ASP Fieldtrip to Sanctuary for Children with Autism ~ Autism Society Philippines

By Cathy Genovia, ASP Program Assistant

ASP Trustees, staff and other families as well as ASP leaders from ASP Lagro and ASP Project 4 Cubao and their families had a wonderful adventure field trip to Philip’s Sanctuary, last November 6, 2011.

Mr. Pepe Pestaño, owner of Philip’s Sanctuary and his friendly staff, welcomed the ASP Family to their outdoor eco-recreation park, located in Pestaño Farm Road, Antipolo City. The 13-hectare property was created this eco-sanctuary in honor of Pepe and Nene Pestaño’s son, the late Ens. Phillip A. Pestano, PN

The trip was almost cancelled due to the heavy rains the previous night, but ASP National President, Grace Adviento, decided to push through with the event. Thankfully, the weather cooperated with the excited children and their family members during the day.

PWA JR Tan led the prayer

ASP National President Mary Grace Adviento welcome the participants

Everyone enjoyed the morning games like the three-legged race prepared by the ASP Staff and the recreational facilities like the hanging bridge, monkey bars, balancing logs, tire-bridge and other exciting team building courses, prepared by the Philip Sanctuary Staff. After the potluck lunch, the group went around the facilities to enjoy the different plant life and cottages. Others swam in the pool and tried the zipline.

The ASP Families enjoyed the facilities of the Philip's Sanctuary

The said field trip is one of the most enjoyable field trips of ASP. The Pestaño’s even prepared a sumptuous merienda of spaghetti and puto. Sir Pepe also spent time talking to the parents and other children. Sir Pepe said, when Philip was alive, he planted some of the indigenous Philippine fruits like mangostene around the sanctuary. He was also fond of children, thus the child-friendly facilities of the park.