"I'm Aware, I'll Care, I'll Run" this 2011

Cath Genovia, ASP Program Assistant

Autism Society Philippines institutional member, PVI Foundation Inc., will be holding the “RUN4SPEC 2011: I’m Aware, I Care, I’ll Run, a Fun Run Awareness for Children with Special Needs” at 15 Strike Wing MDAAB, Sangley Point, Cavite City on November 20, 2011, Sunday at 5am.

PVI Foundation, Inc. poster

This time, it is partnered with ASP Cavite Chapters ( Bacoor, Carmona, Cavite North, Dasmariñas, Gen. Trias, Molino, Tanza, and Imus ) headed by Ms. Jan Peña, ASP Bacoor Chapter President. The said run is a fund raising program of PVI Foundation Inc for the upcoming summer camp for children with special needs on April 2012.

The PVI Foundation Inc. is a non-stock non-profit organization, composed of volunteer students and professionals committed to the welfare and development of CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. One of the highlight activities of the organization is the Summer Therapeutic Camp or known as “Kamp Pagkakaisa” every year.

This 2012, PVI Volunteers are hoping, wishing and praying to bring the kids to Palawan on April 2012. Muneer Peña, a teen with autism joined PVI with Ate Thea last 2010 in Mexico, Pampanga (click here to read the story) and this year, Muneer was joined by younger brother Millie in Iriga, Bicol. (related story)

PVI also want to thank Phil. Air Force Ladies Club, PMA Batch 81 and 15 Strike Wing for also believing, supporting and partnering with PVI since 2005.

Registration:
Pre-Reg (till Nov 4)
5K - P300
3K Buddy Run - P250

On-Site:
5K - P350
3K Buddy Run - P300
* registration fees is inclusive of singlet and race bib

For Inquiries, please get in touch with the following:
for Manila registrants:
Maui Maclang, PVI Volunteer, Asst. Project head Organizer, 0917-817-8945
for Cavite registrants:
Jan Peña, ASP Bacoor Chapter President, 0915-985-7828

Witness how these kids become winners in their own way… We all care, we all are aware, so, we run for them and with them!

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ASP believes that children with autism will thrive given the right environment and opportunities to develop their skills and talents. We continue to work hard for the future of children with autism and their families. Be an Angel for Autism, the time is now. Donate generously to Autism Society Philippines- Metrobank (Kamias Branch), Account No. 047-3-04751874-2. Write us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496 for more details.

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DepEd gets biggest proposed budget for 2012

The Department of Education has the biggest proposed budget allocation for 2012 among government agencies.

Senator Franklin Drilon, the Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, said in a statement Sunday that the committee has wrapped up deliberations on the individual budgets of agencies and is on-track in approving the proposed P1.816 trillion budget for 2012.

Of the proposed budget, P238.8 billion will go to DepEd, followed by the Department of Public Works and Highways with P125.5 billion and the Department of National Defense with P107.9 billion.

Plenary debates on the 2012 budget is scheduled on November 22, which may lead to the simultaneous approval on second and third reading in the Senate, said Drilon.

Although education accounted for a major bulk of the national budget for next year, several groups have repeatedly staged protests asking the Congress to increase the budget of state universities and colleges (SUC).

During the Senate finance committee hearing on the Commission on Higher Education’s proposed budget, CHED said it is already negotiating with the Department of Budget and Management to increase the P26 billion budget for the 110 SUCs in the country.

Higher budget

Drilon said the proposed outlay for 2012 is 10.4% higher from the 2011’s outlay of P1.645 trillion. Next year’s budget represents 16.5% of gross domestic product, or the value of goods and services produced by an economy in a given period.

“We will diligently work for the passage of the budget so that by January 1, we will have an approved national budget for 2012,” the senator said.

He also assured the passage of the government’s spending plan before lawmakers go on a holiday break on December.

Based on the departmental allocations, the Department of Interior and Local Government will get P49.4 billion; Department of Agriculture, P54 billion; Department of Social Welfare and Development, P49.4 billion; Department of Health, P44.4 billion; Department of Transportation and Communications, P34.6 billion; Department of Agrarian Reform, P18.3 billion; and the Judiciary, P15.7 billion.

Acknowledgements: Yahoo! Southeast Asia and Shielo Mendoza
DepEd gets biggest proposed budget for 2012

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House panel OKs anti-bullying bill

The House committee on basic education and culture unanimously approved on Monday a bill requiring elementary and secondary schools in the country to adopt policies against bullying.

Anti-Bullying poster

The committee passed House Bill (HB) 5248 directing schools to have clear guidelines on how to report, investigate and sanction bullying acts on campus grounds and nearby areas such as bus stops.

"From the reports we are getting, bullying is getting serious… This bill should be implemented because we want to give our students good experience when they are in school," Aurora Rep. Juan Edgardo Angara, one of the bill’s authors, said in an interview on Monday.

Other authors of the bill include Sorsogon Rep. Salvador Escudero III, Caloocan Rep. Mary Mitzi Cajayon, and AKO BICOL party-list Representatives Christopher Co, Rodel Batocabe, and Alfredo Garbin Jr.

The measure defines bullying as "any severe or repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture… directed at another student that has the effect of causing or placing the latter in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm."

Forms of bullying

The proposed legislation specifically identified punching, pushing, shoving, kicking, slapping, tickling, headlocks, school pranks, teasing, fighting and use of weapons as forms of bullying.

The bill also includes cyber-bullying or bullying through the use of technology or electronic devices owned, leased or used by the school.

Under HB 5248, the Department of Education (DepEd) is tasked to compile all data on bullying and provide administrative sanctions to school officials who fail to comply with the requirements of the measure.

Batocabe, for his part, vowed to push for the passage of the measure before the year ends.

"It is a very vital legislation which should be passed, if only to minimize if not totally eradicate bullying in our school system," he said in a separate text message.

Plenary deliberations

The panel now needs to prepare a report on the measure's approval that will be submitted to the House committees on rules for it to be calendared for plenary deliberations.

The measure will then be presented in the plenary, where lawmakers will discuss and vote on the approval of the measure on the floor.

After the chamber approves the measure, it will submit the bill to the Senate for consideration.

The Senate can either pass its own version of the bill or adopt the bill passed by the House. There are two bills against bullying authored by Senators Miriam Defensor-Santiago and Antonio Trillanes IV currently pending at the Senate.

After this, the bicameral conference committee will be convened to reconcile the respective versions of the House and Senate.

Once the bicameral committee approves the bill, it will be returned to the House and Senate for ratification.

It will then be submitted to Malacañang for the signature of the President.

Acknowledgements: GMA News and Andreo Calonzo

House panel OKs anti-bullying bill

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Looking forward to an ASP Chapter in Taguig City

By Irene Cortez, mother of a person with autism

In this age of vast and rich information through the internet, I could say I’ve already read and exhausted almost every article that touches on the autism subject: learning more about its cause and finding references or self-help tools for my son, who was discovered at age four to have PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified), albeit mild form of autism.

While surfing the net one evening, I was brought to Autism Society Philippines Official Facebook Page and browsed through it until dawn. There I learned about the vast experiences of families of children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and empathized with them. I discovered much valuable information a parent should know in rearing a child in this spectrum.

Most importantly all these experiences are locally based. I realized too that there are certain rights and privileges a special child should enjoy that would somehow ease the financial stress that go along with raising a child with autism.

I was so happy to find the head office of Autism Society Philippines in Quezon City. Right there and then I decided to be a member of this organization and signed up for the Family Support Group last Sept 17, 2011. It was an experience that I would never forget. Somehow felt comfortably good about the co-parents that I have met for the first time and gathered new insights from their shared experiences. I too was able to share my own family’s journey.

FSG Participants

My little boy is neither passive or aggressive, nor hyperactive. He’s exceptionally good looking, very sweet and affectionate. However, his world revolves only around himself, his parents, older brother and his toys without any verbal communication and no social interaction. He loves to jump and flaps his arms whenever he’s happy and gets excited. He covers both ears with both hands for no specific reason.

My husband and I immediately sought professional help upon receiving his diagnosis and luckily found MB Therapy Center, a school for children with special needs, just within our vicinity. My son is now 7 and is in pre-school. He attends regular speech therapy and may require some behavior modification therapy, as recommended by his teachers and developmental pediatrician. We recognize and accept the tremendous effort that lies ahead. Hopefully, with our unconditional love and God’s grace, he will reach his full potential.

ASP is a welcome addition to my family and can be very promising partner in this exciting journey. We look forward to having an ASP Chapter in Taguig City and in our own little way, serve together with a common purpose in our community.

*****

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.

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ASP Tacloban Chapter Seminar on Autism

By: Ms Firie Esperas, ASP Tacloban Chapter

ASP Tacloban Chapter, in cooperation with the City Government of Tacloban and Leyte Normal University, staged a seminar entitled “Structuring an Autism Friendly Learning Environment". Spearheaded by ASP Tacloban Chapter, this seminar is in line with the pursuit for strong advocacy and awareness of autism.

The resource person of the seminar was Erlinda "Dang" Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus and a mother of a teen with autism. Ms. Koe, a very gregarious speaker, not only imparted knowledge, but added clarity to the theories and research findings of autism in her lecture. Her personal journey of living with and raising a child with autism served as a living validation and proof of her discourse.

ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe during the seminar on autism

The seminar was attended by 300 participants composed of Special Education Majors from the Leyte Normal University, Nursing Student St. Scholastica's College, teachers from the different SPED schools in Tacloban, as well as private and public school teachers, and parents of children with ASD and other developmental disability.

Proceeds from the registration of the seminar will be used for the Free Assessment and Evaluation of Children with Special Needs in Tacloban City by a team of Occupational Therapist and Speech Pathologist on November 20- 21, 2011.

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You can contact ASP Tacloban Chapter President, Dr. Gie Abuyabor at (0917) 306-3539.

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.

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ASP Ormoc City District 1 holds Seminar, Film Showing and Inducts Officers

Source: Eastern Visayas Mail

Autism Society Philippines Ormoc District 1 Chapter, in cooperation with the Department of Education (Ormoc City Division), conducted a seminar on TEACHH or Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication for Handicapped Children at the multipurpose center of the New Ormoc City Hall last September 18, 2011, with Ms. Erlinda “Dang” Uy Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus, as guest speaker.

The seminar focused on how to take proper care of children with autism both in and out of school. The primary purposes of TEACCH are 1) to improve the level of skills of the child through special interests and 2) to modify the structure of the environment for accommodating the people/children with autism.

Children diagnosed with autism have some common behaviors. Many of them have attention deficit, have poor verbal and comprehension abilities, are disorganized, and have difficulties coping with change, among other traits. These shouldn’t be considered as obstacles to their learning or improvement, as there are ways address and help them overcome these behaviors.

In a structured environment, having consistent, clear areas and boundaries should be defined, so that when the child is in a specific area, he/she will know what to do. Minimizing visual and auditory distractions, implementing non-visual physical structures, Koe said, will help the child focus.

Koe who personally uses the TEACHH method on her son Gio, teen with autism, also discussed its structural concept utilizing a system of devices. Through behavior management, Gio is taught to follow a daily schedule. Koe said, this system can be applied to other children with autism and eventually, help them learn flexibility in individual work system.

Ormoc City’s First Lady Julida M. Codilla also extends her advocacy program through the Special Education Classes of Ormoc City Central School. The program which started its operation three years ago proved to be effective, according to Teacher Arlene P. Sia, during an interview in her classroom.

Kids watching film in the classroom
(photo source Eastern Visayas Mail)

She backed up her claims with the increased enrollment of children with Autism, Global Developmental Delay, Down Syndrome, Celebral Palsy, and other intellectual and multiple disabilities, with ages ranging from 5 to 38 years old. The mayor has a special child enrolled in the central school’s special education class.

Morning sessions are confined to communication arts, social development, motor and recreational activities, music and arts and remediation. Afternoon sessions focus on sports and physical development, numeracy, vocational training and functional literacy and other tutorial learning activities.

Sia says there’s no gap or difference about teaching children with disabilities, as she applies love and care to them similarly to how she would her own two children. Sia has 17 years experience in teaching, including 3 years in special education in OCCS. She hopes to a more accepting society where parents will no longer ashamed to send special children to school or visit public places.

There was also an Alyana Film showing after the seminar. The film is the first Philippine digital documentary on autism by Mirana Medina.

ASP Chair Emeritus, Dang Koe also shared her personal stories about Gio, 17-year-old her teen with autism and the difficulties they have gone through. With her husband passing away last year due to cancer, her most-feared enemy now, is TIME. But looking back, Koe said, she can’t help but be proud of her son, and all the achievements they had gained through the years. “Children like Gio are born so that they can bring out the best of other people,” came her ending salvo.

The induction of ASP Ormoc District 1 Chapter followed: Eng. Generoso Managbanag (President), Celina Sia (Vice President), Analyn Merin (Secretary), Josephine Sesiban (Treasurer), Danilo Hermano (Auditor), Nerisa Pedirecos, (Public Information Officer). Generoso said that they are currently holding weekly seminars for concerned people interested in handling children with autism.

The induction of ASP Ormoc District 1 Chapter facilitated by ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe
(photo source Eastern Visayas Mail)

You can contact the ASP Ormoc Dist. 1 Chapter President Engr. Generoso Managbanag at 0920-960-5791.

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.

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ASP Chair Emeritus Guest Speaker at 3rd Regional Conference on Autism

ASP Cagayan de Oro Chapter welcomes ASP Chair Emeritus, Erlinda “Dang” Koe as guest speaker for the upcoming 3rd Regional Conference on Autism to be held at Maisie Van Vactor Auditorium of Pilgrim Christian College, Cagayan de Oro City. The conference’s theme will be “Making Sense of Autism: A Path to Hopes, Possibilities, and Solutions” from October 28-29, 2011.

ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe

It takes a KOEmmunity to raise a child with autism. It takes wisdom out of experience to learn from living with a child with autism. It takes love to embrace children with autism. It takes laughter to enjoy the ride and come out of it sane!! And it takes faith in Him to find your purpose. Here’s a family’s journey of KOEping with autism. Learn, love and laugh with Mama Dang!

Sign up now for the 3rd Regional Conference on Autism. For more details, click here.

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Help on the way for the IEP team

By Dang Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus

There’s a silver lining behind every cloud. Such seems to be the case with the Suporta sa Eskwela Program of Filipino teachers working in Baltimore, Maryland, USA.

Much as we bemoan the brain drain caused by the exodus of our best teachers and therapists to the US during the past decade, we cannot help but be touched by the efforts of some of these teachers to help those in need in the Philippines.

Our Angel Talker this week is one of the most progressive special educators in the country. Cecil Sicam is the school directress of Bridges Foundation, Inc. She went to Santa Clara County Office of Education, California, USA to teach SpEd for three years and then came back to serve Filipino children with special needs. Teacher Cecil is a co-founder and was national president of Autism Society Philippines. Her 30-year-old son Likas, with autism, is a full-time regular employee at Ice Cube.

Suporta sa eskwela

In February 2007, four administrators from Baltimore City Public School System (BCPSS) came to the Philippines to recruit teachers for their school district. The recruitment team was able to tour the different school facilities in Cebu and saw schools that were model sites, as well as schools in need.

One of those needy schools provides education to students with disabilities. They were touched by the participation and love of all stakeholders (parents, teachers, and students). Seeing the staff instructing children with rigor amid strained conditions, the Baltimore team realized how blessed they were and thus made a commitment to raise funds to support this program that was rich with quality and love.

A year later, the first fund-raiser was held at a local Filipino restaurant. With the help of the Baltimore teachers and others in the community, they were able to raise US$8,000 to purchase a Yellow Mini-Bus for the school in Cebu to allow the school to mobilize the children.

This was how the Suporta sa Eskwela Program was born. By 2010, the small group of four BCPSS administrators had grown a dozen-plus volunteers who agreed to expand their giving. They began developing criteria to nominate and select a school with a rich educational program but is in need to be their beneficiary.

One of the projects that they have chosen to fund this year is the web-based IEP Generation and Monitoring Program of Bridges Foundation, Inc. (BFI), a non-stock, non-profit school for children with special needs.

The need for an IEP

An Individualized Education Program/ Plan (IEP) is a basic requirement for schools catering to children with special needs. The IEP is a written plan that specifies the students’ academic goals and the method to obtain these goals.

An Individualized Education Program/ Plan (IEP)
is a basic requirement for schools catering to children with special needs

The IEP should include the student’s current skills, his/her strengths, weaknesses and learning style, and what goals will be targeted within the school year. It is every exceptional student’s lifeline for academic success. If students with special needs are to achieve the academic curriculum or an alternative curriculum to the best of their ability and as independently as possible, the professionals involved in the delivery of their programming must have a plan in place.

However, unlike in the US, the schools here are not legally bound to formulate an IEP for special needs nor to convene a meeting of all persons involved in the education of the child. Oftentimes, it is up to the parent to take steps to ensure their child is getting the right services and educational accommodations.

The IEP process entails the participation of everyone involved with the child’s education. IEP team members include parents of the student, special education teacher, classroom teacher, therapists, even caregivers.

Before setting goals the team must first determine the present level of performance using various assessment tools. After the goals have been identified, it is then stated how the team will help the student to achieve the goals, this is referred to as the measurable part of the goals. Each goal must have a clearly stated objective how, where and when each task will be implemented. Adaptations, aides or supportive techniques that may be required to encourage success must be defined and listed. Monitoring and measurement of progress should also be clearly explained.

In developed countries, the IEP process is facilitated by using computer software that streamlines the process. At the core of these programs is a goal bank which makes it easier for teachers to select goals and objectives and state it in such a way that includes how progress will be measured and monitored.

High-tech IEP

Web-based IEP softwares are commonly available to SpEd teachers in the US but not in the Philippines.

It is for this reason that Bridges Foundation, Inc. (BFI) has embarked on establishing the first-ever web-based IEP Generation and Monitoring software in the Philippines.

This project aims to make IEP formulation easier for teachers from assessment to goal writing, progress monitoring, and reporting. The program will incorporate a comprehensive multi-level and multi-skill assessment scale, a goal bank, and a built-in system for choosing goals to prioritize. The monitoring and reporting component of the project will track the progress of each student and likewise standardize reports.

Furthermore, software components will be based on local norms and conditions. Our laws are different from those in developed countries so it does not contain the sections that pertain to legal justifications for services. And since there is no public funding involved, especially for services such as transportation, speech, occupational and other therapies, such services are not mandatory.

What remains the same is the process of determining the student’s present skills using standard assessment tools, analysis of learning styles, strengths and weaknesses and tailor fitting goals to each student’s needs.

Parent involvement is ensured through each step as their inputs form part of the data on which assessment is based. A case team conference is convened where all individuals working with the child gather to review the IEP draft and agreeing on its contents.

Though the software does not promise to remove all the difficulties associated with IEP formulation, it hopes to upgrade the benchmark of SPEd practice in the Philippines and to serve as a starting point for further improvement.

With the assistance extended by SSE, this IEP Generation software may one day be a standard facility for all schools serving students with special needs in the Philippines.

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) will hold its 3rd Regional Conference on Autism to be hosted by the ASP-Cagayan de Oro Chapter on Oct. 28-29, at the Maisie Van Vactor Auditorium of Pilgrim Christian College, Cagayan de Oro City. The conference’s theme will be “Making Sense of Autism: A Path to Hopes, Possibilities, and Solutions”. Speakers include Drs. Stella Manalo, Cindy Llego, Annah Bebecca Doroja; allied medical practitioners Lady Suarez, Kathy B. Reyes; SpEd practitioners Prof. Mercedes Adorio, Rizalinda Cansanay, Maria Yolanda Michelle Bautista, Rosalyn Marie Sorongon, Giselle Principe; and autism advocates Atty. Jerefe Bacang, Dang Koe and JR Tan, young adult with autism.

Acknowledgement: Manila Bulletin, Help on the way for the IEP team

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Posted in: angels-talk,iep

Solon Seeks to Penalize Irresponsible Parents or Guardians

A boy accidentally killed his playmate using the gun of his father while a girl who was left unattended by her guardian was killed in a vehicular accident. These are among the incidents that have landed in the front pages of newspapers.

Rep. Carol Jayne
Lopez

Alarmed, Rep. Carol Jayne Lopez (Party-list, YACAP) filed House Bill 5322 imposing a stiffer penalty against irresponsible parents or guardians. "The bill seeks to prosecute and penalize to the full extent of the law, parents who are irresponsible in the performance of their duties to their children. It is easy to become a parent but it is very difficult to act as a parent," Lopez said. Lopez said the bill encourages parents to spend more time with the young and be more attentive to their children to decrease crimes committed by minors. Acts to be considered as crimes are failure of parents or guardians to provide proper education to their minor children, allowing their children to loiter, play or wander unsupervised by an adult in public, in motor vehicles, in traffic, and accident prone areas like streets. Violator faces a jail term of four years and a fine of not more than P60,000 or both at the discretion of the court. Also considered as a criminal act under the bill is the failure of the parents to seek assistance or intervention to "children at risk" as defined under Section 4(d) of Republic Act 9344 with the community based programs under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare system or any juvenile intervention program of the local government unit concerned. The bill provides further that parents who have failed to comply with the appropriate diversion programs and conditions established by the local social worker concerned in cases of “children in conflict with the law” as defined under Section 4(e) of RA 9344 and failing to prevent the minor from being a member of a street gang shall be penalized of imprisonment of not more than 16 years and a fine of not more than P80,000, at the discretion of the court. " Parents or guardians who failed to secure their firearms and became accessible to minors and whose children have engaged or participated in any criminal activity, the penalty corresponding to the felony or crime committed by the minor shall be imposed upon the parents or guardians," Lopez said. "The parent/guardian found liable shall be required to undergo counseling by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)," Lopez said. "Should there be more than one minor involved; one minor is considered one violation."

Source: House of Representatives
Solon Seeks to Penalize Irresponsible Parents or Guardians

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ASP Director Joins Training and Exchange Workshop on UNCRPD

Executive Director Ranil Sorongon of Autism Society Philippines (ASP) was among the second group of Filipino delegates to participate in the Training and Exchange Workshop on Monitoring the United Nations Convention on the Rights on Persons with Disability (UNCRPD) Implementation in Geneva, Switzerland last September 19-24, 2011. Other Filipinos who are also members of the Philippine Coalition on the CRPD who joined the training-workshop were Mr. Ronnel del Rio of the Province of Batangas and Mr. Abner Manlapaz of Life Haven in Valenzuela City. The Filipinos were among the 16 participants coming from Argentina, Brazil, India, Nepal, and Uganda.

ASP Executive Director Ranilo Sorongon

The event was organized by the International Disability Alliance (IDA) with the support of the Open Society Institute and DPOD to support Disabled People’s Organizations (DPOs) involvement in the monitoring of the CRPD and other human rights instruments. It aims to provide participants to have a deeper understanding of some of the more complex issues and provisions of the CRPD, get acquainted with the CRPD Committee work and interaction with States representatives and non government organizations (NGOs), and acquire more skills in the development of the parallel report.

Through IDA, the delegates were given the opportunity to witness the opening of the CRPD Committee session at the Palais des Nations and visit the World Health Organization (WHO) headquarter in Geneva to meet with the team of experts who authored the World Report on Disability.

Participants during Joins Training and Exchange Workshop

Likewise, the group acquired so much knowledge on human rights from the resource speakers of countries like Spain, Peru and Hungary, from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and of course from the personnel of IDA.

The five days activity in Geneva was very enlightening and productive for all the participants. Every minute was maximized to acquire new knowledge, new skills and develop a more positive attitude in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.

The participants would like to thanks IDA, the sponsors and the staff especially Mr. Alex Cote and Ms. Tchaurea Fleury for all the hard work, patience, understanding, and for posing challenges to the delegates to become effective and efficient leaders.

A daily account of the of the activity and some insight will follow this general information of the event.

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Children with Autism Dream on Flight

By: Cathy Genovia, ASP Program Assistant

“If you will notice before we get inside this plane, this aircraft is smiling and we are all smiling because we want everybody to be happy while inside the aircraft”.

The "Smiling" Aircraft

First-timer children with autism were all smiles after enjoying a virtual plane ride on Cebu Pacific’s newly delivered A-320 aircraft from France. Cebu Pacific, one of the country’s leading domestic carrier, launched project “Dream on Flight,” as part of their advocacy program.

ASP Trustee Noemi “Ging” Viado led 30 children with autism from GS Option House Laguna, together with parents and caregivers to attend the October 10, 2011 activity. Many of the children were excited as it was their first time to see a plane. The Cebu Pacific staff welcomed the participants and gave a short orientation before boarding the aircraft.

ASP Trustee, Ging Viado

“For this day, I will be your teacher,” said Cabin Crew Supervisor, Ms. Melody Mercado. Ms. Mercado made the children felt at ease with her comical style. Later, she was joined by flight attendants Gelyn Tensuan, Paula Pacres and Jay Malinis, who also served as her co-teachers. She gave a short lecture about the importance of the presence of the cabin crew inside an aircraft.

"Teacher" Melody with our talented CWA

“Birds use their wings to fly in the sky. Though airplanes have wings, the wings don’t flap like birds do,” said Captain Raffy Locson. He also explained to the children how pilots fly planes. After the lectures, Capt. Locson joined the cabin crew in a short talent portion activity after six volunteer children with autism and care givers rendered a song and dance number.

Capt. Raffy Locson

After the short program inside the plane, Teacher Melody led the participants down the plane to meet a surprise guest. The kids went agog after seeing the Cebu Pacific official mascot, “CEB” and all joined him in a dance number. The kids were also given a CEB stuffed toy and bag as souvenirs.

"Ceb" with our CWAs

ASP Trustee Ging Viado and this author gave a painting made by a child with autism as a token of appreciation. In behalf of ASP we personally thanked Ms. Candice Iyog, Cebu Pacific’s Vice President-Marketing and Distribution for extending this invitation; Ms. Michelle Eve De Guzman, Cebu Air’s Corporate Communications Specialist, and Mr. Michael Shau, Cebu Pacific's Vice President for People and Administration for a fruitful event.

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ASP believes that an autism-friendly society is possible and we continue to work hard towards this goal. To request for an Autism Orientation in your companies, college or institutions, email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496.

For practical tips on how to prepare your child with autism for plane travel, click here.

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ALYANA goes to UP Los Baños, Laguna

By: Cricel Elises, ASP Administrative Assistant

ASP Laguna Chapter headed by Ms. Rizalinda Cansanay, in cooperation with UPLB Ugnayan ng Pahinungod, organized the screening of Mirana Medina’s ALYANA, the first digital Filipino documentary on autism, last Friday October 7, 2011 in D. L. Umali Hall, UP Los Baños, Laguna.

Viewers wait outside for the Ticket Verification counters to open

The chapter believes that through the Alyana Film screening, viewers will become more aware of autism and its characteristics, and the current local situation of families dealing with autism.

Ms. Cansanay gave her heartfelt welcome remarks to 814 participants composed of students from different Colleges and Universities, Institutions, guests and ASP Laguna Chapter staff and volunteers.

ALYANA viewers at the D. L. Umali Hall – a total of 814 (790 paying viewers, 9 guests and 15 ASP Laguna staff and volunteers

Ms. Medina, Alyana film maker, came to the screening and personally introduced the film to all the viewers. Medina is also the grandaunt of Alyana, teen with autism. She also taught the participants how to sign the word autism.

Many participants congratulated Ms. Medina for a job well done in making a film about autism. Some shared that they wiped their tears many times while watching ALYANA. Some said that the story of ALYANA inspired them in so many ways.

After focusing her first documentary film on autism, Medina was inspired to make films featuring different disabilities; she believes that film is a very potent and effective medium that can help change some of the society’s misconceptions about these disabilities.

Mirana poses with ASP Laguna staff and volunteers after lunch served at ARC (Autism Resource Center)

ASP Laguna Chapter would like to thank Hon. Josephine Sumangil Evangelista from the Office of the Vice Mayor - Los Baños and all the sponsors who helped them to make this event happen. Thank you also to the following participants from different colleges and universities: Union College – Sta. Cruz, Laguna State Polytechnic University – Los Baños, Paete Science and Business College, Philippine Women’s University – Sta. Cruz, Laguna College of Business & Arts – Calamba, San Pablo Colleges – San Pablo City, Pamantasan ng Cabuyao, Colegio de Los Baños, Letran College – Calamba City. Institutional: DSWD Sta. Rosa, Los Baños Doctors Hospital and Medical Center, Department of Education Biñan District, Paslit Center – Los Baños, Department of Education Calamba City Division, Kiddie Care Center – Los Baños. Partners schools & centers: Autism Resource Center, The Creator’s Center for Autism – Biñan, Shepherd of Faith SpEd Center – Biñan, Hope Intervention Center – Calamba, Work of Heart SpEd Center – Sta. Rosa, Holy Rosary Alternative School – Sta. Rosa, Child Formation Center – Sta. Rosa, Mayapa Elementary School – Calamba, Streams Intervention and Therapy Center – Sta. Rosa, ABC + Knowledge House – Sta. Rosa, Paete Intervention Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kids Spot Intervention Center – San Pablo City, The Learner’s Academy – San Pablo City, Love & Hope Intervention Center – Liliw, Life Skills Education Center – Biñan.

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For the Catholics, October is the month of the Rosary. The young adults of Autism Resource Center or ARC were kept busy with orders coming from Manila and U.S. They were assisted by their job coaches and 2 mothers. After filling the rosary orders, ARC workers will be busy making their signature angel charms for the upcoming Christmas bazaars. For orders and inquiries, you may email at asplagunachapter98@gmail.com or call telephone number 049-536-0655.

Ms. Cathy (job coach) with RJ (with autism), Kaymar and Christian (with mental retardation), young
adults working at the Autism Resource Center (ARC)

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.

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ASP to hold 3rd Regional Conference on Autism

True to its commitment of empowering parents of persons with autism, professionals and students, the Autism Society Philippines will be holding its 3rd Regional Conference on Autism to be hosted by the ASP-Cagayan de Oro Chapter, headed by its President Angie R. Abellanosa on 28-29 October 2011 at the Maisie Van Vactor Auditorium of Pilgrim Christian College, Cagayan de Oro City. The conference’s theme will be “Making Sense of Autism: A Path to Hopes, Possibilities, and Solutions”.

A power house of speakers from Manila coming from the different disciplines including parents of persons with autism and a person with autism will be flying to Cagayan de Oro City to share their knowledge and experiences in tandem with the talents from Cagayan de Oro City.

Topics and Speakers

Day 1

Understanding Autism by Cindy Canceko-Llego, MD, DPPS, FPSDBP

Dr. Cindy Canceko-Llego is a developmental and behavioral pediatrician. She graduated from the University of the Philippines-Manila as a Doctor of Medicine (INTARMED program) and underwent residency training in Pediatrics at the Philippine General Hospital, where she was the chief resident in 2005. She then proceeded with her subspecialty training in Developmental Pediatrics in the same institution.

Her other major interest is in the field of clinical research and evidence-based medicine, having undergone postgraduate training in Clinical Epidemiology at the University of the Philippines. She is currently completing her thesis requirements for a Master of Science degree. Her thesis is about community-based screening of psychosocial problems in children.

Dr. Cindy is currently holding clinic at Polymedic Medical Plaza in Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City. She is also the Training Officer of the Department of Pediatrics at the Northern Mindanao Medical Center and an Assistant Professor at Xavier University-Jose P. Rizal School of Medicine.

Updates on Autism by Annah Rebecca P. Valmores- Doroja, MD,DPPS,FPSDBP

Dr. Doroja serves as an Associate Professor and Clinical Preceptor at the Department of Pediatrics, Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan School of Medicine, Guest Lecturer at the College of Education, Department of Special Education, Xavier University and Northern Mindanao Polytechnic University, a Full-time Consultant at the Capitol University Medical City and a Visiting Consultant at the Polymedic General Hospital, Northern Mindanao Medical Center, Maria Reyna Hospital, Madonna and Child Hospital, Cagayan de Oro Medical Center, Doctor Sabal Hospital.

Our Rights…Lets’ Claim It! by Atty. Jerefe T. Bacang

Atty. Bacang has led a fifteen-year career for the promotion and protection of human rights and a focal person for women and children’s rights. As an Attorney V at The Commission on Human Rights, Regional Office No. 10 Cagayan de Oro City, she serves as Chief of the Legal Section working closely with the Investigation Section in the case management of human rights violations in the region, and conducts legal aid and counselling. Initiate human rights advocacy. She also served as the Chief of the Education, Training and Information Section, where she formulated and implemented programs for human rights awareness and human rights education.

Sensing your Child’s Senses (Sensory Integration) by Lady Suarez, OTRP

Ms. Lady M. Suarez is a graduate of UP-College of Allied Medical Professions (CAMP) Manila, 2002. A Consultant of Therapy Works Inc., Skill Builders Therapy Center & St. Luke’s Medical Center - Neurodevelopmental Center (SLMC-NDC). She is also the OT Head of St. Luke’s Neurodevelopmental Center. A Board of Director, Occupational Therapy Association of the Philippines (OTAP) and a Special Lecturer of UP-CAMP.

SNN – Sex News Ngayon! (Puberty and Issues in Adolescence) by Stella G. Manalo, MD, FPPS, FPSDBP

Dr. Manalo is presently an Associate Clinical Professor of the Department of Pediatrics, UP College of Medicine- Philippine General Hospital from which she recently received the UP Centennial Clinical Faculty Grant for 12 years of exemplary service to the University. She holds 2 hats in the department being both the training officer for the section of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics and the associate director of the Child Protection Unit (CPU) of the Dept of Pediatrics UP-PGH. She has her private clinical practice at the Medical City where she is an active regular staff member and Director of the Center for Developmental Pediatrics.

Dr. Manalo is also affiliated with numerous professional societies: a Fellow of the Philippine Pediatric Society; Founding Fellow of the Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. She is adviser to other professional societies and support groups which she helped set up like the ADHD Society of the Philippines and the Philippine Association of Behavior Analysis.

Home Management Program by Rizalinda C. Cansanay, MA Ed. SPED

Ms. Riza Cansanay is the President of ASP Laguna Chapter and past Director of the Autism Resource Center of Los Baños. She was a former Principal and SPED Teacher at the Cahbriba Autism Center in Los Baños. Teacher Riza, as she is more fondly called, earned her Master’s Degree in Education with a major in Special Education from the University of the Philippines-Diliman. Her almost 20 years experience in special education and 26 years as a parent to Michael, an adult with autism, have equipped her with the expertise in the subject matter.

Day 2

Inclusion and Differentiated Instruction by Prof. Mercedes Adorio, Ph.D.

This seminar will discuss how schools can effectively adjust their curricular framework to accept students with disabilities, including children with autism. The seminar will also present ways of accessing the regular education curriculum and how students, with and without disabilities are evaluated. Participants will learn different approaches on how to make ALL students function in an inclusive classroom environment.

In Differentiated instruction (DI) lies at the heart of inclusive education. The two terms are not synonymous. A school cannot say that it is inclusive without applying the tenets of differentiated instruction. A school may likewise say it is using DI but its goal may not be truly inclusive in the manner we understand inclusion to be. But the philosophy of inclusion becomes real only when instruction is differentiated to address the diverse learning needs of students.

The topic includes a discussion on the nature and basic principles of DI. There will be a demonstration on how DI can be done within the classroom, with illustration on how content, process, and outcome of instruction are managed through the flexible use of time, materials, groupings, and instruction. DI is for all students, not just for students with special learning needs.

Dr. Mercedes Adorio obtained her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology & Educational Sociology in UP and has served as College Secretary (1992-1995) and as Faculty-in-Charge of the Special Education area of the Division of Curriculum and Instruction. She is often invited as resource person in national and regional school divisions and has presented papers in international conferences. She is the author of Special Education in the Philippines: Trends and Issues. Dr. Adorio was a former professor of Special Education of UP, Diliman. She is currently teaching SPED at the Philippine Women’s University.

To Talk or Not to Talk? (Speech Language and Communication) by Kathy B. Reyes, PASP

Ms. Kathy B. Reyes CSP-PASP is the co-owner of Independently, a family centered clinic in San Pascual, Batangas. She is also a consultant in various provinces in the country. She currently engages in research and continuing education of speech therapists in management of children with various speech and language related disorder. For the past 10 years, Kate has been a clinician, researcher, teacher, and consultant. Her main goal in practice is to help fight for the rights of children with disability and mainstream them in the society.

Wanted: Jobs for PWAs by Ms. Maria Yolanda Michelle A. Bautista, MA Ed. SPED

Ms. Maria Yolanda Michelle A. Bautista or Teacher Landa is a BA Social Science (Major in Behavioral Studies) graduate of UP Manila. She finished her master’s degree in Special Education at UP Diliman, Quezon City. Shortly after, she finished a Social Entrepreneurship Training Program for Professionals at Ateneo de Manila University’s School of Government. Ms. Bautista is the Curriculum Director of The Learning Center, Inc. (TLC). She administers the schools internal and external affairs and develops the school's special education curriculum. She likewise develops TLC’s vocational skills training curriculum, which focuses on work transition training programs in sheltered social enterprise and community-based settings. Her thesis, “Factors Related to Work Transition for Persons with Special Needs” has been published in the Research Journal in Special Education & Independent Living. Recently, she completed the Support System for Persons with Disabilities Course under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Training Program for Young Leaders 2011 in Fukui, Japan. She is a staunch advocate of individuals with special needs.

SOCI Ba? (Developing Social Skills) by Giselle B. Principe, MA Psychology

The seminar is divided into two parts. The first part aims to help parents, teachers and therapists understand the development of friendship among individuals with High Functioning Autism. Discussion about the problem of bullying will also be tackled. Part two aims to provide the participants a model by which they can create social skills group in the school and their private practice.

Ms. Gieselle Bayhon-Principe is a founder of Outdoor Playgroup Phil. Inc. that specializes in play therapy and social skills training for children with Asperger’s Syndrome. She is also the School Administrator of Mind Matters Christian Academy. A graduate of Bachelor in Elementary Education Majoring in Special Education from University of the Philippines. She also obtained her Masters in Clinical Psychology and is currently taking her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in the same university.

Siblings’ Side of the Story by Rosalyn Marie G. Sorongon MA Ed. SPED

Parents often receive an outpouring of different forms of support upon the diagnosis of their child in order to help them accept, understand and deal with autism in their lives. Therefore, they also become, aside from their child with autism, the focal point of programs and services to address the varying needs brought about by autism. Unfortunately, there are other family members whose seem to be often left out. These are the other children or the siblings of the persons with autism (PWA). Much has been studied, read, seen and heard about the plight of the parent of PWA but little yet has been learned, discussed and dealt with the siblings. Unraveling the situation of the siblings of PWA conveys a message that they are seen as equally important as that of their parent in the world of autism. Knowing their issues and/or concern, needs and desires, and their aspirations in life in relation to their brother or sister with autism encourages widening of perspective in viewing and understanding the unique circumstances they are in. This knowledge can pave the way for creating a gamut of support services in addressing the needs of the siblings. As a result, this will invite, encourage and inspire them to heed the call of the Autism challenge within and hopefully, beyond their families.

Ms. Rosalyn Marie Gison Sorongon earned her Master’s Degree in Special Education from the University of the Philippines, Diliman. Equipped with more than a decade of teaching persons with autism (PWAs) and helping their families cope with this condition, she conducts orientations and trainings to parents and professionals on autism. A former School Director of the Center for Autism and Related Disorders in Las Piñas City, Teacher My finds fulfillment in her new role as a regular facilitator of workshops for siblings of PWAs as a result of her post graduate research on this sector.

My Journey with Autism by JR Tan, Young Adult with Autism

JR Tan is 20 years old and currently a senior taking up BS Accountancy with minor in Biblical Studies at Messiah College Foundation. He dreams of becoming a Certified Public Accountant in the future. JR is passionate about autism rights. He participated with hundreds of children advocates in the UN Convention on Rights of the Child (2008), joined PWD leaders in the UNCRPD Conference (2010), and rallied for the implementation of the 20% discounts on medicine (2010). JR is one of the first self-advocate members of Autism Society Philippines. He regularly contributes articles to ASP’s award-winning blog and Angels Talk Column in Manila Bulletin. He also volunteers in ASP activities and co-facilitates in the Family Support Group. JR aspires for readily available, accessible and affordable special education; therapy and rehabilitation services for all people with autism in the country.

Living with Autism: Learn, Love and Laugh! by Erlinda “Dang” Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus

LIVING WITH AUTISM IN THE FAMILY – LEARN, LOVE AND LAUGH

It takes a KOEmmunity to raise a child with autism.

It takes wisdom out of experience to learn from living with a child with autism.

It takes love to embrace children with autism.

It takes laughter to enjoy the ride and come out of it sane!!

And it takes faith in Him to find your purpose.

Here’s a family’s journey of KOEping with autism. Learn, love and laugh with Mama Dang!

Fondly known as Mama Dang, she has been an indefatigable autism advocate. She served as ASP National President for an unprecedented 3 consecutive terms and continues the advocacy as the first appointed Chair Emeritus of the society. Her more than a decade of service to ASP is decorated with numerous accomplishments, including being accorded in 2009 The Outstanding Thomasian Alumni (TOTAL) Award for Humanitarian Service for her competence, commitment and compassion in leading Autism Society Philippines to share hopes & build dreams with almost a million Filipino families dealing with autism. She juggles her time between her family, corporate engagements, and ASP – including provincial trips as a much sought-after seminar and conference speaker on autism; and writing Angels Talk in Manila Bulletin. In spite of which, she can still keep it together with humor, fair judgment and that rare mix of leadership qualities needed to hold a non-profit organization. Her eldest son, Gio, is now 17 years old, and she extends her advocacy throughout her entire family as they actively participate in ASP activities.

Registration Information

Registration fee is inclusive of certificate, handouts, lunch AM & PM snacks for 2 days

Conference Fee

On Site Register

ASP Member P1,600

Non Member P2,000

Student P1,200

Participants may pay to Autism Society Philippines Cagayan de Oro Chapter, Export and Industry Bank acct # 001-402-00618-4. Please fax the deposit slip with the name/s of participant/s to ASP-CdO office Telefax # 088-857-1371 and bring it on the day of the conference. No refund will be given to participants who will not show up on the date of the conference. For more details, please call or text Angie Abellanosa at 0906-126-0630 or 0932-157-5966.

We hope this conference will be an intellectually exciting and enriching experience, as well as an inspiring social event.

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The Birth of ASP SJDM Bulacan Chapter

By Christina Borneo, ASP SJDM Bulacan Chapter Adviser

Nothing could dampen a strong and fighting spirit of parents, teachers, volunteers, and specially the children with special needs of San Jose del Monte Bulacan and nearby towns. A motorcade of cars and vans were adorned with tarpaulin and balloons to proclaim the birth of ASP San Jose Del Monte (SJDM) Bulacan Chapter at SM City Fairview on Saturday of October 8, 2011.

ASP National President, Grace Adviento received all the participants and guests with her inspiring opening remarks. She also presided the much awaited Induction of ASP San Jose Del Monte Bulacan Chapter Officers as follows: Ms. Susan Reyes (President), Ms. Rizza Esplana (Vice President), Ms. Din Foronda (Secretary), Ms. Lyn Estrada (Treasurer), Ms. Janeth Ramos (Auditor); Committee Heads: Ms. Flordeliza Salvador (Advocacy), Ms. Mary Gold Ong (Family), Ms. Jocelyn Cruz (Sports), Ms. Elma Molino (Finance), Ms. Lorna Galido and Ms. Rosalie Imperial (Education).

Induction of ASP San Jose Del Monte Bulacan Chapter Officers
headed by ASP National President Mary Grace Adviento

In show of full-support for the event were ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon, ASP Chapter leaders from Lagro, Commonwealth, Munoz, Novaliches and Diliman. The event was also graced by the SJDM Bulacan City Vice-Mayor Honorable Eduardo Roquero thru his representative, Quezon City Councilor, JR Bartolome and DOTC Representative, Arch. Rizal Morales.

Due to the weather condition, the program officially started at 10am with a prayer by Karlo Estrada followed by the National Anthem led by Skye Reyes with Joshua Gamboa as the flag bearer. ASP-SJDM Bulacan Chapter Vice-President, Ms. Rizza Esplana and Sir Apolinario C. Fajardo Jr. Head, Guidance and Counseling Center from Siena College of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan served as emcees.

DOTC Representative, Arch. Rizal Morales gave an inspiring message to the participants. Arch. Morales is an avid supporter of ASP and an advocate for PWD’s. He is a recipient of the 2011 Apolinario Mabini Award for Government Rehabilitation Volunteer.

SM City Fairview’s Mall Manager, Eng. Dennis Martel and Building Administration Officer, Sir Ruel Magat welcomed the participants. The Mall also recently bagged the 2011 Apolinario Mabini Silver Award for Disabled-Friendly Establishment.

SM City Fairview also renews its commitment to reach out to the families of children with special needs in the community by extending their support to help and contribute to the awareness campaign for children and adults with special needs.

A video presentation on the SM Cares Program followed and SM Story Land’s Lion Mascot enticed all the children to go up stage and join him in dancing! It was such a joy seeing the happy angels enjoying the day.

The Drum and Lyre band signaled the start of Angel’s Walk for Autism. A parade of angels went through the major corridors of the second level of SM City Fairview. The children and parents waved their green flags and flashed their best smiles while waving to curious shoppers and stall attendants.

The Angels Walk for Autism supported by different ASP Chapters,
SM Program on Disability Affairs, friends and families

After the walk, the participants headed back to the venue for snacks and refreshments. To highlight the talents of children with autism, ASP-SJDM Angels charmed the audience with a special dance number from “Ako ay may Lobo”. From ASP-Lagro Chapter, Tanya Dagunton wowed the audience with her song “The Climb” and John Paul Lumba hit the high notes on his rendition of “Wind Beneath My Wings”. Truly these angels have their own special way of touching the lives of people around them.

A van load of student volunteers from Siena College also arrived to assist the activities. In show of their support, representative Sir Apolinario C. Fajardo Jr. Head, Guidance and Counseling Center from Siena College of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan who also co-emceed the event, serenaded the participants with a very heartwarming song “Sandra” popularized by Barry Manilow.

ASP Commonwealth Chapter added a twist after their song and dance rendition by calling all parents to join the kids on stage to dance with their little ones! Children were enjoying their snacks while the show case of talents kept them amused. What a day when all of the participants finished their special numbers!

After all the festivities, a video presentation of ASP Programs and Services was shown to the participants. ASP Executive Director made some announcements and yours truly gave the closing remarks. Ms. Susan Reyes, ASP-SJDM president delivered her thank you message to the guests the management of SM City Fairview, the Chapter Leaders and their families and of course, the sponsors and volunteers who supported the event.

ASP SJDM Bulacan Chapter Officers with SM Program on Disability Affairs, SM Fairview Mall Manager Enr. Dennis Martel (6th from left-2nd row), ASP National President Mary Grace Adviento (4th from right-1st row) and Representative of Vice Mayor Hon. Eduardo Roquero (3rd from right-1st row)

You can contact San Jose Del Monte Bulacan Chapter President Susana Reyes at 0917-785-0469 or email at susanreyes889@yahoo.com.

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.

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Posted in: bulacan,chapters

Footsteps Toward Autism Advocacy

By: Renelie Oira, Footstep Learning Center, School Directress

Parenting a child with special needs maybe the hardest challenge parents will have to face in life. But if parents have information, as well as inspiration, parenting children with special needs will definitely be a learning experience.

In support of this endeavor, Footsteps Learning Center Inc. (FLCI) created Special Education Parent’s Advocacy Link (SPED PAL) in 2009. It is one of the programs of FLCI towards its goal of educating and empowering families, relatives, and caregivers of children with special needs. SPED PAL also targets the community to be involved in caring for these children.

Last Saturday, October, Typhoon Quiel did not stop the FLCI parents in attending the 3rd SPED Parent’s Advocacy Link. We were very blessed to have Mrs. Carmel Almendrala, mom of Michael, Trustee and Head of Advocacy Committee of Autism Society Philippines and 2010 “Ulirang Ina” National Awardee, as our guest speaker.

ASP Trustee Carmel Almendrala share her experience with Mike

She imparted her valuable insights on parenting children with autism. The parents, caregivers and teachers were all enlightened with Tita Carmel’s sharing of her experiences on how she conquered the everyday struggles of being a mother to Mike, Special Olympian and loyal employee at the Philippine Information Agency.

Parents were given opportunity to ask questions and offer their own heart-warming stories. We were also honored by the attendance of two of our barangay officials, as we reiterate the significant role of the community in caring for individuals with special needs. Tita Carmel’s faith and courage gave hope to parents and teachers alike in facing their own joys, trials and responsibilities.

ASP Trustee Carmel Almendrala with the
Teachers and Staff of Footstep Learning Center

Footsteps Learning Center, Inc.’s 3rd SPED P.A.L. will indeed be a forum to remember mainly because of the passion of parents like Tita Carmel in advocating for the rights of children with special needs.

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

To request for an Autism Orientation and Awareness Lecture in your area, write us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496.

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Speech Therapy Made Easy

By: Cath Genovia, ASP Program Assistant

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) recently held its regular monthly seminar last Saturday, October 1, 2011 at Asian Social Institute in Malate, Manila. ASP Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon introduced our resource speaker, Ms. Kate Reyes.

The seminar-workshop was designed for parents of children with autism. ASP and Teacher Kate Reyes, the resource speaker aimed to equip the participants with knowledge and understanding of speech, language and communication. It also aimed to help the participants identify communication models, and show how the logistics at home affect communication. And more importantly to identify hindrances that would maximize the child’s communication skills.

Teacher Kate Reyes, CSP-PASP

“Ms Kathy is the best person to discuss this topic as she is very knowledgeable about it”.

“I commend the speaker for a very good and effective way of imparting her knowledge about the topic.”

These are some of the comments of the participants with regards to the speaker. The 34 participants mostly parents were also given some activities and exercises that made the seminar-workshop more interacting.

The Participants

Prior to this, Sorongon said that ASP and Teacher Kate is preparing a module to make this topic a continuous seminar especially for parents of a CWA.

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

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Ergonomically Correct Backpacks for Students

By: Cath Genovia, ASP Program Assistant

ASP continues to give current and interesting topics like “Applying Ergonomics to Children with Special Needs”. The topic was discussed by Ms. Thea Sheila Ocheda-Alonto (OTRP,OTR) last August 27, 2011 at the Asian Social Institute, Malate, Manila.

The word Ergonomics comes from two Greek words "ergon", meaning work, and "nomos" meaning "laws". The word is used to describe the science of "designing the job to fit the worker, not forcing the worker to fit the job." Ergonomics covers all aspects of a job, from the physical stresses it places on joints, muscles, nerves, tendons, bones and the like, to environmental factors which can affect hearing, vision, and general comfort and health.

Ergonomics for Children with Autism is further discussed in the September 18, 2011 issue of Angels Talk.

One of the ergonomic issues discussed is the use of School Backpacks. Some guidelines given were the proper use of backpacks, its load, size and features. To demonstrate the proper use of backpack, ASP Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon, was asked to give the proper demonstration of using the backpack and how to put things in the backpack to balance the load.

Ms. Thea Alonto shows how to use backpack correctly

Participants were surprised to be informed of a local initiative that was passed by Senator Lito Lapid last September 2010. Senate Bill 2179 aims to address issues related to school backpack use.

According to the bill, pediatricians and chiropractors have observed that many grade school and high school students are suffering from back pain due to carrying heavy backpacks. Overloaded backpacks can be a possible source of “chronic, low-level trauma” that can result to chronic shoulder, neck and back pain in children.

The bill proposed limiting the amount of weight of bags carried by children in school and implementing proactive measures to protect school children’s health from the adverse effects of a heavy school bag.

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

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ASP Joins the First Filipino Therapist Conference and Expo

By: Cricel Elises, ASP Administrative Assistant

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) was invited to the 1st Filipino Therapist Conference and Expo last September 24-25, 2011 at Crowne Plaza, Galleria Manila. According to the organizers, the event aims to help Filipino therapists to become globally competitive. The event was attended by Ms. Peng So, ASP Vice President and this author. Among the speakers and topics discussed as follows:

Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities or RA 7277, an Act providing for the Rehabilitation, Self-Development and Self-Reliance of Persons with Disabilities and their Integration into the Mainstream of Society, was discussed by Ms. Flerida V. Labanon, Regional Program Coordinator of the National Council for Disability Affairs. She also discussed the land mark legislation for the sector is Batas Pambansa Blg. 344, or the Accessibility Law, which mandates public buildings and transport to be accessible to persons with disabilities.

The concept of Laughter Yoga is based on a scientific fact that the body can not differentiate between fake and real laughter. Speaker Mr. Paolo Trinidad said one gets the same physiological and psychological benefits when laughter is simulated. Another speaker on yoga, Mr. Mario Antonio V.M. Reyes explained that the practice of yoga makes the body strong and flexible; it also improves the functioning of the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, and hormonal systems.

Ms. Flerida Labanon discussing the land mark legislation for the sector

“I think being a functional behavior therapist needs a lot of patience, determination and passion to their work,” said Ms. Maria Rosario “Teacher Bunny” Joaquin, co-founder of Shine Special Education Center. She discussed how Functional Behavior Analysis (FBA) can scientifically determine the underlying causes of a specific behavior by identifying the functions and choices of behavior displayed by an individual with special needs.

Ms. Maria Rosario Joaquin one of the speakers and ASP Vice President Peng So

Ms. Celeste Sanchez, author of What Music Therapy Did To George, said music may be used to health care professionals to promote healing and enhance quality of life for their patients. Music Therapy can encourage emotional expression, promote social interaction, and relieve depression.

For the past 20 years as a community/clinical psychologist to the disabled poorest of the poor, Mr. Barney McGlade, head of Pacific Region and the South East Asia CBR Coordination Office of CBM or Christoffen Blinden Mission, tackled the components of Community Based Rehabilitation and how to start a CBR project in our own community towards the inclusion of PWDs into society. The 2nd Asia Pacific CBR Congress will be held in Manila this November.

Over-all the conference was able enhance the organizational, practical skills, competence and ethical service practices of Filipino Therapists and raise the Filipino therapists' awareness of the clients' and patients' need in facing the current society.

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ASP joins Cerebral Palsied Awareness Week Celebrations

By: Cath Genovia, ASP Program Assistant

In solidarity with our brothers and sisters with cerebral palsy and their families, Autism Society Philippines joined the 8th Cerebral Palsied Awareness Week celebrations, with the theme “Ang Cerebral Palsied na may Sapat na Kaalaman at Karapatan, Kayang Ipaglaban” last September 22, 2011. ASP joined the group tree planting in Hagonoy and Closing program in SM Marilao, Bulacan.

ASP Malolos Chapter President, Dr. Anawi Tolentino, headed the tree planting activity together with parent members and children with autism. Dr. Tolentino is concurrently serves as the head of the Special Parents for Special Child (SPSC) in Hagonoy Bulacan. The tree planting was joined by delegates from CPAP, DSWD-NCR, AMO-PDM, KAMPI, PDALD, PARM.

Children planting trees

After the tree planting activity, a short program followed at the house of Hon. Mayor Angel Boy Cruz Jr. The Honorable Mayor was attending an equally important event on that same day and was not able to meet us, but we are honored to have Vice Mayor Rey Santos, who gave the welcome message.

Ms. Maura dela Rosa sharing an inspirational message

An inspirational message followed by Ms. Maura dela Rosa, Asst. Regional Director, DSWD FO II and the response given by Dr. Anawi Tolentino. Also, to make the program more entertaining, kids from SPSC rendered a special dance number. The Closing message was given by Ms. Angelina dela Cruz, MSWDO, Hagonoy.

After the short program, a mouth-watering lunch was prepared for all the guests and participants of the said event courtesy by the Hon. Mayor Angel Boy Cruz Jr.

At 1PM, all the delegates went to SM Marilao for the closing program. Distribution of wheelchairs to selected Cerebral Palsied children were headed by AKAP Pinoy President, Capt. Taleon. Closing remarks was given by Ms. Joanna Hizon of DSWD who chaired the said event.

Cerebral Palsied Association of the Philippines (CPAP) President, Ms. Charito Manglapus thanked all the LGUs, NGOs and other groups who have helped and supported them and made the CPAP celebration a success.

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