ASP links with DSWD Region V Representative

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon took the opportunity to schedule a meeting with Mr. Sammie Buenconsejo, Social Welfare Assistant of DSWD Region V.

“After the Chapter Organization in Legaspi, I wanted to meet with Sammie to maximize my visit going there,” informs Ranil. Click here to read more about the visit. Both had met previously during the KAMPI National Conference last May 31.

“Education should start from the barangay level and the parents should not hide their children with disabilities, but rather encourage them to seek for assistance from the LGUs, especially with the RA 9442 already signed into law,” said Mr. Buenconsejo during a short interview with ASP Board Secretary, Tiffany Tan at the KAMPI conference.

He was referring to the culture and mindset of some kababayans who are still hesitant to bring out their children with disabilities for the fear of being ridiculed or judged as “cursed”. “A good preventive measure would be to educate the children in schools about respecting persons with disabilities,” continued Buenconsejo.

Meeting with ASP Legaspi Chapter Leaders

(L-R) Sammie Buenconsejo, Ranil Sorongon, Abel Reblora and Nelson Ibarra

Mr. Buenconsejo is a PWD himself and travels around the region, and just came from a speaking engagement in Catanduanes, an island province of Region V. He was very accommodating to include in his itinerary the meeting with the newly elected ASP Legazpi City Chapter officers.

Mr. Sorongon introduced Teacher Abe Reblora and Mr. Nelson Ibarra to Mr. Buenconsejo during their meeting at the newly constructed Embarcadero Mall last June 12. Mr. Buenconsejo provided the group with the disability situationer in Region V. He offered the group guidance and DSWD assistance to the new chapter.

Teacher Abe and Nelson on the other hand, shared to him the objectives of the chapter and brought to his attention the lack of information of parents and professionals regarding the programs and services of the government for PWDs. Both parties agreed to support each other to advocate for the rights and welfare of persons with autism.

ASP Legazpi City Chapter will invite Mr. Buenconsejo to be the resource speaker on the coming “Forum on PWD Laws” this coming July in celebration of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week-a very welcome partnership between the government and a parent support organization.

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ASP believes that NGO and LGU partnership ensures success of meeting the needs of people with autism and their families. Be an Angel for Autism. Support ASP Chapters by donating to ASP programs and services. Log on to ASP Community Website. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.