The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of persons on the autism spectrum disorder. We envision a society where Filipinos on the spectrum become the best of their potentials -- self-reliant, independent, productive, socially-accepted citizens of an Autism-OK Philippines.

26 October 2010

ASP’s Cebu Regional Conference spelled solidarity and success

The ASP 2nd Regional Conference on Autism proved to be a huge success, with more than 300 delegates attending. The conference was sponsored by ASP-Cebu Chapter and was held at SM City Cebu Trade Center Hall from October 23 -24, 2010. ASP-Cebu Chapter is headed by President Sandra Espina.

ASP Cebu Chapter Representatives together with President Sandra Espina (seated-right)
More than 300 attending delegates of ASP Cebu
2nd Regional Autism Conference at SM City Cebu Trade Hall

To show solidarity with the conference, ASP National led by President Grace Adviento flew to Cebu with her entourage: VP- Peng So, Trustees Cris Estampador, Gina Bermudo and Fredes Javier. They were joined by Executive Director Ranil Sorongon. ASP Chair Emeritus, Dang Koe and ASP-Auditor, Evert Malapad, were also there as guest speakers of Day Two of the said conference. Other representatives from the following chapters also came in to give support: Carmona, Tanza, Lagro, Dipolog City, General Santos City, Iloilo, Tacloban City, Cagayan de Oro City and Davao City.
ASP Chapter Leaders and ASP Board of Trustees with Teacher Anthony (seated-2nd from left)
ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe as Keynote Speaker during the 2nd Regional Autism Conference

It was a privilege to have Mayor Michael Rama of Cebu City, who came to give the opening message. Mr. Van Aberia of SM Cebu City, testified on “The Heart of SM,” SM Supermall’s Corporate Social Responsibility for people with disabilities. Mayor Jonas Cortez through his representative, gave an inspirational message.

Day 1 of the conference topics and speakers were the following

Experts from Manila: Mr. Lauro Purcil Jr, Chairman of National Committee on UN-Conventions – KAMPI, talked about the Rights and Privileges of Persons with Disabilities on his topic, “Discounts and More… Claim it! UNCRPD and RA 9442”, Prof. Mercedes Adorio, SpEd Professor from Phil. Women’s University: discussed the education of CWA’s in “Mainstreaming or Inclusion”, Prof. Abelardo Apollo I. David,Jr, MOccThy,OTRP, Executive Director of Independent Living, Learning Center (ILLC), shared valuable information on on-the-job training and hiring PWAs in the workplace in “Wanted: Jobs for PWAs.”

From the Pride of Cebu: Dr. Jacqueline J. Espina, Developmental Pediatrician, CIM, CDU: discussed the “Fact and Fiction:” of Autism, Dr. Barbra Charina V. Cavan, Pediatrician/Geneticist: talked about genetics with her topic “Your Gene or Mine?”, Dr. Glenda Basubas, Cebu PSH; lectured on “Seize Those Seizures” and Ms. Christianne Marie Andigan, MHlthSc, OTRP; made things clearer in “Sensing your Child’s Senses.”

Day 2 Conference, topics and speakers

Focusing on the importance of the family’s role in the lives of persons with autism, Cebu participants were peppered with seasoned speakers, Ms. Erlinda “Dang” Koe, (ASP Chair Emeritus), who inspired parents with her talk on , “Living with Autism in the Family: Live, Love and Laugh”, Mr. Evert Malapad, (ASP National’s Auditor and ASP- Metro-South Chapter President) empowered daddies with his side of the story in “Daddy’s Power” and Ms. Rosalyn Marie G. Sorongon, MA Sped, ASP EDEIP Trainer; enlightened parents by showing the “Sibling’s Side of the Story”.

Equally important are the roles of professionals. Dr. Renato Delos Santos a Neuro-Psychiatrist who flew in from Chicago, USA to discuss “Managing Severe Behavior/ Puberty – Adolescent Issues,” through medications. Dr. Myra Altonaga, Developmental Pediatrician; “Management of Autism,” Ms. Mae Sadicon, PASP; gave a lecture on “Language and Autism: A Spectrum of Possibilities and Choices,” Mr. Anthony Grecia, OTRP, MA Psychology, Program Director of Center for GOALS; demystified Autism through “Friends, Puppets, Shades and Games: Developing Social Inclusion and Mutual Friendship Between Children with ASD & Their Peers, Siblings and Classmates”.

ASP would like to thank ASP members, parents, professionals, volunteers, the hardworking staff, donors and supporters for the success of ASP’s 2nd Regional Autism Conference. Keep checking the blog for more updates and stories.

Take this opportunity to Be an Angel for Autism. Donate to ASP Programs and Services. Deposit in Banco de Oro Anonas-Kamias Branch- Savings Account No. 3980002955. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.

0 comments:

Post a Comment

 
Design by Free WordPress Themes | Bloggerized by Lasantha - Premium Blogger Themes | Sweet Tomatoes Printable Coupons