ASP challenge Allied Medical Professionals to Enrich PWD Communities

Five days after ASP’s Strategic Planning Workshop, Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon takes with him one of ASP’s objectives “to build the capability of communities in developing the potential and talents of Persons with Autism, through a nurturing and supportive environment.”

Ranil has been a social development worker for 25 years and was invited as guest speaker to 150 students of UP College of Allied Medical Professions (UP CAMP) forum entitled “NO BOUNDERIES: Enriching Communities, Empowering Lives” at the University of the Philippines, Manila Little Theater, last March 25, 2010.

UP Camp Students with ASP Excecutive Director Ranilo Sorongon

He was joined by Abner Manlapaz, President of Life Haven Inc. and other representatives working with persons with disabilities. The activity was organized by the students taking the subject “Introduction to Community Based Rehabilitation” under the guidance of Dr. Ferdiliza Garcia, course coordinator.

“Based on my experience, a true community development must be sustainable, people centered, inclusive and rights based," Ranil said, as he imparted principles of community development. The forum aims to increase the awareness of students taking up Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy on Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) and promote it as part of the primary health care. It also aims to provide information on the current status of CBR in the Philippines.

“Kudos to the organizers of the forum - for taking the trail blazing step to equip the future service providers with the right knowledge and attitudes that will prepare them to render quality services to their fellow Filipinos, especially those with disabilities. We hope that this initiative be followed by other colleges and universities offering medical and allied medical courses,” Ranil concluded.

ASP’s programs and services also contributed to the development of the community especially in the areas where there are ASP chapters. A good example is the Live, Work and Play Program of ASP Laguna Chapter.

ASP currently has 42 Chapters and still growing and they need your support. Log on to our community website at www.autismsocietyph.org or write us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496. Are you an Angel for Autism? Sign up now.