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 November 2010

Mother Knows Best

By: Cathy Genovia, ASP Member and Volunteer


ASP had another successful Sensory Friendly Movie Showing or SfM, last November 20, 2010, which was shown at SM Cinema 1, The Block, SM City North EDSA; one of the largest malls in the country.

Unexpectedly, a 3D movie entitled “Mega Mind” was shown. It was indeed another new experience for children with autism, who are first timers in watching the SfM at an SM Cinema.

Sensory Friendly Movies is one of SM Program on Disability Affairs or SMPDA’s project to help persons with autism and their families, be integrated in the mall environment. The SMPDA is chaired by Eng. Bien Mateo, who also worked with other SM Cinemas in Baguio, Manila and Davao to feature the SfM environment. The initial screenings benefited children with autism from different special schools. And through the partnership between ASP and SM Supermalls, they hope to have more SfM in all branches of SM, nationwide.

There’s this one PWA that really caught my attention. I saw ASP Chair Emeritus, Dang Koe, who was talking and helping Ryan’s uncle and caregiver to enter the cinema. As I discovered that Ryan didn’t want to enter the cinema, because he was scared of the dark.
ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe having a light moment with CWA Ryan (left) and his uncle (left) caregiver in the cinema.

SM personnel immediately responded and took action by switching on the lights by the entrance door of the cinema. Eventually, Dang was able to prompt and convince Ryan to enter the cinema, just like it were a pretend play.

Truly mother knows best, since Dang is also herself a mother to Gio, a teenage boy with autism. She is used to handling special situations exhibited by Ryan. She was excited and happy to find out that Ryan was finally able to sit comfortably and enjoyed the new experience. He stayed put inside the cinema.

1 comments:

Anonymous said...

I missed this again. where can I get info about another sensory screening at sm north again? do they post this at sm?

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