Walking Happily Together

By: Cathy Genovia

ASP Cavite Chapters joined DSAPI’s “Stand UP for DOWN,” Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines’ Happy Walk last February 21, at SM North EDSA. The event commemorates the 8th National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month.

ASP delegates (photo by autism angel John Chua)

ASP Bacoor Chapter President, Ms. Jan Peña, was joined by her three young advocates, including son Muneer, CWA representative. Muneer held ASP’s Banner during the walk.

Around 2,000 children/adults with Downs, parents, friends, volunteers and supporters came to register as early as 8 am. After the Thanksgiving Mass at The Block of SM North EDSA, the Happy Walk proper started at 10am.

The Guardian Angels of Children with diff-ability, Mr. Hans Sy, President of SM Prime Holdings; Eng. Bien Mateo, Chair of SM Committee on Disability Affairs; Mr. John Chua, Certified Autism Angel and ASP Chair Emeritus, Dang Koe came in support of the event.

A brief program followed with simultaneous activities such as hip-hop dancing (Happy Dance); Amazing Walk (patterned after Amazing Race); different activity booths such as face painting, glitter tattoo, balloon making and a Photo and Art Exhibits, plus Therapy Sessions.

ASP, together with DSAPI and other PWD groups, will always STAND UP for children with diff-abilities. Joining forces means showing others we aim for more understanding and compassion. These children are no different than you and I. They also part of the community and deserve to enjoy the same rights as we do; for after all, we are all part of God’s creation.

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Convening for Autism

By: Cathy Genovia

A week after Valentine’s Day, ASP Trustee, Ms. Carmel Almendrala, received an invite from Fr. Luke Moortgart, Executive Director of Catholic Handicap Development (CHD). The said convention was held last February 20 at Paco Catholic School.

Yearly, the Special Education Assistance of CHD organizes a free “Special Education Convention.” Personal experiences from speakers inspire and encourage parent participants of children with special needs.

Ms. Carmel during the discussion of her journey with son Mike

Tita Carmel spoke about her journey with son Mike, “There were the periodic spells of tantrum and self-stemming, rigidity in his ways. But at the same time, in between these trying periods, he learned in a painfully slow way, how to read, to write, to count…”

the participants during the discussion

She talked about how they coped with the word autism, knowing that during their time, autism was a foreign word to them. Their family’s journey wasn’t easy, but now, Mike earns his place as a permanent employee in the Philippine Information Agency.

“It meant acceptance by the mainstream society of his existence as an individual who claims the same rights and obligations of a citizen of our country. It also serves as recognition, that a person with autism can contribute his own share to his community,” said Tita Carmel.

Other speakers Ms. Maria Cristina Belen, SpEd Educator; Ms Leticia Martin, In charge Profession in Special Education and Ms. Nancy Pascual, Senior Education Program Specialist; provided teachers and interested parties new insights in assisting, understanding and supporting the children with special needs.

ASP works hard together with more Autism Angels for a brighter tomorrow. On February 27, Teacher My Sorongon will talk about Siblings of children with disabilities. Interested parties may call 521-5876 to book a slot.

The book “Concerns of Adult Siblings of Persons with Autism” talks about the different challenges siblings of CWAs face and how they coped with their sibling’s diagnosis from childhood to adult life. Visit the ASP library at room 307, #47 Kamias Road QC or call 7-903-5496 for more information. Write us at autismphils@gmail.com to request for Understanding Autism seminar in your schools or institutions.

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Barangay Hopping in Makati

By Cathy Genovia

ASP went barangay hopping in Makati City for the most requested lecture series, the Early Detection and Early Intervention Program (EDEIP).

ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe

EDEIP Lecture Series aim to teach health workers, day care teachers and concerned parents at the barangay or grassroots level. Since they are usually the first ones who can address the initial needs of their constituents, ASP hopes to equip them in how to know or detect the early signs of autism.

EDEIP visited three barangays in Makati:

Barangay Bel-Air with the theme “Non-Handicapping Environment: A Key to PWDs inclusion”. Barangay Bel-Air was headed by Brgy Captain Victor Gomez Jr. who also welcomed the speakers and the participants. The closing remark was given by Kagawad Malyne Lorayes. The said seminar was hosted by Ms. Vivien Mangalindan.

From left: Barangay Captain Victor Gomez Jr., participants from Barangay Bel-Air and Kagawad Malyne Lorayes

Barangay Urdaneta with their seminar on “Understanding Autism, Accessibility and RA 9442” hyperlink The activity was organized by the PWD Federation officers headed by their president, Ms. Maureen Mata. It was hosted by Ms. Lalaine Guanzon.

From left: Ms. Gigi Ruiz, Ms. Lalaine Guanzon, Arch. Jaime Silva and the constituents of Barangay Urdaneta

Barangay Dasmariñas residents from different Makati Villagers joined the bgy. as part of their 39th Foundation Day, with the theme “Celebration of Hope through Productivity”. This was a joint project of Makati Villages thru Kagawad Nancy Uy who invited ASP.

During the Barangay hopping, ASP Chair Emeritus, Ms Dang Koe was joined by Arch. Jaime Silva of United Architects of the Philippines; Mr. Mateo Lee Jr. alternately with Ms. Gigi Ruiz of National Council on Disability Affairs.

Act Early

ASP National President, Ms Grace Adviento said in one of her interviews, “The earlier the parents know that their child has this condition, the earlier they will be given proper education/intervention. Denying it will not do their children any good, and overlooking this will just delay the development of their child.”

ASP continues to work hard to inform others about autism, and help empower families on how to help their children. To request for an Early Detection and Early Intervention of Autism Seminar in your area, please write us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496.

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Posted in: chapters,edeip,lgu

Autismo Sa Pinas: ASP Online Community Website Launched

In response to the growing needs of the Philippine Autism Community, ASP gives its constituents an opportunity to have their voices heard and thus the launching of ASP’s online community website, Autismo sa Pinas.

“Many Filipinos are daunted by autism. Most of the families feel lost and overwhelmed. All their anxieties can find relief if they had the information they need. A lot of this information comes from sharing and that's what's great about internet technology is that it allows people to immediately share information and resources. And most of all, they can find new friends who are in the same boat as they are in,” says ASP Trustee and Tech Visionary, Cristina Estampador.

ASP Community Website

The community site has a lot of interactive features, making it easy for the visitor to get information. Apart from the ASaP News; the site has the ASP Chapters and Resource Directories. An online message board allows online users to discuss on any topic surrounding autism where in some local experts will be asked to respond to some topics every now and then. The site also a booking system for seminars and events, in addition to a streamlined online membership registration. The site's "Be an Angel" page takes the user to more information on how to help and volunteer for ASP.

Another interactive component about the community site is that you can easily share articles through social networking sites, like Facebook and Multiply. ASP is encouraging its web visitors to express their comments as the site has that capability.

Aside from the ease and speed of internet communications, ASP members and chapters can readily access available resources through this site. "And there’s more to come. We’re going to keep on expanding in this direction,” says Ms. Estampador.

In our 21st year, ASP continues to work harder for the future of Filipino children with autism and their families. For more information visit our community website Autismo sa Pinas or call 7-903-5496.

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My name is Khan and I am not a Terrorist

By: Tiffany Tan ASP Board Secretary

Bollywood actor Shahrukh Khan stars as Rizwan Khan, a person with Aspergers Syndrome. The movie is a love story between Khan, who is a Muslim and his wife, who is Hindu. After the event in 911, he packs his bags to visit the president of the United States to tell him that he is not "a terrorist". A message of tolerance is preached.

The film is breaking box office records in India, UK and the US during the opening on Valentine’s Weekend. Click here to watch the Official Trailer or click here to watch trailer with subtitles

My name in Khan poster

Khan uses the mannerisms associated with Asperger's -- averted eyes, springy steps, stuttered repetitions of memorized texts -- yet captures the personality beneath the condition in a standout performance sure to receive the Autism Society's gold seal of approval. (Source: Variety)

In an interview in London, director and Karan Johar speaks of the character Khan: “His love goes beyond the boundaries of logic. And it is the kind of love that we heard of in another generation. Love is cynical. Love is too planned out. The pre-nuptial agreements-it is far too practical.”

“It is (the movie) is about a man who is not of our world. He had to do something illogical, completely beyond the boundaries of what you and I consider “accepted”, because he just takes what is said to him very seriously and nobody else would. Everybody else would bring logic into that. Khan just sees life in black and white, because that’s the way he is.” (Source: Desibox Media)

February is the love month. Show you care for someone with autism. Write us at autismphils@gmail.com and tell us your love story.

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Sporting Autism

By: Tiffany Tan ASP Board Secretary

Special Olympian Mike Almendrala, gold medalist Power Lifter, has been a loyal employee of Philippine Information Agency (PIA) since 1999. As a contractual employee, he worked his way to become a casual on 2002.

In 2005 he passed the accreditation exam through TESDA and went on to bag the Apolinario Mabini Award, the first person with autism to win the eligibility for Civil Service.

Recently, Special Olympics Philippines (SOP) launches “Be a Fan Campaign” launched in the hopes of promoting awareness of the rights of persons with disabilities. SOP is affiliated with Special Olympics International. Individuals with intellectual disabilities can avail of sports training to athletic competition.

The Special Olympics team during the Angels Walk last Jan 27,2010

Ms. Mariter Macapagal, ASP Trustee and President of Special Olympics Philippines said that PWDs could be taught skills and stressed that they should be also be accepted by society. Among the Athlete Representative of the Special Olympics Philippines is also a person with autism, Carmelo “Dacki” Sebastian Sandiego, who excels in badminton.

PWA Special Olympian Mike Almendrala with ASP Vice President, Ms. Peng So and his fans

ASP envisions an environment that empowers persons with autism to become, to the best of their potentials, self-reliant, productive and socially accepted members of the community.

PWA Mike Almendrala was accorded his permanent civil service position last November 2009. This assures him security of tenure. His mom, ASP Trustee Carmel Almendrala related Mike’s elation after receiving his letter of appointment: “I am now regular employee, no more contractual, no more casual.” His current status is further reinforced by the Magna Carta for People with Disabilities, a law that prohibits discrimination against PWDs in employment.

ASP commits to establishment of institutional mechanisms to support persons with autism and their families. Click here to know how you can help. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496 for more information.

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Is Manila still Mad?

By: Tiffany Tan

Actress Claire Danes was tapped in August 2008 to play Temple Grandin.

Temple Grandin’s life has been made into a biopic by HBO. Click here for more details on the film.

During a radio interview, Temple Grandin was quoted as saying Claire was “brilliant” in playing me. She totally changed into me. She totally turns into the character that she’s acting.” (Source: Talk of the Nation NPR.org)

During the filming of another movie, Broken Down Palace, some scenes were filmed in a dilapidated hospital in Manila. (Claire played an imprisoned American in Thailand for drug smuggling.)

In the 1998 interview with Premier Magazine, she was quoted as saying Manila “smelled of cockroaches, with rats all over, and that there is no sewerage system, and the people do not have anything - no arms, no legs, no eyes."

This triggered an outrage from Manila City Government and councilors passed a resolution to ban her movies indefinitely and demanded a public apology.

Claire has since apologized to the city and Filipino people, as only a reflection from the movie location site, and not as a general overview of Filipinos.

Husband and Wife Acting for Autism

Claire and husband Hugh Dancy

Interestingly, Claire’s husband, Hugh Dancy, also played an autistic person in the 2009 Sundance Winner, “Adam,” a story about a person with Aspergers finding love.

Click here to watch trailer

“Well, my husband played an autistic person six months before I did this, in Adam. So that was curious,” Claire hinted.

“But Temple is no ordinary autistic person. She’s a superstar, and she’s a pioneer, and the first person to write about it as somebody who has it. And that was radical. That was, kind of by definition, impossible, because they weren’t able to communicate with others. She managed to do that so well, and with such clarity. I think that’s what defines [the movie] for me.” (Source: movieline.com)

Turning on a new leaf

Personally, I think Claire Danes has already redeemed herself from the 1998 comment by accepting the role as Temple Grandin, and by her husband’s role in Adam.

I’m purely basing my sentiments on both the trailers alone. (It has been 12 years already!) Claire, you’re forgiven.

Still not convienced? Click here to Claire on the teaser.

Visit the ASP Library at Room 307 ML Bldg. #47 Kamias Rd. Quezon City or call us at 7-903-5496 to read books and videos on Temple Grandin.

1. The Way I See It: A Personal Look at Autism and Asperger'
2. Emergence: Labeled Autistic
3. Autism on hidden epidemic
4. Understanding Autism

ASP library

Want to donate books and videos for the ASP Library, write us at autismphis@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496 for details.

Temple Grandin's biopic is not yet available in HBO Asia.

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Happy trip, angels!

By Dang Uy Koe

A person with autism may keep on repeating phrases read from airports’ posters on bomb threat or hijacking; or he may resist passing through metal detectors or being frisked.

Several parent support groups (Autism Society Philippines, Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines and ADHD Society of the Philippines) are now collaborating with a local airline in making air travel friendlier to passengers with special needs. Policies on customer service are now being reviewed, aside from orienting managers and front liners.

One critical concern is dealing with security issue when traveling by plane. From the security personnel’s point of view, the behavior of a person or child with autism (PWA/CWA) may make them anxious.

Examples: an “echolalic” PWA may keep on repeating phrases read from airports’ posters on bomb threat or hijacking; he may resist passing through metal detectors or being frisked.

Tantrums are also magnified when confined inside a plane.

Left unexplained, behaviors like those mentioned above may delay their trip and cause anxiety. These are also the types of situations that can easily escalate into verbal and physical confrontations, and maybe even physical containment and restraint.

While we continue to advocate for an autism-friendly environment, everything begins at home.

Angel Talker Tiffany Tan helped us collate experiences from other parents to avoid painful misinterpretations of PWAs. Parents and companions of traveling PWAs may consider the following tips:

Plan travel in advance.

Call the airlines. Ask what you can do to help the security process go more smoothly for the PWA. If the trip has to be made suddenly, arrive extra early and explain what your CWA’s needs are.Your CWA may need special seating arrangement.

ASP National President Grace Adviento realized after her son’s first flight that it is better for them to be seated in the front row. Bored, her son Adrian moved about his seat and accidentally kicked the seat in front of him several times, which disturbed their co-passengers.

Other preferences – such as back of the aircraft, near the aisle, window or lavatory can be arranged during the time of ticketing or at least 48 hours in advance. However, seats along emergency exits cannot be given to those who may need assistance in times of emergency.

There are airlines that offer assistance program for a fee. The program offers personal assistance through the crucial security checkpoints: from check-in, through security and boarding, and through the destination airport.

Prepare your child.

• Social stories. Make a social stories booklet to help prepare your child for a flight. Review the process with him. Do it over and over for at least two weeks.

The Manchester Airport (UK) developed the Airport Awareness program for children with autism. It is a practical guide that can be used for any airport experience. The guide is provided for free at Manchester Airport, but they have also placed the entire guide online for free, and printable.

The guide goes step by step from “ways to get to the airport” to “the journey of your suitcase.” It provides checklists such as “Did you see or hear? (“the walk-through metal detectors...the machines beeping”). It also has lots of pictures to accompany each section, and space to write down worries that the young traveler with autism may have.

• Desensitization. If your CWA has not traveled on a plane before, or you are going from a new airport, or on a bigger/smaller plane, you may like to bring your CWA to the airport before your flight. This will help your child to understand what the airport is like, as well as allowing him to experience the journey to the airport before you go.

You can help desensitize the child by exposing him to the noise of airplanes, or helping him to get used to sitting down with a seat belt fastened. Some airlines/airports are able to organize tours around an aircraft or on a simulator to help people with disabilities.

As early as 2004, the Special Partners for Autism on Recreation, Knowledge and Socialization (SPARKS) was able to arrange a fieldtrip with the local airline. SPARKS family members were accommodated on the ground plane complete with orientation from the airlines personnel.

JR with his mom Tiffany and the airline crews

Carry and autism information kit. This can include:

• Basic handouts, like ASP brochures, containing basic information on autism. Make sure to carry enough copies to leave behind with the airport/airline security personnel you may encounter.

• Personalized handouts. ASP board trustee Gina Bermudo always carry with her “calling cards” that inform people “our son has autism”, a brief definition of autism, how their family is “doing their best to deal with it” and will appreciate understanding from the public. Aside from the security personnel, she immediately hands it to people who look or stare at them when either of her two sons with autism starts behaving differently.

Your personalized handout may also include a short description about your child, a photo and some short information. You may also want to include your contacts in case your child is lost.

Dad Glen Adviento shares: “We also wear t-shirts or buttons to let people around us know that someone in our family has autism. It has always resulted in a positive reaction from people instead of a negative one when our son would have tantrums, in the airport or no matter where we are.”

PWA Desly riding the plane

• Medical certificate indicating the child’s specific need for an appliance may help explain to a ground crew or flight attendant the specific need better.

ASP’s board trustee and Metro South Chapter President Evert Malapad’s daughter had to wear earphones to protect her from the noise of the plane. The flight attendant allowed her to keep the headset provided the music was turned off. They had a medical certificate signifying her need for the device due to her autism and sensory problems.

Bring you child's individualized baon

Each CWA has his own unique needs. Let us not assume the airlines can provide all of them. Better over-prepared than sorry.

• Communication boards or other aides.

• Object/s of interest. Some children with autism have the need for a special toy (a doll) or object (favorite book) to comfort them during a long trip.

• Carry-on appliance, such as ear muffs or ear plugs to help with sensory issues.

• Medication, if your child is under medication, be sure to bring it along the plane ride together with the doctor’s prescription. Some doctors, when necessary, may prescribe your child with something to help him calm down.

• Chewing gum or candy that may help ease pains on the ears during take-off and landing.

• Special diet, like gluten-free casein-free diet (or GFCF diet) popular among families dealing with autism, but which may not be offered by any airline.

• Additional food or snacks to pass the time.

• Depending on the CWA’s interests, maybe toys, video games, crayons, coloring book, Legos, PlayDough, DVD.

Putting on seat belts, locking our back doors, paying the life insurance are common sense options associated with everyday life. Taking extra precautions is also an everyday consideration that parents of CWA should also become accustomed to.

When traveling with our children with autism, taking the precautions, considering the needs of others, anticipating the possibilities. These can help make our family trips safer and more relaxing. Happy trip!

Source: Manila Bulletin February 14, 2010, 12:58pm

Autism Society Philippines conducts orientation on understanding autism to make community integration easier for Filipinos with autism. This includes handling customers with autism for commercial establishments like SM Malls, Robinsons Malls, Ayala Malls and Cebu Pacific Airlines. For details, visit www.autismsocietyph.org.

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Posted in: parenting,travel

Manila Jaycees for Autism

By: Ranil Sorongon ASP Executive Director

ASP celebrates the love month with a Post-Valentine Educational Field Trip schedule on February 27, 2010. Thirty (30) CWA from ASP Commonwealth Chapter, Stimulation and Therapeutic Activity Center (STAC) and UP College of Medical Professions Therapy Services will visit the ARK Avilon Zoo in Pasig City.

The Manila Jaycees through Mr. Mario Dizon, a father of a child with autism, met with ASP Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon to discuss a possible partnership. An agreement was reached for an Educational Field Trip for children with autism (CWA) and their parents.

Manila Jaycees with ASP members during their meeting for

their upcoming Post-Valentine Educational Field Trip

The Manila Jaycees is the oldest leadership development organization in the Philippines and in Asia. It was formed primarily to fill the need to properly channel the energies and idealism of the Filipino youth into an organization that undertakes activities and projects that would eventually rebound to benefit the community as a whole.

The first project, Educational Field Trip, will provide bonding time opportunities for the CWAs and their parents, as well as see and feed the domesticated animals at the ARK. The Manila Jaycees will sponsor the groups’ transportation, food, entrance fee. Simple gifts and pictures will be taken home as souvenirs.

A second planned nation-wide Autism Awareness Campaign Project between ASP and the Manila Jaycees will include the distribution of posters bearing the signs and symptoms of autism. These posters will be placed in Barangay Health Centers, Day Care Centers and also in public and private schools. The project will be done in partnership with local government units and business establishments.

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Soon…. A Regional Autism Organization for Southeast Asia

By: Ranilo Sorongon, ASP Executive Director

One of the concrete results from the just concluded Capacity Development of Self-Help Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (CDSHOD) Workshop held last January 26 to 29, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. Click here to follow thread.

Through the initiative of Mr. Akiie Ninomiya, Executive Director of Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) and Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, ACPD Networking and Collaboration Manager; plus representatives from autism organizations in the Philippines, Thailand, Brunei Darusalam, Myanmar and Vietnam; the core-group discussed issues and concerns relative to autism in their respective countries.

They also brainstormed the importance of having a Regional Autism Organization solely dedicated to autism with the following objectives:

C - Cooperate, Coordinate, Collaborate
A - Advocate and Actively Participate
R – Resource and Research Centre
E - Engage and Empower through Training, Education and Development

The members of the core group that signified the establishment of a regional autism network are: Mr. Ranilo Sorongon, Executive Director, Autism Society Philippines (ASP); Mr. Malai Abdullah Othman, President of Society for the Management of Autism Related Issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER), Brunei Darusalam; Mr. Chusak Janthayanond, Chairman of the Association of Parents for Thai Persons with Autism; Mrs. NguyenThi Thu Trang of Hanoi Club for Parents of Autistic Children, Vietnam ; and Mr. Kyaw Htut of Myanmar.

Philippine representative, Ranil Sorongon, was tasked gather inputs from the core-group to be used in drafting the concept paper for the organization.

With the support of APCD, the dream of having a Regional Autism Organization will soon become a reality; promoting autism awareness and advocacy for the rights of persons with autism in the Southeast Asian region.

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ASP Elected as Member of the PWD Sectoral Council

By: Ranil Sorongon, ASP Executive Director

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon was elected as member to the 21 Member Sectoral Council of the National Anti-Poverty Commission, Persons with Disabilities (NAPC-PWD).

The PWD Sectoral Assembly election was participated by 65 PWD leaders and parents of children with disabilities from 17 regions of the country. The event took place last February 5 -7, 2010 at the Manila Bay View Hotel.

Being the only Parent Support Organization present among the 8 National Federations of PWDs, ASP was granted an automatic slot to join the assembly.

ASP’s membership means children with intellectual disabilities and their families will be represented and will be assured that their issues and concerns will be heard and addressed.

ASP will engage the different PWD leaders of the regions to look into the welfare of children with disabilities and partner with ASP to reach to families affected with autism in their locality.

The National Anti Poverty Commission (NAPC) was created thru the Republic Act 8425, the Social Reform and Poverty Alleviation Act of 1998, better known as the NAPC Law.

The Sectoral Council (SC) is the highest consultative, deliberative and policy review and formulation body of each of the 14 basic sector on anti poverty and right based issues for the respective sector.

The SC is the Basic Sector Wing of NAPC tasked to also engage with any government agency to promote and advocate for the welfare of the PWD sector.

The SC of the PWD sector decided to adopt the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) as its main advocacy instrument in engaging with the Philippine Government.

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Love Conquers All

An inspiring story of a father’s love and sacrifice for his daughter with autism.

Mae Mae was diagnosed with autism at age 2½ years old. As ordinary parents, Evert and Apple Malapad were shocked to hear from what was being said by the doctor about their daughter’s condition. They sought a second opinion. The verdict was the same.

Knowing only a little information on autism, both decided to seek help by attending a Family Support Group in ASP’s Office at Quezon City.

The family budget took a toll on addressing Mae-Mae’s schooling and therapy in the next four years. With both Evert and Apple working, they resolved to make her a priority by adjusting their expenditures.

“One Christmas, we had to forgo upgrading our cellphones and buying new clothes. We were able to save some money for her therapy,” Evert shared.

ASP Metro South Chapter President, Mr. Evert Malapad and daughter Mae-mae

Drastic move

Another visit to the doctor for assessment came. Mae-Mae’s progress was quite slow. In order to catch up on the goals set for her, aside from the therapy; the doctor recommended a tailor-made home program.

“How do I go from being in car repairs to teaching a special child? On my mind were car spare parts. Now, the challenge is how to teach my daughter to identify the color red.”

Evert then, was working as a senior technician and managing two auto repair shops; while supervising 5 skilled technicians. On top of the situation, their house hold helper left after staying only with them for three months. To hire another one will take so much time and effort in training. The decision didn’t take long for Evert to make. He quit his high paying job to concentrate on Mae-Mae.

“Those three months were the toughest. It was a huge struggle for me, but I knew I had to equip myself to meet her needs. I started attending ASP seminars every month and gained techniques and strategies for Mae-Mae’s home program.“

According to Evert, the implementation constituted a lot of determination and sacrifice. Within two years, they provided her with six programs.

Life Endangered

One of the six programs was community integration. The family wanted to include Mae-Mae in their Sunday Worship. Evert decided to have a desensitization program for her, so he prepared Mae-Mae, and drove to the nearby church to make her get familiarized with the church surroundings.

“When Mae-Mae started having tantrums, I quickly carried her to the car. The incident almost cost me my life, when a subdivision security guard was about to grab his service pistol to stop me. He thought that I was a kidnapper! Whew!”

Shifting Gears

Three years went by and Mae-Mae showed a remarkable improvement in her behavior, communication and social skills. “I learned to be patient and consistent. And the whole experience of implementing the programs not only benefited me, but the whole family.”

Evert shifted his gears from car repairs to writing his masteral thesis in Special Education. He presently handles an adult special needs program in a special school in Las Piñas. On top of his new carrier, Evert serves as President of ASP Metro-South and ASP National Trustee.

“Mae-Mae became a teacher to us. If not for her, we will not be advocates of special children. We would not have become trainers to other parents of children with autism. Mae-Mae brings us to many places – to lectures, to share and bring hope to other parents. And more importantly, Mae-Mae has taught us- love conquers all.”

===========================

February is the love month. Show you care for people in the spectrum. To request for Lectures and Seminars for parents of CWA or for community workers, write to autismphils@gmail.com or call at 7-903-5496.

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Life Begins at Forty

By: Ranil Sorongon, ASP Executive Director

“My sister will be celebrating her birthday tomorrow and in lieu of gifts, she has requested her friends and relatives for donations which she will give to her chosen charity. I have a son with special needs, so my sister knows the huge expenses that parents have to shell out just to address the needs of their child,” came an email message during the heart of ASP’s Autism Consciousness Week Celebrations.

I suddenly remembered the parents from the lowest social strata of Quezon City. They really strive hard to bring their children with autism to school. Initiated by Special Educators, Teachers Evelyn and Lorna; ASP Commonwealth Chapter was born. The youngest chapter is based in Commonwealth Elementary School (CES), a public school offering SPED programs.

ASP Commonwealth Chapter President, Mrs. Lilia Taroy, is a single parent with two children with special needs. With the hope of seeing CWAs as productive and socially accepted members of society; the educators also help the parent members by providing guidance to the officers.

Last February 8, together with her sister, Tonggay de Leon-Diokno and her friend, Mayette Garcia-Horrigan, Autism Angel, Ms. Machez de Leon-Aguas, visited CES-SPED. A short program of songs and dances from the children welcomed the guests. Teacher Evelyn gave a brief history of the CES-SPED program while Mrs. Taroy welcomed the visitors in behalf of the parents.

Machez just turned 40 last January 13 and in recognition of the many blessings she has received for the past 39 years of her life, she decided to celebrate her 40th birthday by asking her friends and relatives to give her donations in lieu of gifts for her special day. Ms. Machez is dubbed as the “Autism Angel” due to her philanthropic services planned for CES-SPED.

The fund will be used to provide services to children with disabilities and their families at Commonwealth Elementary School. A brief consultation of the needs of the children and the parents followed after the programs for the benefactors. The meeting provided information to set priorities in the establishment of more lasting programs and services, in partnership with the parents and the school.

What a meaningful way to celebrate your birthday. Share the blessings you received to children with autism and their families. Write autismphils@gmail.com to find out how.

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An Angel’s First Walk

By: Mary Mae Ignacio, ASP Member

I had a great time during the Angels Walk for Autism 2010. It was the first time for me and my family to join and I was beside myself with so much joy that did not end with the event. The lingering feeling is something I can't seem to describe. I kept telling my husband I was so happy that we decided to join the walk.

Because I was hyped up, my husband asked me if the event achieved its objectives: Did it make us — parents, relatives and friends of persons with autism (PWA) — come together? Did the walk make other people aware of the existence of PWAs? Did it make them understand PWAs more?

As a mother of a PWA, the event made an even greater impact on me. I was filled with so much gratitude, relief and a sense of purpose. I have so much gratitude for my family and friends who came to the event. Their presence not only showed their support for the cause, but more importantly, they affirmed their acceptance of and support for my son, Miggy.

Miggy during the Angels Walk for Autism

Miggy and his family during their first Angels Walk for Autism

In the beginning, it was not easy to hear from doctors that my son was not a typical boy. And I knew that it was going to be even more difficult to admit to people that he had autism. Yet, my great love for Miggy enabled me to accept his condition more easily. For my family, though, I know, it was not as easy. That was why it meant so much to me to see them and friends walking so proudly with Miggy.

I am truly grateful to the Philippine Association of Speech Pathologists for letting our flock join their group and for becoming advocates for PWAs. I am relieved to know that their efforts to promote awareness and understanding of PWAs would enable more people to be accepting of those with autism.

I feel a greater sense of purpose because there are more tasks to do. To promote awareness and understanding is not enough. I have already begun formulating ideas that have to do with ensuring that PWAs like Miggy have a rightful place in this world and also as participating citizens of society.

Angels have wings to fly and soar up in the sky. But angels can walk, too, and help flowers grow on the path they tread.

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ASaP News Team would like to thank readers for sending their stories to us. Write us about your experience and comments during our walk at admin@autismsocietyph.org. Until our next Walk angels..

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A Robin Spreads its Wings

ASP priority project in spreading Autism Awareness reaches another mall. This time, ASP received an invitation from Robinson’s Malls. Just this February 11, the mall hosted a lecture on Raising Awareness for Customers with Disabilities/Needing Special Care to 45 participants - Luzon mall managers and other department heads.

An estimated 1% of the world’s populations are on the autism spectrum, (source: World Autism Awareness Day). If we use this ratio to the number of people coming in Robinsons Malls (an estimated daily foot traffic of one million), does this mean 10,000 Filipinos with autism visit your malls daily?

Ms. Dang Koe, Chair Emeritus of ASP; and different leader representatives from PWD organizations were invited to give their expertise on their advocacies.

The speakers and all the participants were welcomed by Mr. Tante Felipe Vice President for Human Resources of Robinsons Land Corporation at Robinson Galleria’s Training Room. According to their website’s corporate profile, their malls generate about 120 million visits annually; and serving customers with utmost professionalism and dedication is part of Robinson Malls’ corporate commitment.

ASP Chair Emeritus Ms Dang Koe and Vice President for Human Resources

of Robinsons Land Corporation Mr. Tante Felipe

We would like to thank Robinson Malls’ Human Resources Department for this initial orientation; our PWD partners: Arch. Jaime Silva, from United Architects of the Philippines; Mr. Antonio Pasia, Chairman of Downs Syndrome Association of the Philippines (DSAPI); and Ms. Jojo Nepomuceno of AD/HD Society of the Philippines.

ASP will continue to work hard for a more PWD friendly environment. To request for an Autism Orientation in your commercial establishments, please write us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496.

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Giant Leaps… Transcending Boundaries Continues!

By: Ranilo Sorongon, ASP Executive Director

After the tremendous success of the 14th National Autism Consciousness Celebrations; ASP flies to Thailand with the invitation to join Capacity Development of Self-Help Organizations of Persons with Disabilities Workshop (CDSHOD).

The workshop was held last January 26 to 29, 2010 at Prince Palace Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand. Delegates with vision, hearing, mobility disabilities; together with parents and their children with disabilities came from Southeast Asian Region; including Timor Leste.

The Philippines was represented by ASP Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon; Abner Manlapaz of Life Haven; Loloy Mercado of Katipunan ng May Kapansanan sa Pilipinas (KAMPI) and Baby Padasas of Resources for the Blind, Cebu City Office.

participants of Capacity Development of Self-Help Organizations

of Persons with Disabilities Workshop (CDSHOD)

The workshop was organized by the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) in partnership with Disabled Peoples International; with the support of the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Nippon Foundation.

The workshop aimed to:

1. Further develop the capacity of Self-Help Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (SHOs) and to strengthen SHOs and promote inclusive development,

2. Increase understanding of the ASEAN mechanism through dialogue, and apply this to the enhancement of ASEAN regional collaboration through the active involvement of SHOs

3. Exchange information on the progress made in relation to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), Biwako Millennium Framework (BMF) and BMF+5 in ASEAN countries.

The five day workshop was very productive; the speakers and facilitators enlightened the participant PWDs and parents of children with disabilities.

One defining factor that stood out was the mutual respect, without discrimination, among the delegates. Everyone was given a chance to facilitate, share and ask questions-with respect, dignity and acceptance.

Lectures Beyond Borders

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon was invited by APCD to give the following lectures:

The lecture, “Sustainable Management-The ASP Experience,” focused on how in 2002, ASP was at the brink of closing down due to internal problems and dire financial strains and how ASP rebounded to become one of the most dynamic and stable PWD Parent Support Organizations in the Philippines.

The lecture, “Resource Mobilization-The ASP Experience,” was given to a small group of delegates, focused on the basics of ASP’s fund raising activities during special events and advocacy events.

During the closing ceremonies, Mr. Sorongon also assigned to facilitate the Summation of Events and Learning Experiences from different participants.

Our sincerest thanks to the following: Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA); Nippon Foundation and Disabled Peoples International of Asia Pacific (DPI –AP); to all volunteers and Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) staff; and most especially to Mr. Akiie Ninomiya, APCD Executive Director; for the success of the trail blazing activity.

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Alyana Film Showing in Rosales, Pangasinan

By: Abegail Mendoza – ASP Program Assistant

ASP Rosales, Pangasinan Chapter will have a special screening of Alyana on March 11, 2010 8:30am. Click here to watch the trailer.

Digital poster of Alyana

Alyana, is the first digital Philippine documentary on autism. Produced by Ms. Mirana Medina, the film erases the misconceptions about autism and encourages viewers to have more compassion and understanding to persons with autism and their families.

ASP Rosales, Pangasinan Chapter is inviting members and participant from neighboring towns, such as Cuyapo Nueva Ecija, Tarlac and Dagupan City. Please contact Ms. Thea Cayaban at 0920-551-0025 for more information.

To request for ALYANA film showing in your school or university, click here or call us at 7-903-5496.

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ASP Family Support Group for February 2010

Share your hopes and dreams with us. We will listen.

This month’s facilitator is Ms. Perlita So, The newly appointed ASP National Vice-President. Mommy Peng is a graduate of BS Food Technology at the University of Sto. Tomas.

Momie Peng with sons Patrick and Angelo

She is a hands-on mom to her two boys in the spectrum, Patrick and Angelo. Patrick, Math and Science Wizard, is now a freshman at Ateneo de Manila University. Angelo is a 6th grader at PWU-JASMS.

Peng can whip-up a gourmet GF/CF dinner for Patrick and Angelo, attend to all her duties as a VP, juggle her time to help out in the family business and even manage to look spectacular. She is also ASP Board of Trustees’ fashion consultant.

Sign up now and learn practical tips on parenting and how to advocate for your child with autism. Know the secret weapon to a fruitful life with children in the spectrum!

FREE Registration!

Date: February 20, 2010, 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!

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It's Raining Men!

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

Don’t forget to watch action star, Tom Cruise (Mission Impossible) and comedian, Dustin Hoffman (Meet the Fockers) in the 1998 Oscar winner for Best Picture, “Rain Man” on Star Movies Asia, tonight at 11:10pm. Click here for more details.

Rain Man poster

Hoffman’s unforgettable role as an autistic savant also landed him an Oscar for Best Actor. He plays Raymond, older brother to Charlie (Cruise), who tried everything to exploit his brother for his fair share of the trust-fund his diseased millionaire father left for Raymond. Raymond is kidnapped by Charlie, and both begin an adventure of discovery. For Raymond, is the discovery of the outside world (in this movie, he is confined in an institution). For Charlie, it’s understanding of his brother’s autism; finally learning and doing what is best for Raymond. The film is about acceptance and brotherly love.

February is the love month. Watch Rain Man for your loved one with autism. Tell others and spread autism awareness. Rain Man is also available in our ASP Library. To request for Understanding Autism Orientation in your school campus or institution, call ASP at 7-903-5496 or email us at autismphils@gmail.com.

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Bridging the GAPH for Autism

ASP Board members and Chapter Leaders attended the successful 3-day International Autism Conference last February 3-5, 2010.

ASP Chair Emeritus, Dang Koe, moderated the Plenary Session on Autism Speaks GAPH (Global Autism Public Health Initiative)

PWA talents were also highlighted with ASP’s Colors of A Spectrum Project – a collection of photos by professional photographers headed by Certified Autism Angel, John Chua, and children with autism.

Live performances by ASP’s WAAD (World Autism Awareness Day) performer, Tum-Tum Mendoza and ASP Dream Girls who gave one of their best performances, eliciting paparazzi and new international fans! (Keep checking the blog for more news on the girls).

the ASP Dreamgirls with the foreign speakers

of the said International Autism Conference at the PICC

Doctors’ Visit and Diagnoses
Yesterday, February 11, Dr. Alexis Reyes, President of the Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (PSDBP) and associate, Dr. Tippy Tanchanco, visited the ASP Office.

Together with them are Ms. Cecil Sicam (one of the pioneers and co-founders of ASP) and served as the President from 2002-2004 and Ms. Christine “Chrissy” Roa, who also served ASP as Vice President from 2005-2007.

(seated from left) ASP-Treas. Ms. Evelyn Go, Teacher Cecil Sicam,

Dr. Alexis Reyesand ASP-Trustee Ms. Carmel Almendrala.

(standing from left) ASP-Board Sec. Ms. Tiffany Tan,

ASP- Exec.Dir. Mr. Ranil Sorongon, Dr. Tippy Tanchanco,

Chair Emeritus Dang Koe, Ms. Chrissy Roa and ASP-VP Peng So.

As member of the ASP Honorary Board of Advisors, Dr. Alexis Reyes identified with the ASP Board Officers ASP top priority programs; mainly in relation to the forthcoming GAPH initiative in the country.

PARENT EDUCATION was first on the agenda. With more than an estimated 600 thousand Filipinos dealing with autism, the increasing demand for professional services and schools (especially outside Metro Manila) remain scarce.

Second on the list is AUTISM AWARENESS CAMPAIGN. Currently, there are 42 Chapters around the country. Autism is still viewed among remote rural folk as “curse” or “being caused by evil spirits”. Both private and public professionals also need better understanding of autism to become effective partners in providing support and services to families in provincial areas.

ASP and the PSDBP will also collaborate on a centralized autism registry that will serve as database for future research.

Dr. Tippy Tanchanco graciously agreed in helping ASP conduct Focus Group Discussions among ASP Chapter Leaders to thresh out details of the priority programs. ASP will also schedule its Chapter Leaders Conference this year.

Invitation to visit

Dr. Alexis invited ASP to visit the new Atty. Jose Miguel T. Arroyo's Developmental and Behavior Studies Unit at the Philippine General Hospital. The facility will accommodate families seeking assessment and diagnosis of children with developmental disabilities. It will also serve as family resource center, which includes training and other support services.

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Now on its 21st year, ASP continues to work harder for the future of Filipinos families dealing with autism; Sharing Hopes and Building Dreams beyond borders, bridging the GAPH for autism.

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NACW Celebrations Around the Country

Carrying the torch of autism awareness, ASP Chapters embarks on their week long 14th Autism Consciousness Week Celebrations.

ASP Cebu Chapter

“One for Autism” This is the theme chosen by Ms. Sandra Espina, ASP Cebu Chapter President. With only a few days after the merry making of New Year, Cebu Chapter geared up on 2009 to 2011 with a revival of commitment, setting new directions for its members.
Cebu had a busy week with their first Angels Walk for Autism; followed by Art Exhibits and Colors of A Spectrum Photography Exhibit; Fashion Show; Autism Hour and Autism Chat.

ASP Cebu Chapter Angels Walk for Autism at SM Cebu City

Fashion Models during the Finale

An autism forum was held at the SM City Cebu, Entertainment Plaza. Panelists were headed by guest of honor, ASP National President, Grace Adviento

ASP Cebu Chapter VP, Haidee Fajardo (in white) and ASP-Cebu President, Sandra Espina (in black)

during the SM City Orientation on Autism to all SM frontlines, staff and tenants

To show team spirit, Sandra leads ASP Cebu officers Haidi F. Fajardo, VP; Socorro Deligero, Secretariat; Cyril Borja, Auditor; were joined by Mark Saballa, Events Coordinator, Atty. Donabel Bilocura and Jerry Roa, parent.

Other partners were Meanne A. Solomon – Rotary Club of Cebu Fuente and Rheybie Nipas, SM Committee on Disability Affairs.

Chapter members also had radio guestings at DYRF Radio – “Oras sa Jaycee’s” anchored by Charmaine Ong and Fred Quinio. Local media entities, Cebu Sun Star and Cebu Daily News covered the whole week’s celebrations. Click here to read more on the celebrations.

ASP Cavite Chapters

Inspired by the just concluded Autism Beyond Borders Conference, ASP Cavite Chapters spearheads the 1st Regional Conference on Autism. With the Caviteños and nearby Chapters in mind, ASP Cavite “Gobernadora”, Jan Peña created a more affordable and localized version of ABB, she dubbed the conference “Autism Within Borders”. The conference was held from January 9 to 10 at the De La Sallle-Health Science Institute, Dasmariñas City, Cavite.

“Bigatin at Sariling Atin” speakers filled the two day lectures.

On family empowerment: Ms. Rosalyn Marie Sorongon, ASP EDEIP trainer, focused on “The CWA and the Family: Empowering Parents and Siblings”. Ms. Alyssa Ann Lungay, Speech Pathologist, gave a talk on “Communicating with CWA: “Empowering Family and Community”; while ASP Trustee and SPED Teacher, Ms. Noemi Viado spoke on “Empowered Care Living: The Family as Interventionist”.

Believing that society plays an important role in the lives of PWAs, advocate and former Carmona Mayor, Dr. Dahlia Loyola, lectured on her city’s experience on “Empowering LGUs towards Empowering PWDs”; while Ms. Katherine Lopez, ASP Laguna Vice President presented one of ASP’s pilot projects on " Empowering Community towards Empowering Adults PWAs". Click here to read more about the project.

ASP Bacoor Chapter President and Gobernadora ng Cavite Ms. Jan Peña and Head, Neurodevelopmental Center DLS-HSI, Dr. Madeleine Grace Sosa

Health is wealth. Dr. Madeleine Grace Sosa, Neurologist, Head-Neurodevelopmental Center-DLS-HSI, lectured on “Seizing Seizures: Knowing and Overcoming the Red Flags”; Mr. Arnold Alegre, Director of Hope Intervention Center lectured on “Empowering Body Against Developmental Blocks: A Dietary & Drug Free Option” and dentist, Dr. Katheryn Laguilles, on “Dentally yours: Empowering Families against Decay”.

Show of force from the ASP Cavite Chapters: Bacoor, Carmona, Dasmariñas, Molino, Tanza, Trece Martirez, and Cavite-North were seen during the 2010 Angels Walk, January 27 at SM Mall of Asia, having the largest number of chapter participants!

ASP Baguio Chapter

Second servings satisfied ASP Baguio Chapter members as they had back to back second takes on the following projects. ASP Baguio Chapter is headed by Jennifer Gundran.

Professional photographer Ompong Tan and 30 photo enthusiasts, joined 19 children with autism and other special needs kidsfor the second “Colors Of A Spectrum” workshop on January 10. The event took place at Baguio Centennial and Botanical Garden, was organized by the chapter, in cooperation with Play & Say Therapy Clinic. The collection of photos is currently on exhibit until February 28 at the SM City Baguio Basement Gallery.

Alvin and the Chipmunks, ASP Baguio Chapter’s 2nd Sensory Friendly Movie, was organized by Ms. Jane Rose Teodoro of PMA Bantay Laya’ 94 Ladies Club and Justine Paluo, speech pathologist and manager of Play and Say Therapy Center. The film was shown last January 30, at SM Cinema 4. Baguio City also sponsored 100 tickets which were discounted at 20%, as per PWD benefit. Snacks were also distributed to the children.

ASP Cagayan de Oro Chapter

Answering the text brigade messages of “Please come in Angel Costumes,” all co-officers and members converged at SM City CDO for the January 23 Family Fun Day. Little angels looked like they just came down from heaven and brightened the mall’s atmosphere as they toured around the mall, in their version of the Angels Walk.

A short program followed with Dayanah Gandamrah of Procare Foundation rendering a dance and song number. Engr. Jiryn O. Encong and Ms Cons Arce, manager and assistant mall managers awarded Renzo Orias of Theralinks Asia School with the “best angel” award.

A swimming party was held on in honor of ASP Family Members, supporters, sped teachers, therapists and friends at the Bethany Retreat House. The activities were headed by ASP-CDO Chapter President, Ms. Angie Abellanosa.

ASP Iloilo Chapter

An inspirational talk by mom and dad; a simple program of song and dance; a simple walk around the mall – autism awareness was generated, inspiring other members of the community for understanding and compassion on children with autism. SM Iloilo City in partnership with ASP Iloilo Chapter headed by Edith Jardeleza, continues to Share Hopes and Build Dreams.

Officers and members of ASP-Iloilo Chapter

ASP Lagro Chapter

Celebrity guest Kapuso Alfred Vargas joined ASP Lagro Chapter in celebrating the 14th National Autism Week at the Block of SM Fairview. He entertained the members with songs and soon children swarmed up to have photo-ops with him. ASP Lagro Chapter is headed by Marieta Tan in partnership with SM Fairview.

ASP Metro South
Balik-ASP Trustee and ASP Metro-South Chapter President, Evert Malapad collaborates with the Ann Arbor Montessori in Parañaque and ASP EDEIP Trainer, Teacher My Sorongon to talk on the different struggles of siblings of children with autism. The seminar was attended by 35 parents and professionals.

ASP Mandaluyong

Having been used to hearing the Mandaluyong City theme song, Cid, a child with autism suddenly played the City March on an electric organ. Surprising even his caretaker cousin, other Chapter members and even the mayor, it was discovered on that day, that Cid can widow (play music by ear).

Cid, a child with autism is also the third placer of On-the-Spot art contest this year, which was held at DENR. He also inspired other children to show off their talents in drawing as they filled blank pages with colors and wonderful drawings for their parents.

The event also paved way for Discussion on Autism during the Flag Ceremonies. ASP Mandaluyong Chapter also called the office about renewing its commitment in empowering members in the community.

ASP Laguna Chapter

“Save the best for last,” as the saying goes, ASP Laguna Chapter held their traditional Laguna Friendship Games. The event was participated by different nearby schools of Laguna. ASP Chapter President Riza Cansanay called the office today that they are organizing the first prom for teens with autism. Stay glued to the blog for more updates.

Now with 42 Chapters and counting, ASP Chapters remains committed to the same mission, working hand in hand, going beyond limits, and surpassing all obstacles to make this world a better place for our loved ones with autism.

We continue to take giant leaps and transcend boundaries for autism. To know more about the ASP NACW Celebrations, click here. To know more about the Angels Walk for Autism outside Metro Manila, click here.

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Posted in: angels-walk,chapters,nacw

SM – A Mall for All Autism Angels

Malling is a way of life for Filipino families. The daily stream of about three million Filipinos going in and out of SM malls around the country attests to this.

But for families dealing with Autism, enjoying the malls may not come that easy. It requires preparation by the family for the child.

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how an individual interprets what he sees, hears, touches and tastes; thereby impairing his understanding and use of language, and his adaptation to his environment.

Imagine how the senses of a Child with Autism (CWA) are bombarded in a mall setting, with all the seemingly strange sights, sounds, smell, and people around them. Some of them may cry, some may throw tantrums, and others may exhibit "socially inappropriate behaviors." And some, yes, may get lost – which will be a very difficult situation if the CWA happens to be non-verbal, too.

But imagine also how a family feels when, while dealing with their CWA’s behaviors in the mall, the people around them are all staring, if not sneering. And judging: "spoiled brat" referring to the child; "hindi marunong magpalaki ng anak" – referring to the parents.

Really, it is not only the children with autism who need to be educated on malling. There is also a need to educate the mall-goers, and the public in general, on understanding autism.

SM swept a total of seven awards (for seven branches) as the Most Handicapped Friendly Establishments during the last Apolinario Mabini Awards in 2008. Hands down, the AM Awards Committee honored SM Committee on Disability Affairs for its trailblazing program to touch the lives of persons with disabilities.

They more than deserve the awards because their barrier-free and safe environment for persons with disability (PWD) includes not only their building facilities.

Most importantly, SM people – from the managers down to the front liners, understand and show compassion for PWDs who may not have physical disability requiring special ramps and comfort rooms, but need all the understanding and compassion they could get.

Autism Speaks estimated there are 67 million people struggling with autism worldwide. That is about 1% of the world’s population. Translating that to SM’s three million daily foot walkers inside the mall – there are about 30,000 Filipino mallers with autism, not to mention their families, being touched by SM’s heart.

But the heart of SM goes beyond statistics when it comes to touching the lives of families living with autism. It is hard to put a price tag on any of the following:

-Families comforted by the sincere smile and look of understanding from SM personnel;
-The excitement of families watching their children perform on stage of SM’s entertainment centers;
-The pride of families seeing their children’s artworks displayed in SM’s atriums and admired by the passing mall goers;
-The tears of joy from families coming out of their first movie dates with their children;
-The feeling of having one big family as thousands of families come together during big and small events; and
-The public’s better understanding of autism, as role modeled by SM personnel and management

One in 110 children is now diagnosed with autism. Aside from their families, their doctors, teachers and therapists… there are SM malls nearby, with Autism Angels, to love and care for them.

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Posted in: awards,sm

Flying Southeast Asia

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

After the successful Autism Orientation last February 1, for customer-related department heads, a second invitation was received by ASP. This time: to give an orientation to Regional Managers of Cebu Pacific. Click here to read previous threads.

“The participants are Station Heads from our Regional Stations who usually convene in the Philippines for updates and meetings. We feel that this is a great opportunity to provide them with an overview and awareness in interacting with guest with special handling needs,” came the email invitation of Keight Regala, training supervisor of Cebu Pacific.

Ms. Lissa Araneta, Cebu Pacific Regional Area Manager, immediately thought of integrating a second orientation for the incoming foreign personnel. This was not part of her original plan, but because of the impact made by the first orientation, ASP received a second invite.

ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe embarked on another journey to face managers from Taipei, Shanghai, Singapore, Saigon, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Jakarta, Hongkong, Canton, Osaka, Macau, Incheon and Pusan. With her is DSAPI (Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc.) Mrs. Agnes Lapeña, wife of DSAPI President, Elmer Lapeña.

ASP goes Beyond Borders, reaching out to others for more understanding and compassion for people with autism. This Valentine’s Day, show you care. To request for an Autism Orientation in your commercial establishments, please write us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496.

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Posted in: international,orientation

The Science of Autism: A Synopsis of the International Autism Conference

Cindy D. Canceko-Llego, MD

The Philippine International Convention Center was the venue of a gathering of international and local autism experts, parents, doctors, teachers, therapists and other professionals who all participated in the International Autism Conference from February 3 to 5, 2010. To date, it was the largest autism-focused conference to be held in Asia and had esteemed speakers coming from the M.I.N.D.(Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) Institute of the University of California-Davis, Autism Speaks and other institutions in the forefront of scientific research in autism.

The conference clarified what is the current evidence-based knowledge on autism by presenting results of research studies on the many different facets of this disorder. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a behaviorally-defined condition characterized by impaired social interaction, delayed or disordered language, and a restricted range of interests. Current scientific knowledge of ASD can be summarized in a figure presented by Dr. Laura Klinger in the first plenary lecture of the conference.

The figure shows that there are genetic mutations seen in some individuals

The figure shows that there are genetic mutations seen in some individuals which predispose them to have atypical brain structure and function. These brain-based differences lead to an unusual way of processing information which in turn can manifest as unusual behaviors.

Since these unusual behaviors are what we see in everyday situations as parents or professionals working with ASD individuals, behavioral manifestations were discussed in detail on the first day of the conference. Dr. Klinger reiterated that although individuals with autism vary widely in presenting problems, they commonly lack particular behaviors that all parents should observe in their children during the first few years of life: joint attention, imitation and pretend play. She then presented updates on standardized assessment tools that can be used by doctors, psychologists and other professionals trained in autism to organize their behavioral observations and to help refine the process of diagnosis.

Dr. Margaret Bauman discussed how certain behaviors can arise from concurrent medical problems in the neurologic, gastrointestinal, endocrinologic or genitourinary systems, emphasizing the need for a full medical examination. Bizarre behaviors can be manifestations of pain or discomfort in ASD individuals who may be unable to communicate how they feel.

Early identification of ASD is crucial in beginning the appropriate intervention. Dr. Sally Rogers presented findings from her landmark long-term study of siblings of ASD individuals, some of whom develop ASD themselves. She discussed how atypical behaviors suggestive of ASD can be observed even in infants less than a year old, challenging the notion that the onset of symptoms is around 1 ½ to 2 years. Adolescents and adults, on the other hand, can have more subtle behavioral features. Thus, information about

From the extensive discussion of ASD behaviors on Day 1, the conference then proceeded to a discussion of their possible roots in genetics and brain structure. Dr. Brett Abrahams discussed the discovery and significance of a genetic mutation in some cases of ASD, although he reiterated that such genetic markers are yet to be fully understood. Dr. David Amaral’s lecture on the neurobiology of autism provided updated evidence of atypical brain structure and function, strengthening the idea that ASD is brain-based. He also discussed the increasingly popular notion that immunologic dysfunction, such as the formation of maternal antibodies during pregnancy against a baby’s brain, is associated with changes in brain development.

A lecture on language development in autism by Dr. Helen Tager-Flusberg likewise provided evidence of differences in brain structure among those with the language impairments commonly seen in ASD. The greatest implication of these genetic and neurobiologic studies is that if we pinpoint the cause of ASD, we might be able to develop a cure for this condition. However, it has become increasingly apparent from these studies that the cause can be as varied as the spectrum of manifestations in ASD. This inherent heterogeneity among individuals diagnosed to have this condition contribute to difficulties in making strong scientific conclusions about its nature. Indeed, there is a need for more community-wide studies on autism. Dr. Young-Shin Kim demonstrated the impact of conducting an epidemiologic study in one’s own country.

Day 3 of the conference saw the discussion of the remaining link in the chain of events in ASD-- cognitive processing. Dr. Peter Mundy presented how the lack of joint attention in a young child with ASD leads to a different way of processing the information he gathers from people and things around him. Dr. Nirit Bauminger likewise discussed how the processing of social information can be problematic for ASD individuals.

Having armed the conference participants with extensive knowledge of the what, why and how of ASD, the program then proceeded to discussions on what can be done for individuals with this condition. Interventions currently proven to be the most widely effective were presented at length. Dr. Laura Schreibman discussed the principles and strategies of behavioral management, while Dr. Bauminger gave details of social skills training. The conference then concluded with an interactive discussion with the representatives of Autism Speaks: Dr. Andy Shih, Mr. Michael Rosanoff and Ms. Dana Marnane. The purpose of the interactive session was to launch the Global Autism Public Health Initiative (GAPH) in the Philippines. The GAPH is an international advocacy effort aiming to increase awareness, facilitate research and improve services for autism in each collaborating country using strategies tailored for the local setting.

Participants in the International Autism Conference went home armed with a better understanding of the complex nature of autism. Although there is so much more that needs to be discovered and understood, we can find peace and hope in the knowledge that the continued collaboration of people from different walks of life will surely help us in finding soon the answers that we need.

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Posted in: conference