am definitely not passing this opportunity to drink in their knowledge.

It can’t be denied that the conference gets better each time, and on the The 11th National Conference, the winds of change augur auspiciously. (Did I tell you my favorite number is 11?) I invite you to be part of this historic, groundbreaking work to make a difference in the lives of each and every person with autism in our country. Come and join us on October 24 and 25 at the SMX Convention Center. Register now to avail of the early bird rates! Help us change lives. It could also change yours. _________________________________________________________________

Pinky Cuaycong is Kittymama, full time mom of two boys (a 16 year-old high school junior and a 14 year-old with profound autism), part-time writer, and blogger. In Okasaneko Chronicles, she writes about her life’s deepest passions: her husband of 18 years, her teenage sons, autism advocacy, and Hello Kitty.

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August 29 Back to Back Seminars

Inclusion of Children with Autism in the Regular Classroom

29 August 2009, 9:00am-12:00nn

Asian Social Institute, #1581 Leon Guinto cor Escoda Sts. Malate, Manila

This seminar will discuss how schools can effectively adjust their curricular framework to accept students with disabilities, including children with autism. The seminar will also present ways of accessing the regular education curriculum and how students, with and without disabilities are evaluated. Participants will learn different approaches on how to make ALL students function in an inclusive classroom environment.

Dr. Mercedes Adorio

Dr. Mercedes Adorio obtained her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology & Educational Sociology in UP and has served as College Secretary (1992-1995) and as Faculty-in-Charge of the Special Education area of the Division of Curriculum and Instruction. She is often invited as resource person in national and regional school divisions and has presented papers in international conferences. She is the author of Special Education in the Philippines: Trends and Issues. Dr. Adorio was a former professor of Special Education of UP, Diliman. She is currently teaching SPED at the Philippine Women’s University.

Vocation Education for Persons with Autism

29 August 2009, 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Asian Social Institute, #1581 Leon Guinto cor Escoda Sts. Malate, Manila

A practical take on SPED Vocational Education, focusing on the learning culture of persons with autism and the Filipino culture as they affect assessment, goal-setting, and the teaching and learning process. The seminar will highlight the Tiny Big experience, an on-going 6-year feasibility study on the training and employment of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Ms. Maria Corazon Colendrino or Teacher Abel is a passionate hands-on teacher to her students at Tiny Big Special School Inc., where she also serves as the School Directress. She graduated from UP Diliman with a degree in Home Economics and Masters in Education, major in Special Education. Presently, she is a lecturer at the Special Education Department of Miriam College and is pursuing her doctorate in Special Education in UP.

SEMINAR FEE is inclusive of certificate, handouts and snacks

Pre-registered participants may pay to Autism Society Philippines, Banco de Oro, Savings Account # 3980002955. Please fax the deposit slip with the name/s of participant/s to ASP office and bring it on the day of the seminar. On-site registrants will be accepted depending on the availability of slots. There will only be 80 slots available. No refund will be given to participants who did not show up on the date of the seminar. For more details, please call ASP at 7-903-5496.

The ASP Seminar Series serves as a platform to educate Filipino parents and professionals on the various interventions, modalities and theories surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder. Their application and implementation are left at your discretion. The views and personal experiences of the speakers are of their own and don’t necessarily reflect that of the views of the organization.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,inclusion,seminar,vocation

ASP Family Support Group for August 2009

Our facilitator Ms. Barbara Lu with son Bryan

Our facilitator for this month is Ms. Barbara Lu, serving as ASP’s Trustee since November, 2005. She juggles her time between her busy career as a businesswoman in Clean City Commercial, Inc, and time for family and ASP. She is also the co-founder of SPARKS (Special Partners for Autism in Recreation Knowledge and Socialization), a support group for families of persons with autism, based in Quezon City.

She is the loving and supportive mom of Bryan, drummer and percussionist of Sparkle Band, the latest Philippine pop music sensation composed of teens with autism. (Please Watch August 25 UNTV 6-7pm Ito ang Balita's Estorya features SPARKLE BAND, and August 26 5:30pm.).

FREE Registration!
Date: August 22, 2009, Saturday
Time: 1:00-5:00 PM
Venue: ASP Office, Room 307, ML Bldg., #47 Kamias Road, QC

Hurry! Call now at 7-903-5496
Only 15 seats available!

Sign up now and learn practical tips on parenting and how to advocate for your child with autism.

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Ripples in the River

By: Cathy Genovia ASP Program Assistant

In celebration of the 31st National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week, Autism Society Philippines was invited to give an orientation on “How to Care for a Disabled”. More than 170 frontliner service providers of Ayala Malls last July 24 at Glorietta Cinema 4.

ASP National President, Dang Koe was one of the resource speakers of the orientation. Other speakers were Architect Jaime Silva of the United Architects of the Philippines, Mr. Antonio Pasia of Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines Inc. and Ms. Maureen Ava Mata of Makati PWD Federation Inc.

(From Right) Mr. Joseph Salcedo, ASP President Erlinda Koe and Ms. Jane Competant

Participants of the seminar

Each speaker was allotted twenty minutes. This meant a lot of new information for the service providers and this also created renewed opportunities for ASP to help dispel misconceptions about autism. The Ayala Malls first extended this opportunity last July 22, 2008. This orientation is the second so far.

This orientation is a joint project of Makati Social Welfare Department with representatives Ms. Marjorie De Veyra- Department Head and Acting City Administrator and Ms. Laila Guce- Social Worker of Makati City ; Makati Tourism Foundation representative Ms.Jane Competante- Executive Assistant, United Architects of the Philippines and Mr. Joseph Salcedo- Customer Service Manager of Ayala Property Management Corporation.

They say that a small stone thrown in the river can create ripples. ASP is looking forward future endeavors.

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11th National Conference on Autism

Beyond the confines of our own cultures.

Across oceans and continents..

Autism leaves no territory uncovered.

Yet each culture and country has given wonderful and insightful contributions in creating programs and interventions that help cope with a disorder that still has yet to provide answers from whence it came from and where it is going.

This conference presents programs, theories and applications from different parts of the world that may vary in approach, yet each holding valuable nuggets of truth in reaching out to those who have touched our lives with their diff-ability.

Together in this conference, the diversity of these approaches will seek a common ground towards creating collaborations and widening understanding about the constituents of the global autism community that we so very much care about.

7-903-5496
secretariat@autismbeyondborders.com
Click here to go to Autism Beyond Borders Website

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Fun Day ng Batang May K

By: Cathy Genovia

Thousands of persons with disability with their families and friends attended Fun Day in celebration of the 31st National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week last July 18, 2009. The celebration was hosted by SM Supermalls at the SM North EDSA Sky Dome.

Credited to the creative team work composed of representatives from the different government agencies, NGOs, Disabled Peoples’ Organizations, Fun Day ng Batang May K was a huge success.

The program was formally started with a parade from the Sky Dome passing through the mall and going back to the Sky Dome. To make this event more memorable and enjoyable, the Working Committee distributed food, drinks and freebies to children with disabilities (CWD).

ASP delegation during the Fun Day celebration

ASP sponsors free caricature sketching by Gabby Atienza, 50 year old accomplished artist with autism. Aside from the free sketching, children enjoyed free face painting, and origami making. For the oldies, there were also free massage and free blood pressure check-up, and free haircut for all ages.

Simultaneously, a mini-concert hosted by Pastor Eric Maliwat, DZAS Station Manager and 80’s Filipino pop icon and quintessential singer, Dr. Nonoy Zuñiga. Celebrity guests also supported the event. Sexy actress and comedianne Ara Mina sang a duet with her sister Princess, who has Downs Syndrome. Nikki Bacolod, “Dyosa” tele-novela star sang an upbeat number, and to her surprise, different children with disabilities also came up on stage to dance with her.

The Sparkle Band, a pop band composed of teens with autism rocked the house down with High by Speaks and I’ll Be by Edwin Main, with Daryl Lim Tan on vocals, Bryan Lu on drums and kuadro (percussion instrument) and Desly Lim Alvarado on keyboards. (Watch out for Sparkle Band performance at the television talk show Mel and Joey, on August 9).

Celebration The morning concert commenced with community singing of “Ikaw Na Nga” popularized by Willie Revillame, with the Fun Day Working Committee composed of Government and NGOs wearing white gloves and signing. Children were treated to a sumptuous lunch while they watched an on-going cartoon film on Helen Keller was shown to the audience for free. By the afternoon, Sky Dome was packed to the brim with many walk-in passers by who were curious about the on-going events. DZAS (a local AM Christian Radio Station) broadcasted the event from inside the Sky Dome to thousands of listeners here and abroad. For the opening number, Pinoy Dream Academy Winner Yeng Constantino, aka Grand Star Dreamer sang song from her latest album.

Not to be outdone, Vell Barria, ASP Autism Diva, with her Charice Pempengco like “birit” left the audiences with opened mouths and thunderous applause. And to cap the afternoon concert was the much sought-after Tumtum Mendoza, world class marimba player with autism, with his signature marimba numbers. While the events were on-going, many flocked to the ASP booth. They asked for brochures, talked to our friendly staff. Many became aware and informed of persons with autism. Many misconceptions about autism were erased. As the day came to a close, we recall the words of encouragement by Ms. Gigi Ruiz, Executive Director of NCDA: “Persons with disabilities must remain VOCAL and VISIBLE.” We find these words fulfilled. To supporters, sponsors and well-wishers, families and people behind the scenes, our heartfelt THANK YOU for making this fun-filled day and NDPR week celebrations possible.

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Autism Bonds: The Sibsons

by My Gison-Sorongon, MA Ed, ASP EDEIP Trainer

Some ties cannot be broken. No matter what it goes through in life, it will always find a way to strengthen the bond and make it last a lifetime. This is true for those who are siblings of persons with autism (PWA).

Fourteen (14) siblings of PWA, ages 10 to 20+, came together on April 18-19, 2009 at Villa Yuki, Los Banos, Laguna to affirm/ reaffirm, encourage and support each other in their roles and responsibilities as brothers and sisters of PWA. Naming themselves as SIBSONS, the siblings of ASP Laguna Chapter released all their inhibitions through the numerous physical and mental games; courageously shared their fears & anxieties, doubts & shame, anger & frustrations and openly expressed their joys & triumphs, and dreams & aspirations. To be reminded that they still had normal lives to live, the Sibsons surely enjoyed the treat they got such as staying overnight in a rented house with a pool (parents were not allowed to stay in the house), eating heartily and chatting the night away with new found friends while rekindling friendships with the old ones!

Participants of the Sibscamp

The Sibsons continued their bonding a month after their sibling workshop. Huddled together inside the UP Los Baños campus, they made concrete plans in solidifying their ties such as organizing an autism orientation for siblings in Laguna and continuing the sibling workshop.

Autism truly bonds the Sibsons. They may come from different family backgrounds with different personalities but one thing is for sure. They know that they have each other to lean on and draw support from as they go through the roller coaster journey of being the siblings of PWA.

My deepest gratitude for the Sibsons for allowing me to be part of their journey, for the ASP Laguna Chapter Officers composed of Mrs. Riza Cansanay, Mrs. Cathy Lopez, Teacher Marivic Ramos, Ms. Vay Chavez for the trust in delivering such service and for Ate Hycee, Ate Inah and Ate Kaye, adult siblings of PWA, for helping facilitate the workshop.

Long live your ties!!!

Watch out for the coming schedule of Sibshops of ASP Bacoor and ASP Diliman, Quezon City Chapters.

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Autism is Tough, but Don’t Give Up.

By Tiffany Tan ASP Board Secretary

Braving the heavy rain and nursing a fever, ASP Trustee Ging Viado and her dedicated sister traveled all the way from Laguna to Quezon City to facilitate July 18’s family support group.

Ging has earned units in Masters in Special Education (SPED) at the Philippine Normal University, had numerous trainings in the field of SPED both here and abroad. Hoping to extend services in Laguna and nearby municipalities she opened GS Option House for Autism and Related Disorders, in Biñan.

Teacher Ging (in violet) and Mom Tiffany (in green) listen to the
concerns of the participants in July 18 Family Support Group

Waiting eagerly at the office were a mother, a caregiver, 2 sets of parents with their special children. Teacher Ging began testifying her life as a mother to Sarah Gay or Gigi, now a young adult at 23, and the different encounters of being a special education teacher.

Teacher Ging has this nugget of advice to parents of newly diagnosed children with autism: “Dreams are often shelved. It’s really hard. But eventually, we must come to terms with the child’s diagnosis, and go beyond the “labeling” to address the child’s needs.”

The participants’ needs were varied as they talked of the difference concerns from the long cue of setting doctor appointments, to disclosure of the diagnosis, to the older child with autism when his self-awareness starts to kick in. But the most heated topic was looking for services for children with autism. Based on her many years of teaching experience, she reiterated the importance of early intervention of children with autism, and having a continuing program even from adolescence through adulthood.

Although our public school system accepts children with disabilities into the system, the child is only accepted upon reaching 5 years old. Ging advised the parents to do their own research, to spend more time with their children, enroll them in appropriate therapy sessions and to work closely with professionals.
“But when does intervention stop since autism is lifetime?” came the echo of one frustrated parent. Teacher Ging drank a the cup of water and gave the best answer to this often heard and difficult question.

“Autism is often compared to a puzzle. The challenge is to make the puzzle complete. We have to fit in the puzzle pieces. If one piece or a few pieces are missing, we should help fill in the gaps. It is vital that we have commitment and the correct intervention or treatment. There is no one sure formula for autism. The key is to help the child become the best that he can be.”

Being equipped parents is also essential in helping the child with autism. ASP has designed monthly seminars to give parents options on various treatment options and approaches. They were all encouraged to keep abreast with the latest news on autism by reading books at the ASP library. ASP members also received the almost daily newsletters on the latest autism news, stories and different activities. They were also encouraged to become advocates.

“We must not view autism as a burden, but rather, a challenge, a test of our endurance. Autism also affects the whole family, but, because of autism, the family learns to be more patient, and become stronger,” concluded Ging.

By 5:00pm, the rains had stopped. The parents went home. Ging called her husband on the phone and proceeded to finish her unopened lunch. Autism toughens up mothers. Autism drives parents to do the impossible. Don’t give up.

Sign up now for the next family support group on August 22, 2009 at 1-5pm. Share your hopes and dreams with us. We will listen.

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Autism Keepers

By: Cathy Genovia, ASP Program Assistant

During the June 20 ASP Family Support Group, all eight mothers, one father and friend were very much delighted to meet in person the author of Federic’s Flight, Ms. Christine C Roa.

Mom Chrissy is a communication and education specialist and a part owner of South Kids International School, Program Consultant of Brighter Beginnings Daycare Center in Unilever. She served as ASP’s Vice President from 2005 to 2007 and continues to contribute to the success of some of ASP’s major programs and events.

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon with the participants of the FSG

With Ms. Crissy Roa with the other participants

Topics discussed were seizures, its causes and its conditions. Although the increase in seizures which accompanies puberty is well known, but not at all understood. The parents were encouraged to seek medical advice from medical professionals.

Another topic is one growing up or the adolescent stage. Being a mom to 14.5 year old Federic Christian, Mom Chrissy was generous in sharing Fedi’s stories to others. Others were surprised to find out that what typical teens go through is just the same as for those with autism.

One parent realized the importance of spending more quality time with her daughter with autism. Seeing how Mom Chrissy went through with her struggles, the participants didn’t hesitate to know the day-to-day trials and triumphs of this family. They started to ask for her book and stayed longer for more tips on parenting. Afterwards, there was autograph signing.

Chrissy’s son Fedi is now a third year high school student at the New Era University. Fedi’s younger brother Frankie, seven has already decided to marry at 50 to secure his Kuya Fedi’s future before anything else. He speaks candidly of his “would-be wife”…that she must accept his Kuya for who he is…and if she doesn’t, he will kick her out of the house. The book Federic’s Flight is also available at ASP. Call 7-903-5496.

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Good Things Come to Those Who Can’t Wait

By: Marivi Cabason

ASP-Marikina-Rizal Chapter continues to work hard in its advocacy expansion and autism awareness campaigns. And due to the success of the previous Autism Early Detection and Early Intervention Program (EDEIP) seminar last March 20 at Teatro Marikina, some teachers from Antipolo National High School (ANHS) eagerly clamored to have a similar seminar be conducted in their school.

ANHS Principal, Ms. Corazon La Serna personally requested Dang Koe, ASP National President to conduct the seminar. Alex Cabason, Jr, President of ASP-Marikina-Rizal Chapter, awarded certificates to a surprising number of 161 participants last May 29, 2009.

“Alex’s contagious leadership rubs off on his chapter leaders as you see their all-out team work and support, manning tables, talking to participants inquiring on autism, selling merchandise. Others, seeing their commitment, signed up for membership,” observes Dang.

Also in line with ASP’s goal of developing new pool of resource speakers to address demands for more Autism Orientation nationwide, Alex rises up to take the challenge like a true leader. Equipped with a Power Point template developed by ASP National Office, he conducted his first seminar to GFA or Golden Faith Academy, Taytay on June 19, 2009.

ASP Marikina Officers with Ms. Dang Koe

Teachers and parents who attended the seminar

Attended by 40 teachers and parents, the seminar was a success, receiving positive reactions from Mrs. Nenita Cao, GFA Directress and the participants themselves. The seminar ended with hopes of future collaboration with the GFA Special Education Coordinator, Mrs. Elma Ruth. The parents were also invited to register as members of the chapter.

In addition to the above mentioned seminars, on June 13 and June 17, we also visited Schola Antipolo Integrated (SAI) and My Kid’s World Laboratory School (MKWLS) in Midtwon Subdivision, San Roque, consecutively. Upon the invitation of Ms. Maan Alvaran, (Schola School Administrator) the chapter’s objectives, thrusts and activities were presented to the parents. They were also encouraged to join the chapter and be active in the advocacy for autism awareness.

The same challenge was posed during the meeting conducted by My Kid’s Administrator Mrs. Nancy Perrucho together with some teachers and school staff. And the good news is, she offered the facilities of the school for future activities of the chapter. Initial coordination is ongoing as Marikina Catholic School administrator requested the chapter to schedule ASP Marikina-Rizal Chapter for a seminar on autism early detection and early intervention.

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Manna from Heaven

By Ian Ferdinand Lopez, ASP Laguna autism self-advocate

Unlike other days, on June 1, was a blessed day. We received a blessing like a flood of manna from heaven from our friends at United Parcel Service. As implementers of the project: “A sustainable work-live-play program for young adults with autism” UPS grants the amount of USD 40,000 or approximately Php 1.8 million. The ceremonial turnover held at the Autism Resource Center in Los Baños, Laguna.

ASP National President Dang Koe, (left of photo), UPS Country Human Resource Manager Rolando Nierva (middle of photo) and ASP Laguna President Riza Cansanay

ASP National President Dang Koe, (left of photo) Vice-President Grace Adviento, ASP Treasurer Evelyn Go and ASP Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon , Jun Montemayor from the Batong Malake Barangay Council , UPS Country Human Resource Manager Rolando Nierva (middle of photo) and his companions were the special guests.

The exciting event was started with a thanksgiving prayer led by Emman Zamora. Master of ceremonies David Michael Lopez gave the line-up of activities. Mr. Jun Montemayor of the Batong Malake Barangay Council gave the welcome remarks.

After the introduction, a slide presentation showing the trials, triumphs and goals of Laguna chapter was shown to the guests/visitors and friends.

ASP-Laguna Chapter President Riza C. Cansanay (right of photo) delivered an inspiring speech which moved some of the guests into tears.

The ceremonial turnover was done in the presence of ASP National President, Dang Koe with Mr. Rolly Nierva, UPS representative handing the mock check. Afterwards he gave a short message, Mama Dang followed with words of gratitude. Intermission numbers were rendered by Ian Ferdinand Lopez and Wilbert Rola and tokens of appreciation were distributed by Michael Cansanay and Ian Cruz. ASP-Laguna Vice- President, Cathy Lopez gave the closing remarks. After the program, the guests were treated to finger foods prepared by the young adults with autism working in the Enabling Community Food Service. The affair ended with a photo session.

We are surely expected to handle the blessings effectively and safely. After the guests had left, it rained. The rain reminded us that that we prayed for blessings and manna came pouring today.

Click here to read the full story of The Purpose Driven Vision: An Enabling Community for people with Autism.

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Posted in: chapters,corporate,laguna,ups

Dreaming Big for Autism

by: Riza Cansanay, President ASP-Laguna

We dream big. Our goals were big goals. Create jobs for our adults with autism. Provide living and recreational facilities. Make the physical environment more adaptable for participation. Educate the people in the community about autism. This vision was formulated under an Acacia Tree on year 2004.

ASP Laguna Chapter receives a US$40,000 grant from United Parcel Service (UPS) for its sustainable work-live-play training program for young adults with autism to fund the project:

“A Social Enterprise in Batong Malake for Young Adults with Autism and their Families”

Proposed by ASP National to the UPS Foundation, the project started officially on the first day of June with a ceremonial turnover at the Autism Resource Center Laguna. ASP Laguna Chapter President Riza Cansanay, Vice-President Cathy Lopez plus some PWAs welcomed participants during the event.

Aside from training these young adults, the project will also sustain environmental adaptations, volunteer networks, educated populace, and in place programs, give the necessary financial support to enable the chapter to network with families, member schools of the chapter, the local government units and community groups.

Last June 16, 2009, the first batch of trainees started their training program. This group was assessed on selected tasks, process and motor skills by the interns of UP-CAMP (University of the Philippines College of Medical Professions) last April 25, 2009. More trainees will be accepted to undergo appropriate modules that will incorporate live, play and work.

The events have proven that the vision of an enabling community is a truly a divine inspiration. We believe that “God keeps His promise to those who keep their purpose firm.” The faith we had held onto though the years made all these things possible. And we at ASP Laguna share this hope: Dream Big for Autism.

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Autistic and Proud!

Forwarded by Nini P. Clemente ASP National Member

Because of the updates you have been sending me, I learned about the Disability ID now being given by the local government units (LGUs), plus information on the full implementation of RA 9442 or "Magna Carta for Disabled Persons” Click here for a complete copy.

In Biñan, Laguna, where we reside, my son, Denver Patrick Pordesimo Clemente, 19, with autism, is now a proud card holder of PWD ID 014. It was so easy to apply for it. Last May 21, we went to the Social Welfare Unit in Biñan Municipal Hall, simply filled out the PWD ID application form. We were told to come back the following week. One week later, (May 28) Den and his elder brother, Jeffrey Allen, went back to claim the ID. They immediately went to Jollibee- Biñan Plaza Branch to celebrate.

At first, the attending sales clerk was unaware of the 20% discount due to Den. After talking to the branch manager and verifying of the privilege, Den was given the discount, and enjoyed his Jollimeal.

Denver holding his PWD ID

Den has also been making full use of for the past four years his PWD Transportation Discounted Fare ID Card No. 57188. Click here for more information.

Our family has decided for Den to wear his PWD ID where ever and when ever we go out. Others might also do so if they wish. The ID is big and is easy to view and read. My son Den proudly wears that, too.

Now….I will have to go back to the Municipio for my son’s medicine booklet. Click here to know more on the Medical Discounts for PWDs.

Again, thank you for the service you have been giving us, ASP members. I have also told family, friends and even strangers about this good news! God bless you all and Mabuhay kayong lahat!

Click here to view the complete list of cities and municipalities issuing PWD cards around the Philippines applying for the PWD ID is the right of every person with autism.It erases the stigma that PWAs are second class citizens and it also gives more bearing to the existing law that protects them.

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July 17 to 23, 2009 31st NDPR Week

According to NCDA (National Council for Disability Affairs), this year’s theme Tungo sa Katuparan ng Karapatan ng PWDs or Towards the Implementation of Rights for Persons with Disabilities recognizes the importance of PWDs to enjoy the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. Click here for more information

It covers many areas where persons with disabilities have been discriminated against including access to justice, participation in political and public life, education, employment, freedom from torture, exploitation and violence as well as freedom of movement. Providing them these rights would give them the opportunity to become independent and partners in nation-building.

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