LRT Orientation and Forum on Accessibility for PWDs

By Cricel B. Elises, ASP Administrative Staff

July 20, 2011, The NCR Regional Committee on Disability Affairs (RCDA) gave an Orientation of PWDs on Light Rail Transit (LRT) Accessibility and Safety Features in Compliance to BP 344 or the Accessibility Law. The activity was held at the LRT 2, Santolan Depot, Pasig City. The activity was in line with the 33rd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (NDPR) Celebration, with the theme “Making the Rights Real for Filipinos with Disabilities” (“Isakatuparan ang Karapatan ng Filipinong May Kapansanan”).

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon with Teacher Ren, Directress of Footstep learning Center Inc., a PWA Student and his Teacher

Eng. Emerson Benitez, LRTA 2 Deputy Administrator for Operations of the Engineering Department, gave the welcome remarks, while Ms. Delia U. Bawan, Director III OIC from DSWD-NCR, gave an inspirational message. Ms. Ana Maria Valdez, DILG-NCR discussed the overview and objectives of the activities. Invited speakers on the morning’s topic were Architect Jaime aka “The Blind Architect” Silva, Chairperson on the Committee on Accessibility of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) discussed the Batas Pambansa 344. Ms. Evelyn Paragas, Head of Public Relations Officer and Mr. John Buenaventura Chief B, Transportation of Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA). They discussed on the LRT history, accessibility, safety and security features. Dir. Susan Cruz, Office of Civil Defense-National Capital Region (OCD-NCR) discussed the OCD-NRC’s project on Disaster Preparedness and how the agency prepares and responds to PWDs in times of crisis/disasters (such as earthquakes, typhoons, and the like). As tokens for the participants, the agency distributed flashlights equipped with mini whistle. Dr. Cruz also demonstrated how to use the whistle as a means of calling people’s attention during emergencies. This coming September, the agency will conduct a “Disaster Drill for PWD’s in LRT/MRT” Seminar for LGUs and other PWD Groups. Demonstration on involving retrieval or rescue of PWDs will also be included.

ASP Administrative Cricel Elises with RCDA Members and LGU’s PWD Participant

An open forum followed after the ride from Santolan to Katipunan Station. Feed backs/responses were collated after the activity. A lot of issues were discussed, such as the Rights of PWDs and the Obligations of LRT Management to their special commuters. The LRT 2 management responded/acknowledged the PWD concerns and would immediately take appropriate actions. ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon gave the closing remarks.

ASP Executive Director during his Closing Remarks

Special thanks to NCR RCDA members and partner agencies of the 33rd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (NDPR) Celebration: DSWD-NCR, NCDA, PIA, DILG-NCR, DepEd, DTI, DOH, DOTC, DPWH, DOLE, DOA BAI-NCR, LRTA, KASAMAKA CBR Foundation, MMDA.

Read more »

Autism Society San Jose del Monte Chapter Building Orientation

Autism Society San Jose del Monte Chapter Building poster

*Click image for larger view

Read more »

Core Issues of Parent Groups of Children with Disabilities

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

ASP representatives joined the 2nd Philippine Coalition on UN CRPD Training last July 14-16, 2011 at the Bayview Park Hotel, Manila. The Philippine Coalition on UNCRPD is tasked to make an alternative country report on the implementation and monitoring of the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

Mr. Alex Cote

On Day 2, the speakers and topics discussed on Core Issues of PWDs
· Core Issues for Sector: Analysis of Causes/Consolidation
· Formulating Recommendations for Core Issues
· Testimonial by Dr. Penny Bundoc, MD on Data Gathering in Health and Medicine, the Physicians for Peace Experience

To discuss the different CORE ISSUES of the Disabled Persons’ Organizations (DPO) present, Cote subdivided the group according to advocacies. The rational of this exercise was to identify the pressing issues of PWDs, to identify the reasonable expectations, create a new awareness on the needs of other PWDs.

The Parent Group was represented by Autism Society Philippines (ASP); Parents of Visually Impaired Children (PAVIC); Philippine Association for Citizens with Developmental & Learning Disabilities (PACDLD) and Olongapo City High School.

Among the group 3 were parents of CWDs (2 for Autism and 1 for Visually Impaired), one special education teacher, with Ranil Sorongon, ASP Executive Director as facilitator of the group.

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon with other PWD Group

Among the CORE ISSUES of CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES, as stated in Article 7; the following were discussed:

1. Adequate Standard of Living and Social Protection (Article 28)

The rationale behind this article as the first priority- children who receive inadequate nutrition often lead to disability (eg. Intellectual disability due to iodine deficiency); living under unhealthy conditions lead to sickness or diseases (when a pregnant mother is sick, it is highly probable that she will give birth to a disabled child); lack of state assisted disability services.

2. Health (Article 25)

Lack of early detection and early intervention programs such as vaccines to address early childhood diseases (such as Measles, Mumps, Rubella); lack of information dissemination campaign of the New Born Screening Programs, especially in the rural areas; discrimination on health insurance; not including PWD in the Conditional Cash Transfer Program of DSWD.

3. Habilitation and Rehabilitation (Article 26)

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office used to grant FREE evaluation and therapy services to CWDs. Recently, the services are lessened and confined to a small office located in the Quezon City Hall complex; unaffordable multi-disciplinary assessment (diagnosis and treatment) of CWDs; lack of training of professionals to address needs of CWDs

4. Education (Article 24)

Mass exodus of trained and licensed professionals who seek greener pastures; unaffordable multi-disciplinary assessment (diagnosis and treatment) of CWDs for placement in schools; lack of reasonable accommodation (citing lack of trained teacher as an excuse)

5. Participation in Cultural Life, Recreation, Leisure and Sport (Article 30)

CWD like other children must be given opportunities to join or watch in talent and cultural shows, enjoy leisure and recreational activities like watching movies, etc. However due to the inaccessibility of these facilities CWD can’t enjoy their right. Another is the attitude of people upon seeing CWD joining such activities.

Realizations and Learning

At the end of the discussions, the Parent Group reported their CORE ISSUES to the Visually Impaired or Blind Group. The “Blind Group”, headed by lead convenor, Lauro Purcil recommended including the Insurance issue in the alternative report. This can also be used as an advocacy tool for the Philippine Health Insurance Commission for amendments to harmonize with UNCRPD.

This cross-disability exercise helped the other groups empathize more about the needs of the other members of the disability sector, in order to gain another perspective on their issues.

The 3-day training is sponsored by the International Disability Alliance, (IDA) The Katipunan ng May Kapansanan sa Pilipinas, Inc. (KAMPI), Australian Agency for International Development (AUSAID) and the Christian Blind Mission (CBM) and Physicians for Peace.

Be an Angel for Autism. Donate generously to ASP Programs and Services. Donate to Autism Society Philippines Metrobank Kamias Branch 047-3-04751874-2. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.

Read more »

Clarifying Reasonable Accommodation and Progressive Realization

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

ASP representatives joined the Philippine Coalition on United Nations Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) Training last July 14-16, 2011 at the Bayview Park Hotel, Manila. The Philippine Coalition on UNCRPD will be writing an alternative country report on the UNCRPD. Alex Cote, Capability Building Officer of International Disability Alliance facilitated the 3-day training.

Participants of the UNCRPD Training

Below documents the Day 1 topics and speakers on Reasonable Accommodation and Progressive Realization

· Experiences with Physical Accessibility on BP 344 or the Accessibility Law by Architect Jaime Silva, UAP
· Experiences in Special Education by Dr. Therese Bustos, UP College of Education
· Critiquing of the Proposed National Human Rights Action plan by Atty. Ray Paolo Santiago, Ateneo Human Rights Center
· Data Gathering on Human Rights Violations by Dr. Renante A. Basas, Commission on Human Rights
· Alternative Budgets as tools for Social Development by Prof. Alvic Padilla, Social Watch Philippines
· Lessons and Challenges in the Preparation of the CESCR Parallel Report by Dr. Hymia Pimentel-Simbulan, PhilRights
· A Plan for a Systematic Review of Existing Legislation in the Context of the CRPD Principles by Atty. Rosirio Olivas-Gallo, Vice Dean, College of Law De La Salle University

During the group activities in between the talks, Persons with Disabilities (PWD) some of their grievances on the violations against PWD on the following (1) Omnibus Election Code on the en banc resolution on assistance to PWD voters, but how to harmonize them with the CRPD, (2) BP 344 have no specific terms/parameters set for transportation (e.g. provision/accommodation for wheel-chair bound passengers in buses) citing cases on PWDs having to pay for high cost of taxi fare instead of taking affordable public transportation systems with limited PWD access, (3) PWDs right to education, but unfortunately, not all public schools can give “quality” education to PWDs.

Cote clarified to the group the meaning of “reasonable accommodation” as affecting one person in one particular situation, addressing his individual needs within the available resources, here and now. This is linked to the individual discrimination, and does not involve a “systemic change”. Cote said the question to ask is “What is best for the individual?”

Mr. Alex Cote with Mr. Lauro Purcil

Returning to the Article 2 of the CRPD, we find the definition of “reasonable accommodation,” necessary and appropriate modification and adjustments not imposing a disproportionate or undue burden, where needed in a particular case, to ensure to persons with disabilities the enjoyment or exercise on an equal basis with others of all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Progressive realization is the member state’s obligation in realizing the PWD rights fully. It gives developing countries, like the Philippines, some flexibility in achieving the objectives of the Convention, it does not absolve States parties of the responsibility to protect those rights. Unlike economic, social and cultural rights, civil and political rights are not subject to progressive realization. In other words, States must protect and promote these rights immediately.

The day ended with another reminder by one of the speakers to build networks to strengthen issues of PWD. As rights bearers, we ought to ENGAGE duty bearers to hear our plight, with VIGILANCE.

The activity is sponsored International Disability Alliance, (IDA) The Katipunan ng May Kapansanan sa Pilipinas, Inc. (KAMPI), Australian Agency for International Development (AUSAID) and the Christian Blind Mission (CBM) and Physicians for Peace.

Be an Angel for Autism. Donate generously to ASP Programs and Services. Donate to Autism Society Philippines Metrobank Kamias Branch 047-3-04751874-2. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.

Read more »

Templates for PWA’s Education

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

“Autism is more challenging compared to other disabilities. Our goal is to eventually remove ‘parent’ or ‘care giver’ from the picture, so that Patrick can be assimilated in the University,” related Peng So, ASP National Vice-President and Chair of the Education Committee, to this author.

Now a third year BS Life Science student at Ateneo de Manila University, Patrick So, aka “The Math Wizard” is supported by the “Buddy or Peer Support” system patterned from the US. His mom works with an Occupational Therapist/Psychologist to address his needs in adjusting/coping with college life.

PWA Partick So

The Peer Support Program is a pilot project of Ateneo’s SPEED Org or Special Education Society. Members of this organization can serve as “buddies” to special needs students, for certain number of hours, on a voluntary basis. This program also aims to equip Psychology or Special Education Students to better understand the needs of PWA students like basic classroom rules, socializing with peers, or keeping appointments. So hopes that the Peer Support Program can also inspire other colleges to follow suit. Click here to watch video on the So family, courtesy of True Stories.

ASP Laguna Chapter’s Autism Resource Center (ARC) operates a small catering service and employs adolescents and young adults with autism. They also provide regular trainings like cooking, ice making, banana chips making, to clerical/messengerial tasks like encoding, packing and delivery. Click here to read more about ARC.

Parents and teachers who volunteered for the “Hands on Training" of ASP Laguna's ARC.From left to right Jane S. Lumbo, Ma. Sharon A. Roque, Riza R. Enriquez, ASP Laguna Chapter President Riza Cansanay, Jerome S. Nicolas and ASP Trustee, Gina Bermudo

For employable persons with autism, Carmel Almendrala, ASP Trustee and Chair of the Advocacy Committee advocates to let PWA take government examination. According to Almendrala, her son Mike passed the examination administered by TESDA for Civil Service Eligibility back in 2005. He is now working as a regular employee at the Philippine Information Agency. Click here to watch video about the Almendralas, courtesy of CBN Asia.

PWA Mike Almendrala

ASP also continues to educate students in Universities and Colleges about autism through Alyana, the first Filipino digital documentary on autism, by film maker Mirana Medina. Click here to watch the trailer. Interested universities can contact ASP at autismphils@gmail.com.

Digital poster of Alyana

ASP looks forward to an inclusive, rights based, barrier-free Educational System for children, adolescence and adults with autism. We continue to work hard for the future of our children. We Share our Hopes with you. It’s time to help Build our Dreams. Donate generously to ASP Programs and Services. Donate to Autism Society Philippines Metrobank Kamias Branch 047-3-04751874-2. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.

Read more »

May Budget Ba para sa Edukasyon ng PWDs?

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

“Priority ba ang mga taong may kapansanan sa Pilipinas? Ano ang budget allocation ng gobryerno para sa EDUKASYON nila? Ito ay isang mahalang indicator,” said Ranil Sorongon, ASP Executive Director during the Forum on “K to 12” Program and the Education of Persons with Disabilities.

The forum was part of the 33rd NDPR Week Celebrations with the theme “Making the Rights Real for Filipinos with Disabilities”, sponsored by the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) held at CHED Auditorium, UP Diliman Campus, Quezon City on July 19, 2011.

Other Parent Support Organizations who joined the Forum were Dr. Rose Aligada, Board of Advisers of AD/HD Society and Gen. Eliseo Dela Paz, External Vice President of Parents Advocates for Visually Impaired Children (PAVIC).

(from left) Gen. Eliseo Dela Paz, ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon
and Dr. Rose Aligada

Sorongon, who is also a member of the Sub Committee on Children with Disabilities of the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), posted the following statements to the panel of speakers from Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and National Council for Disability Affairs (NCDA).

First, viewing Persons with Disabilities is a matter of perspective or paradigm. Do we look at persons with disabilities from a medical or charity perspective or on the human rights level?

Second, on Education, Training and Employment, PWDs should be treated on an EQUAL basis with others. 104 years na ang Special Education sa Pilipinas pero ayon sa DepEd 90% of school aged children with disabilities have no access to education. We should establish schools in the community, so that children with disabilities will have access to education.

Third, Sa 2012 ang Pilipinas, as signatory of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, will be submitting a report sa UN Committee on the Rights of PWD. The National Council on Disability Affairs headed by Dir. Mateo Lee, Jr will be preparing the government report, while the Philippine Coalition on the UNCRPD will also be submitting a parallel report. We trust that the status of education, training and employment will be incorporated in the two reports so that the UN Committee will give appropriate recommendation to improve the situation.

Yesterday, July 26, 2011, President Aquino submits to Congress the 2012 Proposed National Budget of P1.816 trillion. The Department of Education (DepEd) continues to receive the highest budgetary allocation of P238.8 billion: a 15.2 percent increase from its budget of P207.3 billion last year.

This budget will fund the hiring of 13,000 more teachers next year, construction and rehabilitation of 45,231 classrooms, procurement of more than 2.53 million school desks and chairs, and construction of 25,667 water and sanitation facilities in schools nationwide. (Source: Department of Budget and Management).

The question “Priority ba ang mga taong may kapansanan sa Pilipinas? Ano ang budget allocation ng gobryerno para sa EDUKASYON nila? remains to be answered.

=========

ASP continues to keep you posted on the activities of NDPR Week. To read more about education for persons with autism, click here.

Read more »

Implications, Preparations and Basic Education of PWDs

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

As part of the 33rd NDPR Week Celebrations with the theme “Making the Rights Real for Filipinos with Disabilities”, the National Council for Disability Affairs (NCDA) a Forum on “K to 12” Program and the Education of Persons with Disabilities. The forum was held at the CHED Auditorium, UP Diliman Campus, Quezon City on July 19, 2011. The following documents the Seminar and Forum Proper.

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon (2nd from left) and other panel of reactors

“In the Philippines, 1 in 6 people who live in poverty are affected by moderate to severe disabilities,” said Mr. Rizalio R. Sanchez, Chief, Information, Education and Communication Division (IECD) of NCDA. He cited Magna Carta for PWDs or RA 7277’s Rights and Privileges , like access to quality education and assistance to PWD students. He also mentioned the Penalties for Public Ridicule and Vilification of PWD students as stipulated in RA 9442 and accessibility to students as specified in BP 344 or the Accessibility Law.

“Since we have all the ingredients here from the different sectors, and we know that the government cannot address the needs of PWDs in Education, why not drop all our knowledge together in a giant pot and cook something up,” a lady reacted to Sanchez’ report. She continued “Another is using Media to promote Education.”

Sanchez assured the lady that the forum will address some of her concerns and urged her to stay until the end of the lectures. He also sighted that TV5 has been working in partnership with NCDA to promote the rights of PWD. TV 5 was there to cover the event.

Implications, Preparations and Basic Education of PWDs

Mr. Mike Limon, Assistant Chief-IECD of NCDA, served as forum facilitator. Other invited panel of speakers as follows:

“The principles on the K to 12 Basic Education for PWDs ensures Education for All,” said Dr. Yolanda Quijano, Undersecretary Department of Education (DepEd). She sighted inclusive education, flexibility and differentiated learning system and balanced learning experiences, ensures learner-centered pedagogical approaches, holistic development.

Dr. Quijano said that DepEd is currently working on a modified curriculum framework with stakeholders. Being a long time special educator, Dr. Quijano also believes that some children with disabilities need to be mainstreamed first, then gradually integrated (for the CWD to adapt to the system) and eventually, be trained for inclusion (for the system to adapt to the CWD needs).

Dr. Isabel Inlayo, Director, Office of Student Affairs, Commission on Higher Learning (CHED), on the other hand cited, among others, the Guidelines on Student Affairs Services and Programs for PWDs, like ensuring academic accommodation and provision of programs for life skills training, counseling or testing referrals. She also mentioned scholarship programs and student financial assistance programs of the government for PWDs. According to Dr. Inlayo, as of July 2010, CHED has 133 PWD scholars around the country.

Atty. Teodoro C. Pascua, Deputy Director General for Field Operations of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) acknowledged that Education is key to poverty alleviation. Senior High School Students (Grades 11-12) will learn vocational and entrepreneurship skills. Together with the DepEd and CHED, TESDA is expanding the TVET or the State of Tech-Voc Education and Training Program. He cited some PWDs in Iloilo were trained in carpentry to produce chairs for the public school.

A panel of reactors followed after the presentation. Click here to continue reading.

Read more »

ASP Joins 2nd Philippine Coalition on UN CRPD Training

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

ASP representatives joined the 2nd Philippine Coalition on UN CRPD Training last July 14-16, 2011 at the Bayview Park Hotel, Manila. The Philippine Coalition on UNCRPD is tasked to make an alternative country report on the implementation and monitoring of the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

Participants of the UNCRPD Training

The training aims (1) to establish relationships/enhance networking between the Philippine Coalition with other Disabled Peoples’ Organization (DPOs), (2) discuss the core issues affecting PWD, (3) collate recommendations for the Universal Periodic Review (UPR).

Autism Society Philippines was represented by ASP Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon, ASP Board Secretary, Tiffany Tan and ASP Volunteer, Bing David, who also served as the training documentor. The activity was joined by other DPOs around the country.

“It is our hope that after these three days, we will work together in the alternative report and together, make the government implement the UNCRPD,” said Alex Cote, Capability Building Officer of International Disability Alliance.

To date, 149 countries have signed the UNCRPD. On September 2007, the Philippines signed the convention and ratified it on April 2008. As a member state, our country is accountable to submit to the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities periodic reports on the steps they have taken to implement the Convention.

The “alternative report” from the Philippine UNCRPD Coalition will be collated with information coming from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The group will set a regional consultation in the coming months.

Below are the topics of the 3-day conference:

Day 1 Reasonable Accommodation and Progressive Realization

Day 2 Core Issues of the PWD Sector

Day 3 Regional Consultation

The 3-day training is sponsored International Disability Alliance, (IDA) The Katipunan ng May Kapansanan sa Pilipinas, Inc. (KAMPI), Australian Agency for International Development (AUSAID) and the Christian Blind Mission (CBM) and Physicians for Peace.

Be an Angel for Autism. Donate generously to ASP Programs and Services. Donate to Autism Society Philippines Metrobank Kamias Branch 047-3-04751874-2. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.

Read more »

ASP Molino Chapter’s First Autism Seminar

By: Jacqueline C. Garcia, President ASP Molino Chapter

ASP Molino Chapter held the very first seminar on "Understanding Autism and its Management in the School Setting" at Christ Life Learning Center, Bacoor Cavite last June 11, 2011. The seminar was attended by 42 participants composed of 30 teachers, 1 principal, 1 directress, and 10 parents attending.

“Today is Saturday, June 11, 2011. Do you know that “Freedom Walk” is being held now at Quezon City Memorial Circle? And it’s a beautiful coincidence, dahil sa Araw ng Kalayaan, nasa Cavite ako…..”

“Ang Cavite ang lugar kung saan unang idineklara ni Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo taong 1898 ang ating kalayaan…ito rin ay ang Unang Kalayaan na mararamdaman ninyo in relation to you being teachers and parents of Children With Autism (CWA)” said Rosalyn Marie “Teacher My” Sorongon, our guest speaker for the day.

The participants of the seminar

The speaker reminded the participants that it was fitting for the seminar to take place a day before the Independence Day. She encouraged them to remain strong ADVOCATES FOR AUTISM. She also informed them of the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities or the RA 9442.

Another reason why ASP continuously EDUCATE ABOUT AUTISM is because only few are being diagnosed and 5 percent only of the estimated 1 million persons with autism in the Philippines are given intervention. The statistic now is alarming there is rapid increase in the number of CWA” she pointed out.

According to our speaker, teachers are considered the surrogate parents of children with autism (CWA) in school. It is imperative therefore, that teachers should know how to handle and manage CWA in their classroom. The rationale in handling and teaching CWA is awareness and understanding of their disability.

She also stressed that she’s been journeying in autism (she prefers to use the word journeying instead of teaching). “….because when we journey in autism, we’re teaching the whole family of what they can do for their children.”

In addition to Teacher My’s explanation, typically the primary responsibility of special education teachers is to provide education by adapting and developing materials to match the learning styles, strengths, and special needs of each of their students. In special education situations, individual learners' needs often dictate the curricula. Everything being equal, teachers should persevere to educate CWA with care, patience and love!

Finally, to the parents, attempt to climb the highest mountain because in rearing a CWA is really a difficult task and there are many setbacks! At this point of your life you need Divine Intervention and the love, help, prayers and support of your family, friends, professionals and therapist.

“Everything happens for a reason” Teacher Jackie Garcia added. “So, be empowered and accept the task wholeheartedly whom our dear Lord entrusted to us. Face it with strength and courage!”

ASP Molino President Jacqueline Garcia with the speaker My Sorongon

ASP Molino Chapter believes that education is key in helping others on the management of developmental disabilities for parents, caregivers and professionals. In cooperation with Christ Life Learning Center, the chapter is able to advocate for children with autism and educate parents and co-educators in better understanding and management of CWAs in school and home setting.

Contact ASP Molino Chapter President at 0929 762 3178. Be an Angel for Autism. Donate generously to ASP Programs and Services. Donate to Autism Society Philippines Metrobank Kamias Branch 047-3-04751874-2. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.

Read more »

ASP Joins Forum on Education for PWDs

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

As part of the 33rd NDPR Week Celebrations with the theme “Making the Rights Real for Filipinos with Disabilities”, the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) sponsored a Forum on “K to 12” Program and the Education of Persons with Disabilities. The forum was held at the CHED Auditorium, UP Diliman Campus, Quezon City on July 19, 2011.

The forum aims to sight Implications, Preparations and Directions on the Basic, Tertiary and Technical Education for Persons with Disabilities; in the light of the K to 12 Program. The K to 12 model involves Kindergarten, six years of elementary education (Grade 1 to Grade 6), four years of Junior High School (Grades 7 to 10) and two years of Senior High School (Grades 11 to 12). The two years of senior high school intend to provide time for students to consolidate acquired academic skills and competencies.

As part of its mission in prioritizing Early Detection and Early Intervention/Education of Children with Autism, the organization was led by Ms. Peng So (ASP-National Vice President), who also chairs the Education Committee. She was joined by Mr. Ranil Sorongon (ASP Executive Director) who also served as member of Panel of Reactors in the said forum.

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon (middle)
with Gen. Eliseo Dela Paz (left) and Dr. Rose Aligada

Other Trustees who came to support the event were Ms. Evelyn Go (Treasurer), Ms. Carmel Almendrala (Trustee) and Ms. Fredeswina Javier (Trustee), with Ms. Rosalyn Marie Gison Sorongon (Special Educator), and this author.

From ASP: (from left) Trustee Fredeswina Javier, Treasurer Evelyn Go,
Vice President Peng So, Secretary Tiffany Tan, Trustee Carmel Almendrala
and Executive Director Ranil Sorongon

Among the participants were members of the Philippine Coalition on UNCRPD, Mr. Lauro Purcil, lead convenor, Mr. Ronnel del Rio, President of the Philippine Chamber of Blind Masseurs, Ms. Celia Garcia of PAVIC, and several members of the Philippine Federation of the Deaf.

Mr. Rizalio R. Sanchez, Chief, Information, Education and Communication Division (IECD) of NCDA, gave the welcome remarks and talked on the policies and mandates on the Right to Education for PWDs. Mr. Mike Limon, Assistant Chief-IECD of NCDA, served as forum facilitator. The invited panel of speakers were as follows: Dr. Yolanda Quijano, Undersecretary Department of Education (DepEd), Dr. Isabel Inlayo, Director, Office of Student Affairs, Commission on Higher Learning (CHED), and Atty. Teodoro C. Pascua, Deputy Director General for Field Operations of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Other Parent Support Organizations who joined the Forum were Dr. Rose Aligada, Board of Advisers of AD/HD Society and Gen. Eliseo Dela Paz, External Vice President of Parents Advocates for Visually Impaired Children (PAVIC).

Mr. Mateo Lee, Jr., OIC of National Council for Disability Affairs distributed certificates and tokens to the speakers and reactors and gave the closing remarks. Click here to continue reading on the Forum on K to 12 Program and the Education of Persons with Disabilities (Implications, Preparations and Directions) in line with the 33rd NDPR Week.

Read more »

Unheard Voices of Special Commuters

By Ren V. Oira, Directress of Footsteps Learning Center Inc.

ASP National Office, together with other PWD Groups, attended an Orientation on LRT Accessibility and Safety Features in Compliance to BP 344 (Accessibility Law). The orientation took place at the Santolan Depot, and is followed by a Forum.

The Orientation-Forum is part of the Regional Program Disability Affairs’ project for the 33rd NDPR or National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week. Below, the author documents her perspective on Accessibility for Persons with Autism.

-----------------------------------

Thursday is one of my favourite days, not because the next day will be Friday, but because, it is our Community Integration Day. Community Integration Day (CID) is one of the programs of our special education class. And as a teacher, I always looked forward to it; including the assistant teachers.

Who else get excited during this day? Our special learners, and of course, the parents, who are excited to see their children’s reactions and new experiences outside the school environment.

“Can he ride tricycle or walk from school to nearby supermarket without throwing tantrums?” “Can he sit in the Adoration Chapel for a period of time without disturbing other parishioners?” “What if he can’t control himself from getting other people’s French Fries or Soft Drinks at Jollibee?” “What if people might look at him because of his stereotypic behaviours?” These are some of the apprehensions we receive from the parents; so we encouraged them to join us in one of our Community Integration Day.

Our SPED Team believes that Simulation Exercises help our special learners prepare for community integration. We showed them pictures of LRT, how to use the card pass, how to fall in line, and we taught them to walk slowly.

After a short trip to the nearby supermarket, plus a trip to the church and Jollibee; the team decided to take LRT 2 as a means of transportation going to Araneta Center Cubao. Parents and guardians also joined us.

PWAs with Teacher Ren (3rd from left) during the LRT ride

During the LRT ride, one of the security guards assigned at the Cubao Station courtesy lane advised the parents and guardians to let the children with autism ride in the “special coach”. One of the mothers was puzzled because the children they were travelling with had no physical disabilities.

ED Note: The LRT “Special Coach” was designed to meet and ensure safety and comfort of disabled persons in public transport vehicles by providing them with special facilities. A presidential order was issued following complaints from the physically disabled sector that most urban mass transportation systems have not adequately provided for their needs. But, children with autism have different needs.

Another mom related that she was satisfied with most of the security guards, as they usually greet her daughter (also with autism) with a smile, whenever they would ride the LRT. When one of the moms tried to explain that her child with autism needed to be accompanied, the guard then asked, “Bakit? Anong meron siya?”

Mothers of our special learners can readily answer questions like these, when they want their children with autism to be understood; but not when the LRT Train is already there in front of them! She would like to however explain what autism in more detail, if time allowed. Children with autism have no “physical handicapping condition”. Some CWAs need to be accompanied, as they might go down on the wrong station, or might get lost in the process.

The LRT Orientation and Forum on Accessibility for PWDs and Safety Features in Compliance to BP 344 last July 20, 2011 at LRT2 Santolan Depot is really a powerful way to deal with these actual situations. Through this forum, our voices were heard.

Teachers and PWAs of Footsteps Learning Center Inc during the LRT Forum

Teaching our special children is not only enclosed inside the four corners of our classroom –we teach those functional academics and pre-vocational tasks and most especially we integrate them with our community. Our community is a bigger classroom where they can learn more and apply the things they learned inside their classroom. We, the people of this bigger classroom should be educated for us to understand the differences among us.

I believe that by having this kind of campaign, there would be more questions that can be answered positively. Our special learners are very much willing to move in the community that we enjoy but how can they do this without us? We should be their voices to make these things possible – to have a caring environment.

While composing this article, I found myself singing …

“Take me wherever you go I wanna learn the things That you know Now that you made me believe I want you to take me 'Cause I long to be able To see the things That you see Know that Whatever you do I'll follow you”

May the lyrics of this song remind us that we should take part in building a better community for our special learners. It will not be difficult for us to work towards normalization as long as we’re together -- let’s fight for the rights of our children with autism!

Read more »

Hopes and Dreams for the Future

By Cricel B. Elises, ASP Administrative Staff

ASP National President, Grace Adviento, welcomed twelve (12) mothers, four (4) fathers at the ASP Office for the July 23 Family Support Group. One mother came all the way from Isabela Province (part of the Cagayan Valley Region). Three of ASP’s staff Abby Mendoza, Melanie Casalme and Cricel Elises also joined in support.

FSG participants with Ms. Grace Adviento (inset)

Before the start of the session, a minute of silence and prayer was offered for the grieving family of Alexander “Xandi” Bermudo, who passed away last July 20. Xandi is the son of ASP Trustee Gina Bermudo and husband Lito.

After the prayer, Ms. Adviento became a bit emotional while sharing some of her own experiences on raising Adrian; now 10 years old.

“We have realized that this is not only a journey for our child, but also for the whole family as well. We learned that there is hope for our child and there are lots of ways and means to make him a better individual,” said one of the parents whose child was just diagnosed with autism recently.

Other issues like “financial stability” of parents with CWA’s, made a stimulating discussion on the conference table. The sharing became more and more fruitful as different ideas, perspectives, techniques and notable experiences were discussed.

After the meeting, parents realized that they are not alone in this journey and battle of advocating their children’s right. They also felt relieved that after pressing concerns about their CWA were answered. They also reported on learning so many things from other parents’ experiences.

“We as parents’ of children with autism share the same experiences and by this discussion, we are able to learn from each other. And by so doing we gain valuable insights as well as knowledge to help each other in our journey with our children.”

Be an Angel for Autism. Donate generously to ASP Programs and Services. Donate to Autism Society Philippines Metrobank Kamias Branch 047-3-04751874-2. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.

Read more »

Posted in: 4parents,fsg

ASP-CSFP Conducts Seminar Workshop on SIBM

By: Joy Ofrecia, President ASP-City of San Fernando Pampanga

ASP CSFP (ASP – City of San Fernando Pampanga) Chapter held a seminar-workshop on Sensory Integration and Behavior Management last July 9, 2011, Christ in you Hall Dolores City of San Fernando Pampanga with Ms. Lady Suarez, member of the Board of Directors, Occupational Therapy Association of the Philippines (OTAP), as guest speaker.

The event was attended by 65 participants, composed of parents, teachers, therapists and SPED students coming from the different towns of Pampanga and neighboring provinces (Bulacan, Zambales, La Union and Quezon).

The participants of the seminar

Participants have gained vital information and a deeper understanding of the reasons behind the behaviors displayed by their child or student with autism. It has also gained them knowledge about the strategies on how to implement programs in order to address sensorial and behavioral issues brought about by autism.

Teacher Bonnet Santos, a Regular School Principal, said that the module is a great help not just to SPED teachers but to regular teachers as well, as there are some behaviors relating to sensory processing that even typically developing children display. Daddy Jerex Quintino, a father of a 4 year old boy with autism said “we feel so blessed attending the seminar”.

The speaker Ms. Lady Suarez and ASP CSFP President Joyla Ofrecia

The event was covered by ABS-CBN 46 TV Patrol Pampanga through the kindness of Ms. Gracie Rutao (anchor), Robert Tuazon (field reporter) and Ryan (cameraman).

The participants with the speaker and the ASP CSFP Chapter

The activity was supported by Bishop Sun of Christ In You, Trisco Insurance Services President Mr. Wensley Raagas thru Ms Ghel Raagas, Gino Espiritu Foundation Inc., San Miguel Brewery thru Mommy Love Aranas, Chowking San Fernando and Mc Donald's Intersection.

Contact the ASP City of San Fernando Pampanga President Ms. Joyla Ofrecia:
Sun No. 0922-854-3574
Smart No. 0908-876-5625
Globe No. 0927-319-4000
Email/FB: aspcsfpchapter@yahoo.com / https://www.facebook.com/aspcityofsanfernandopampanga

Read more »

Sing no sad song for Xandi

By DANG U. KOE, ASP Chair Emeritus

MANILA, Philippines — Most parents grieve upon hearing their children diagnosed with autism. Lito and Gina Bermudo grieved twice.

Their two sons, Niko and Xandi, were both diagnosed with autism. Actually, the grieving was more than twice because the two boys were diagnosed with multiple disabilities: Niko lost his right eye at age two to unknown cause, while Xandi had Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Marfan Syndrome.

But parents Gina and Lito immediately bounced back from grieving to help their two sons get the most out of living. Interviewed by this paper in May 2010, Gina shared that after Nikko’s eye surgery, she could take anything. “Any condition after that case parang mas madali na lang i-handle. Parang ang inisip ko na lang, at least buhay ‘yung anak ko,” she said.

Parents of children with autism grieve for the loss of the typical child that they expected to have. Nonetheless, all parents love their atypical children. Like Lito and Gina.

Xandi Bermudo

But right now, the couple is grieving again. Xandi, at 13 years old, left his family at “12:20 early this morning, July 20, to be with our Father in heaven where he can be free to do whatever he wants,” texted Gina to their friends and kins.

In seven and a half weeks, Xandi had three open heart surgeries to repair the aerotic valve in his heart. He was a “fighter, a walking miracle” and was already recovering from his two heart surgeries. Then Xandi had a heart attack and aneurysm. Although there was no problem with the third procedure, his heart just could not take it anymore.

According to Gina, a small wound where a tube was inserted in the aorta did not heal as expected. His veins gave way and soon his kidneys.

Gina said before that the cases of her children are “super special” because of their multiple disabilities. Xandi’s death can also be considered as “super special” because it is not included among common causes of death among persons with autism, based on a Danish study conducted by Mouridsen SE, Brønnum-Hansen H, Rich B, Isager T. on “Mortality and causes of death in autism spectrum disorders.”

Causes of death in autism

The Autism Speaks website reported that “in 2008, a Danish team of researchers published a revealing scientific study documenting the mortality rate of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Following over 340 individuals from adolescence to adulthood, this study confirmed earlier results showing that the rate of death is twice as high among individuals with ASD as the general population.

Additionally, this higher than average mortality risk among individuals with autism was found to be even higher among females when compared to males, although it was noted that sex differences need to be further explored.

The authors discovered that epilepsy was present in eight of the 26 individuals with ASD that died during the study period, and in four cases, epilepsy was noted as the underlying cause of death.

Other common causes of death included infectious diseases, diseases of the circulatory system, and unnatural causes such as suffocation and drowning.

Interestingly, it was further observed that common causes of death differed between younger and older subjects in the study. For instance, it was noted that epilepsy-related deaths were more common among relatively young individuals.

Additionally, diseases of the circulatory system were common causes of death among older individuals, while deaths due to unnatural causes were more likely among younger individuals with ASD.

Preventive measures

With new insight into the elevated mortality and common causes of death among patients with ASD, there is now a greater ability to evaluate preventive measures and medical care practices that may help ensure the well-being of these individuals.

By noting that epilepsy and infectious disease may be the most common causes of death among individuals with ASD, professionals can direct their focus on preventing and/or treating these conditions.

Furthermore, parents and caregivers should be aware that their loved ones with ASD are at increased risk of accidental deaths due to drowning and suffocation, particularly younger individuals.’’

Gina and Xandi Bermudo

Greatest impact

While the cause of Xandi’s death can be considered as “super special” in relation to the findings of said Danish study, it is even “super-duper special” because of how it impacts the lives of his parents and those of other families dealing with autism.

Last year, Gina shared with this paper’s readers that “the unconditional love and purity of heart from both the kid and parents… they are my greatest motivation, it has the greatest impact on my life.”

Gina was indeed so motivated to help co-parents that she agreed to serve as board trustee of ASP, doing her rounds of public speaking to educate people on autism. She also composed and produced “Mga Awiting Alay sa Autismo,” a compilation of heartfelt compositions inspired by her two sons. Proceeds of this album go to ASP to help further in spreading autism awareness.

Gina’s greatest dream is for her two boys “to lead a life full of love and happiness in whatever world they are into and to be surrounded by people who equally love them unconditionally.”

Xandi’s death showed that Gina’s dream has long been realized. Seeing the multitude of co-parents, teachers, therapists, special classmates saying goodbye to Xandi in the hospital, Lito said, “I didn’t know my son was very popular…He is our son. He is our special child. He is your son, too. We would like to share Xandi with you.”

Uploaded with Permission

Acknowledgment Manila Bulletin: Sing no sad song for Xandi

Read more »

ASP Joins 33rd NDPR Week Opening Ceremonies

By Catherine Genovia, ASP Program Assistant

The opening of the 33rd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week was held last July 17, 2011 at the Quezon City Circle. A charity fun run was hosted by Philippine Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine (PARM). M.O.V.E Manila Run 2011 proceeds will go to the PARM-PMA Charity Rehab Clinic and help vulnerable Persons with Disabilities (PWD).

After the run, awards were distributed for the following five categories: 2.2Km and 4.4Km for Men & Women in wheelchair, 3Km & 6Km for Men & Women and 2.2Km Buddy Run. The Working Committee of the 33rd NDPR also awarded the winners of the recent Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens, Greece.

The ASP-National President, Grace Adviento and her husband, Glenn Adviento, joined the 3Km Run to support the said cause. The ASP Dream Girls wooed the audience with their powerful performance. PWA Special Olympic Athlete, Michael Almendrala, and mom ASP Trustee Carmel Almendrala, were assigned to serve as First Reader and Offerer, respectively, during the Thanksgiving Service that followed.

The ASP Dream Girls

ASP National President Grace Adviento with husband Glenn

“If a typical person saw a blind man who falls and yet did not do something to help the blind person, who do you think is disabled-the blind man or the man who is not blind?” asked Fr. Father Robert Reyes, the “Running Priest” during the homily.

The Holy Mass officiated by Father Robert Reyes

He reminded the congregation that disability is not confined to what we see-the person with autism, the blind or deaf, or those in wheelchair. He said that the man who did not help the blind man is in fact the one who is disabled. Unfortunately, it’s the worst disability a person can have.

The homily is part of the Thanksgiving Service which was offered to God for all the graces and blessings. He showered upon the PWD sectors. It was held at the Liwasang Aurora, QC Memorial Circle.

Read more »

Posted in: ndprw

The Way PWAs See It

By: Cricel Elises, ASP Administrative Staff

ASP National conducted a Seminar-Workshop on Behavior Management Program, last July 19, 2011, at Asian Social Institute Malate, Manila. Speakers were Ms. Rizalinda “Riza” Cansanay, ASP Laguna Chapter-President and Ms. Rosalyn Marie “Teacher My” Sorongon, special educator. The said seminar was first postponed, due to Typhoon Falcon, last June 25. Evelyn Go, ASP Treasurer and Evert Malapad, ASP National-Auditor and Metro-South Chapter-President, came to support the 47 participants.

Seminar on Behavior Management

“All behaviors, whether appropriate or inappropriate, occur for a reason,” said speaker Riza Cansanay. She said children or persons with autism need to make sense of his environment, process information and understand expectations from him. “They are manifested as a means of communication, learned behavior or sensory stimuli.”

To help us understand the behavior of PWAs, below are sample reactions from famous authors with autism:

“Church was a nightmare because the petticoats and other Sunday clothes itched and scratched. A scratchy petticoat was like sandpaper rubbing my skin raw. The good clothes felt differently than everyday clothes. Many behavior problems in church could have been avoided by a few simple clothing modifications.” – Temple Grandin (Parent Book, 1999)

“I loved repetition. Every time I turned on and off light, I know what would happen. It gave me a wonderful feeling of security because it was exactly the same each time. I got enormous pleasure from throwing things into a big tree. I wanted to see how high they would go and where they would get caught. This was my world, and I was in control.” - Sean Barron (There’s a Boy in Here)

The speaker also emphasized the A-B-C’s in creating behavioral intervention plan for persons with autism: A-antecedent (what happened prior to observed behavior), B- behavior (observed behavior),C- consequence (strategy, what was done when behavior was observed). She stressed on the importance of creating a behavior management plan.

Mam Riza with the participants

A well-designed Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is aimed to help PWAs:

amake sense of his surroundings;

aprocess the information; and

aunderstand what is required of him.

Workshop on Behavior Management

In the afternoon session, participants divided themselves into groups. A case study was given and in 30 minutes, they had to present an Intervention Plan considering the following: behavioral goal, rules and directives, reward/s to use, if the behavior escalates, how they will achieve a WIN-WIN situation?, choices, if any, how to set up an environment; and refer to the guidelines and strategies earlier tackled. They had given 10 minutes for each case presentation.

Ms. My Sorongon with the participants

During the morning session, clean sheets of paper were distributed to participants. They were asked to follow instructions on how to fold the paper into a mini notebook. On the first page, the name of a child with autism or CWA -student/relative/own child/grandchild/relative- that they wanted to help was written; on second page, a short description about the child; and lastly, on page three, the child’s inappropriate behavior. The mini notebook was a take home assignment for the participants to apply what they have learned in the seminar-workshop to address the needs of the child with autism.

ASP Treasurer Evelyn Go with the two speakers
Ms. Rizalinda Cansanay and Ms My Sorongon

ASP next Seminar on July 30 is about PICTURES EXCHANGE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM (PECS) by Ms. Stephanie Lopez - Sy and FORUM ON FAMILY JOURNEY WITH AUTISM by Dr. Nida Juat - Valeriano, Ms. My Sorongon and Ms Melanie Arceo at Asian Social Institute, Malate Manila. For details click here.

Be an Angel for Autism. Donate generously to ASP Programs and Services. Donate to Autism Society Philippines Metrobank Kamias Branch 047-3-04751874-2. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.

Read more »

Paalam Xandi

Alexander "Xandi" Bermudo

Autism Society Philippines extends its deepest sympathy to Lito and Gina Bermudo (ASP Trustee) on the passing of their son, Alexander “Xandi”, 13 years old, who succumbed to cardiac arrest last July 20, 2011. He is interred at Funenaria Paz, Sucat Parañaque. Inurnment on July 23 at Manila Memorial Park, Sucat, Parañaque.

Read more »

UP Special Education Council Screened Mirana Medina’s Alyana

By: Lorish Dane A. Arguelles, Student of Special Education

The University of the Philippines Special Education Council (UP SEC), in celebration of its 11th year anniversary, organized two screenings of Mirana Medina’s Alyana, the first digital Filipino documentary on autism, last July 16, 2011. The screenings, in partnership with ASP Quezon City Chapters, Commonwealth, Diliman, Lagro, Munoz, Novaliches and Proj.4 Cubao, were held at the Benitez Theater, College of Education, UP Diliman, Quezon City.

UP SEC organizers believe that through the Alyana film screening, students will become more aware of autism and its characteristics, and the current local situation of families dealing with autism. Click here to watch trailer.

(L-R) ASP VP, Peng So and Film Maker Mirana Medina

ASP Vice President, Peng So, gave the welcome remarks, while film maker Ms. Mirana Medina, also the grandaunt of Alyana, teen with autism, came to personally introduce the film to all the viewers.

For four consecutive Saturdays of July 2011, a lecture series “ACHIEVE: Awareness and Conquest in Helping, Educating and Valuing the Exceptionals,” will also be held. The goals of the lecture series aim to (1) heighten disability awareness, (2) reinforce the knowledge of people in the special education community, (3) increase involvement of concerned public school teachers, parents or relatives of children with special needs (CSN); especially those living in depressed areas.

The project heads of the lecture series, Paula Mae Catalan, Kathryn May Deveza and Myline Macabuhay, former president of UP SEC, believe that it is essential for the parents and family members of CSN to know that they too can be equipped to help their loved ones, even at home, without the presence of special education professionals.

(L-R) Lorish Arguelles and the audience of the film Alyana

In this regard, the symposium tapped different topics and disabilities in the field of special education. One of the disabilities chosen was autism. Mr. Julius Bernal gave a lecture on “Practical Tips in Managing Behavior of Children with Autism.”

UP SEC has been supporting Autism Society Philippines (ASP) in its programs, such as Angels Walk for Autism and Autism Family Day, among others. UP SEC believes that through the Alyana film and Autism Symposium, the organization can help ASP in spreading autism awareness and equip educators/families respond to the needs of children with autism.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

To request for the Alyana Film Showing in your area, please email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496 for more information. Donate generously to ASP Programs and Services. Account Name: Autism Society Philippines, Metrobank Kamias Branch Account No: SA 047-3-04751874-2

Read more »

ASP Joins 1st Quezon City PWD Summit

As part of the pre-celebration of the 33rd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week, the Office of Quezon City Vice-Mayor Joy Belmonte conducted the 1st Person with Disability (PWD) Summit at the Occupational Health and Safety Center Auditorium, North Avenue, Quezon City.

ASP Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon and Trustee, Carmel Almendrala, who chairs ASP’s Advocacy Committee, representing six (6) ASP Quezon City Chapters from Commonwealth, Diliman, Lagro, Munoz, Novalichez and Project 6-Cubao; participated together with more than 250 stake holders, mostly PWDs, with the participation of the parents of children with disabilities, non-government organizations and the academes from Quezon City.

The Hon. Mayor Herbert Bautista gave an inspiring message to his constituents and revisited some laws related to PWDs during his tenure as Vice Mayor and re-affirmed his commitment to support the programs and services of the city for PWD.

Hon. Vice-Mayor Joy Belmonte gave the welcome remarks. Hon. Alfred Vargas, a staunch advocate of PWDs and Hon. Calalay, the Chairman of the Committee on Social Services; both from the City Council of QC, attended and signified their support to PWD.

Participants with ASP Trustee Carmel Almendrala (in green) during the Summit

Participants were divided into specific disability groups, with parents and the members of non-government organizations in one group and the academe in another group. The two separate groups discussed issues and concerns affecting their sub-sector.

They were also asked to come up with their respective recommendations on how to address such issues. ASP Trustee, Carmel Almendrala was chosen by the group of parents to report the results of their discussion in the plenary.

ASP Trustee Carmel Almendrala (inset) reported the result of their discussion

Other invited guests were Dr. Janairo from the Center for Health Development of Metro Manilawho spoke on the different disabilities; Ms. Flerida Labanon of the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of PWDs (UNCRPD) and Republic 9442 or the Magna Carta for PWDs; Ms. Luz Cabauatan, in behalf of Ms. Teresa Mariano of the Social Services Development Department of Quezon City (QC-SSDD), on the programs and services for PWDs of the city government and Mrs. Garcia, on behalf of Mrs. Vargas from the Department of Education, National Capital Region (Dep-Ed NCR) on the initiatives of their department.

The PWD sector would like to express its gratitude to Mayor Bautista, Vice Mayor Belmonte, the QC City Council and all the sponsors of the 1st PWD Summit.

We hope that the summit will serve as a vehicle in “Making the Rights Real of PWD Living in QC”

Read more »

ASP Cebu's NDPR Seminar on Sensory Integration

By: Sandra Espina, ASP Cebu President

ASP Cebu Chapter kicked off the 33rd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (NDPR) celebrations with a Sensory Integration Seminar conducted by Teacher Lady Suarez, Board of Director of Occupational Therapists Association of the Phil. (OTAP) and OT Head of Neurodevelopmental Center at St. Luke's Medical Center. The activity was held in SM City Cebu last July 16, 2011.

It was participated by 51 participants consist of parents with children with autism from Visayas and Mindanao, as well as professionals and students from Velez College, Cebu Doctors University, University of Cebu, University of Southern Philippines, and teachers/therapists from the different special schools.

Teacher Lady Suarez (inset) with the participants of the seminar

The participants were agog and intently listened to this young and dynamic speaker as she shared her 10 years experiences with the group. They were enriched with the basic sensory processing and principles of Sensory Integration; moreover, environmental modification techniques too. The therapist and teachers were thought the importance of play and self-care tasks. Albeit, the late lunch at 1:15pm, registrants were taken to another level of interactive learning on sensory defensiveness, aqua therapy and overview of Sequential Oral Sensory Feeding Approach and Wilbarger Protocol.

Teacher Lady Suarez (in blue) with AP Cebu Chapter headed by Ms Sandra Espina (1sr row-1st from right)

For more information about ASP Cebu Chapter, you can contact ASP Cebu Chapter President Ms. Sandra Espina 0917-320-7425 / Ms. Cathy (032) 416-5505.

Read more »

Cavite Chapter Leaders Plan Concerted Activities

To sustain the autism revolution in the province of Cavite, ASP chapter leaders met to discuss and plan their upcoming activities for the year as a group. Ms. Jan Peña, the recognized leader and organizer of ASP chapters in Cavite invited ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon to assist in the planning as well as give updates of the coming activities of the 33rd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week celebration.

The group initially planned to conduct an exhibit and a talent show at SM Rosario and a sports fest for the NDPR week. Another meeting will be convened to finalize the upcoming activities as well as the activities for the whole province.

The Cavite Chapter leaders with ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon during their meeting

Director Sorongon took the opportunity to discuss and update the group the participants regarding the Republic Act 9442 especially the provisions on the 20% discounts for Persons with Disabilities (PWD). After the discussion he gave the group a power point presentation of the said law that the leaders may use in educating various stake holders and advocating for its implementation.

The meeting was convened by Ms. Peña was attended by the Ms. Lyn Ebuña, president of Trece Martires, Ms. Alma Torero, president of Tanza, Ms. Alice Buendia of Gen. Trias, Ms. Ma. Victoria Francisco, the newly elected president of Cavite North with her member Ms. Daisy Ejercito . Ms. Rony Bambilla of Molino chapter attended in behalf its president, Ms. Garcia. Ms. Hilda Fajardo, the treasurer of Tanza hosted the meeting at her place that also serves as the office of ASP Cavite. She also prepared noodles and drinks for the participants with native delicacy courtesy of Ms. Lyn Ebuña.

ASP National Office is looking forward for a more dynamic and unified chapters in Cavite.

Read more »

COMELEC encourages PWDs to take part in the PWD Registration Week

PRESS RELEASE

Comelec logo

In line with its commitment to the welfare of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), the Commission on Elections celebrates National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week and declares July 18 to 23, 2011 as PWD National Registration Week.

PWDs are encouraged to go out and register or update their registration records at the Office of the COMELEC Election Officer in the city or municipality where they reside. During the week, PWDs will be given priority and the said offices will also be made accessible to them.

To further increase the access of PWDs in the registration process, COMELEC will also establish special registration centers exclusive to PWDs who are first time registrants in selected SM malls in Metro Manila. These will be held on the following venues/dates from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM:

Special Registration Centers

SM Southmall, Las Piñas – July 21
SM Valenzuela – July 21
SM Marikina – July 22
SM Manila – July 22 to 23
SM San Lazaro – July 23
SM North EDSA – July 23
SM Fairview – July 23

The PWD National Registration Week is a big start to introduce initiatives in increasing PWDs access to electoral process. “The COMELEC thru the Inter-Agency and NGO Network on Empowering Persons With Disabilities which is composed of various government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) continues to seek solutions to undertake measures so that PWDs can enjoy the right of suffrage starting with registration,” Commissioner Rene Sarmiento said.

PWDs who will miss out the chance to register on the PWD Registration Week can still register until October 31, 2012 at the Offices of the Election Officers. COMELEC has started enlisting applicants for registration, transfer, change of name/correction of entries and validation since May 3, 2011.

Click here to watch the video from Real Voting Rights for PWDs NOW!

Republic of the Philippines: Commission on Elections

Read more »

33RD NDPR Week Celebration Updates

As the countdown for the celebration of the 33rd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week draws near, the National Working Committee of this year’s celebration is busy making the final preparation of the events to realize the theme “Making the Rights Real for Filipinos with Disabilities”.

Below is the updated schedule of events as of July 15, 2011.

(click image for larger view)

For details please call the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) at 951-5013

ASP Pre-NDPR Week Activities:

July 16 - Seminar on Sensory Integration, Cebu

July 16 - Alyana Film Showing, UP Diliman, Quezon City

Post-NDPR Activity:

July 30 Sat. - (9AM) Seminar on Picture Exchange Communication System

(1:30PM) Forum on Family Journey with Autism

Read more »

ASP Joins Positive Parenting Program Conference

While most Metro Manila residents enjoyed the birthday-holiday of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal last June 19, more than 250 child rights advocates and government employees trooped to the “Triple P” Conference at the Century Park Sheraton Hotel in Malate, Manila.

Triple P stands for Positive Parenting Program, an approach to empower parents to be at the center of rearing their children in a positive life giving manner. Triple P includes parents dealing with unique situations of their children with disabilities.

Participants of the Triple P Conference

The conference was formally opened with welcome remarks from ASec. Parishya Taradji, Executive Director, Council for the Welfare of Children. Messages were consecutively given by DSWD USec. Alicia Bala and Dr. Soe Nyunt-U, World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region representative, courtesy of Dr. Go of the WHO Philippine Office.

Reports on Child Maltreatment

“Angel is just one out of thousands of children suffering from maltreatment and abuse,” related Sorongon during the conference. He was among the four participants selected by Deputy Executive Director, Ma. Elena Caraballo, to give comments and insights. Sorongon was joined by a doctor, an officer of the police force and a social worker.

“A few months ago, Angel, a chained girl with autism, was rescued by social workers and media men from their house in Tondo, Manila. Having no knowledge on how to take care of her child, Angel’s mom, a widow for three years, chose to chain her to a bed while she went out of the house to earn a living...” To read more about Angel, click “Chained Autistic Girl Gets Help”.

Parent Education Vital

The day also covered different lectures given by the following experts:

Christopher Mikton, Ph. D., WHO Technical Officer on the Prevention of Violence, Department of Violence and Injury Prevention and Disability, presented the Global Strategy in the Prevention of Child Maltreatment.

Dr. Bernadette Madrid of the Child Protection Network Foundation gave a country report. The study she conducted provided valuable information on the Philippine Situation on the Prevention of Child Maltreatment. These included statistics that can be used in developing programs for children.

“Making a Public Health Approach to Parenting Support” was presented by Prof. Matt Sanders of the Parenting and Family Support Center, School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Australia, the lecturer, presented videos on the research conducted in different parts of the world.

The videos documented the success of the program from its initial stage (problematic stage), to the middle or crucial stage (parent education) and positive outcome (result) of the program.

Helping more “Angels”

“I hope that the knowledge we got today will be translated into concrete programs and services so help parents so that children like Angel will enjoy all their rights enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child,” Sorongon concluded.

Thanks to the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), World Health Organization (WHO) and the Child Protection Unit for this wonderful conference.

----------------

Be an Angel for Autism. Donate generously to ASP Programs and Services. Donate to Autism Society Philippines Metrobank Kamias Branch 047-3-04751874-2. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.

Read more »