ASP represents AAN in Bangkok

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP), Autism Thailand and SMATER Brunei represented the ASEAN Autism Network (AAN) in the recently concluded Asia Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) and Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Workshop in Amari Watergate Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand last July 12 and 13, 2012.

The APCD E-Cafe which the Autism Society Philippines thru Executive Director Ranil Sorongon was one of the member

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon was among NGO leaders represented in the assembly of regional organizations actively promoting the welfare of the Person with Disabilities. Mr. Sorongon discussed the background, objectives and accomplishments of AAN as well as commended the hosts for their support.

Mr. Malai of SMARTER Brunei discussed the challenges and future plans of AAN, focusing on the 2nd AAN General Assembly and Autism Congress scheduled on April 26-28, 2013 in Brunei. The event is organized with the support of APCD, Khum Poon Foundation and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security of Thailand.

The Bangkok workshop brought together participants coming from the networks organized by APCD such as the Asia-Pacific Federation of the Hard of Hearing and Deafened, the AP CBR Network, the South Asian Disability Forum, the Central Asian Disability Forum, the Thailand Council for Independent Living, the Persons with Intellectual Disability of Mekong Region and the AAN.

The workshop was an opportune time to launch the APCD E Café, a digital platform to promote and advocate for the welfare of PWDs in the AP Region. The attendees were able to renew and expand their regional networks towards making rights real of the Person with Disabilties in Asia and the Pacific.

The well-represented workshop is a demonstration of the continued, productive partnership between APCD and JICA; as well as their leading role in making services available to PWDs up to the marginalized communities in the Asia Pacific region.

Read more »

Posted in: international,intl

Sporting Dreams

By: Dang Uy Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus

The world is abuzz with Olympic excitement as the 2012 Summer Olympic Games kicked off in London over the weekend.

PWA Mike Almendrala holds large Philippines Flag

Equally exciting to many in the PWD community is the 2012 Paralympic Games to which the Philippine sent nine differently-abled athletes, the largest in our country’s history.

ASP national secretary, Mona Magno-Veluz (@mightymagulang on Twitter), returns as this week’s Angel Talker.

The Paralympics

The Paralympic (“Para” means beside) movement began in 1949 when German neurologist Sir Ludwig Guttmann from the Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Buckinghamshire, England held sports events for soldiers injured in World War II, as a form of therapy. Dr. Guttmann organized the 1948 International Wheelchair Games to coincide with the 1948 London Olympics.

The Paralympics, by and large, is open to physically-challenged athletes. A ban was imposed on athletes with learning disabilities after the Sydney Games in 2000, when the Spanish basketball team was stripped of its gold medals after some members were accused of faking learning disabilities.

In 2012, the learning disabled is again welcomed in three major Paralympic events — swimming, athletics and table tennis. The organizing committee mandates that each learning disability athlete go through a rigid process of IQ and cognitive skills assessments.

The Philippines first joined the 1988 Paralympic Games in Seoul, Korea, sending four athletes. In the 2000 Games in Sydney, Adeline Dumapong, who had polio and was one of only two representatives, won the country’s first — and so far only — Paralympic medal when she took bronze in powerlifing. The Philippines sent representatives in 2004 and in 2008; but medals were elusive.

Considering the lifting of the controversial ban on athletes with learning disabilities, we are looking forward to seeing the Philippine Sports Association for the Differently-Abled field athletes with physical, as well as mental difficulties (like autism) in the coming years. We look forward to full inclusion in the grass-roots sports training, which develops athletes for Paralympic participation. If our win-haul at the Special Olympics is any indication, the Philippines should be able to improve our medal count at the next quadrennial sporting event.

The Special Olympics

Began by Eunice Kennedy Shriver in the 1960s, the Special Olympics is a non-profit humanitarian organization has provided a global venue to showcase the athletic prowess of individuals with intellectual disability.

Owen Miller, 21, a runner from Dunfermline who has autism, was among the many Special Olympics athletes who were chosen as torchbearers for the 2012 Olympic Games. He has been involved with Special Olympics since he was 14 and came close to qualifying for the 2012 Paralympics.

The Special Olympics in the Philippines has a long and proud tradition of success the international competitions. The Filipino autism community cheers for our very own set of world-class athletes.

Mike Almendrala is a world-class Filipino powerlifter who has garnered medals in multiple world games. In 2005, Mike bagged the Apolinario Mabini Award and distinction of being the first person with autism to gain Civil Service eligibility.

Magiting Gonzales is a powerlifter who has garnered medals multiple times in several international competitions such as the 2003 World Games in Dublin, Ireland, the 2007 World Games in Shanghai and the 2011 World Games in Athens. Magiting works full-time at the National Youth Commission Library.

Dacki San Diego participated in the 2007 World Games in Shanghai, China and won the gold medal in the badminton events. Outside the badminton court, Dacki is a voracious reader and a lover of current events. Dacki was also the first Filipino global messenger selected by Special Olympics International and was one of the athlete guests at the 2008 Idaho World Winter games.

Sports training, like any therapy, provide intellectually disabled men and women continuing opportunities to develop fitness, to demonstrate courage, to experience joy and to make new friends.

You don’t need money to go outdoors and play catch with your child. But if you want to put him on a track for competitive sports, check your local public school for sports programs open to special children or find out what events our friends at the Special Olympics Philippines (http://www.sophilippines.org/) have lined up.

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

This article appeared in the print and online versions of the Manila Bulletin on 29 July 2012.

Read more »

Posted in: angels-talk

The special COMELEC registration of PWDs

Comelec logo

The special COMELEC registration of PWDs shall push through on August 11, 2011. Please coordinate with your local election officers for the venues in your localities. We shall post in Facebook and emails the exact venues as we get hold of the information. This is the final PWD special registration to be conducted by COMELEC.

Please help in disseminating the information to your constituencies. Seek the help of your friends and relatives. Tap the students, the religious, civic and other organizations in disseminating the information. Stickers are being provided by COMELEC which may be distributed to tricycles, jeepneys and buses. It is high time that the PWD vote be counted.

Read more »

Posted in: government

ASP lobbies for "inclusive" public transportation

The ASP was among the groups who braved the EDSA-Ortigas interchange to support the PWD sector in clamoring for accessible transportation towards a truly inclusive society last 23 July 2012. Our very own Executive Director Ranil Sorongon gathered with a group of differently-abled individuals to formally submit a position letter to the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) urging the secretary to address the issues of accessibility to transportation of PWDs. Assistant Secretary Ildefonso Patdu, Jr. warmly welcomed the group headed by Mr. Abner Manlapaz to his office for a dialogue.

Handicapped people in PWD Rally with Mr. Ranilo Sorongon

The group recognized and expressed their gratitude for the initiatives of DOTC and brought up the following issues requiring the government's immediate attention.

1. Elevators of Metro Rail and Light Rail Transits are not functioning. PWDs on wheel chairs need to be carried by the security guards and maintenance personnel which is embarrassing and dangerous.

2. Passenger vessels do not have accessible facilities.

3. Personnel in the transport sectors are not equipped with proper knowledge and skills on how to respond to the needs of PWDs -- either physical or otherwise.

4. No accessible public buses to provide transportation to persons using wheel chairs.

ASec Patdu recognized the need to level up the responses of his department from providing logistical support to policies and projects that will really impact the lives of PWDs. The meeting will be followed up the a multi-sectoral planning session in August to discuss concrete steps to address the issues and concerns.

The NPDR Week celebration coincided with the birth of our hero Apolinario Mabini, the sublime paralytic, the brain of the Philippine Revolution, and the epitome of what the Filipino PWD should aspire to be. He was a man who proved that disability is not a hindrance to serve the motherland.

Read more »

Posted in: community,government,ndpr

ASP Chapter President Elected QC PWD Federation Auditor

The Quezon City Social Services and Development Department facilitated the General Assembly of the QC Persons with Disabilities Federation last 23 July 2012 at the Quezon City Hall, as part of the 34th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week. The Federation, headed by Mr. Renato Cada, was instrumental in advocating for the passage of the ordinance establishing the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) in the city.

ASP Proj. 3 Chapter President Nato Agbayani with other participants during the PWD Federation Gen. Assembly

ASP was represented at the Federation assembly and election by Mr. Fortunato Agbayani (President of Project 3 QC Chapter and Trustee of ASP National), Ms. Linda Legarto (President of ASP Project 4 Cubao Chapter), Ms. Josephine Palomares (President of ASP Diliman Chapter), Ms. Lilia Taroy (President of ASP Commonwealth Chapter) and Executive Director Ranil Sorongon. ASP is a special stakeholder in Quezon City as seven chapters and its National Office all call QC home.

ASP Project 3 President Fortunato “Nato” Agbayani was elected as member of the board and was again elected as Auditor of the Federation. The election of Mr. Agbayani will ensure the continuous representation of autism concerns in the policies and projects which impact the disability sector.

Congratulations, Nato! Your ASP family wishes you a productive year of service ahead!

Read more »

Posted in: community,government,leaders,ndpr

ASP Laguna honored for pioneering efforts in PWD employment and training

ASP Laguna was recognized for their unwavering commitment to improving the social and economic conditions of persons with autism and other disabilities through training and employment.

ASP Ranilo Sorongon received the honors in behalf of ASP Laguna at the “Stakeholders’ Forum on Employment Opportunities” at the Occupational Safety and Health Center, Quezon City held last 17 July 2012.

Ms. Carmen Zubiaga, Mr. Ranilo Sorongon and NDPR officers

The forum was among the activities that opened the 34th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week celebration with the theme “Mainstreaming Persons with Disability in Economic Development.”

ASP Laguna is the brains and heart behind the Autism Resource Center (ARC) in Sta. Fe Subdivision, Batong Malake, Los Baños, Laguna. The ARC operates a diner wherein PWAs and other developmental disabilities serve as cashier, physical arranger, busboy and dishwasher. PWAs also serve as messengers, office assistants, packers of rice and other products. They also produce arts and crafts like angel charms, paper bags and charcoal briquettes (made from waste paper). Every December, the ARC trainees, apprentices and workers receive their share of the profit.

From your ASP family, congratulations, ASP Laguna Chapter! May your achievements continue to inspire the PWA sector!

Read more »

Posted in: awards,chapters,government,ndpr

Strike Two: Reflections on Senator Santiago's Actions

By Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National Secretary.

JR Tan

The actions of Senator Mirian Defensor Santiago resonated strongly with JR Tan, a graduating college student, taking up BS Accountancy, with minor in Biblical Studies. As an individual on the autism spectrum, he is passionate about autism rights and is one of the first self-advocate members of ASP. JR sent the Autism Society Philippines two open letters in reaction to the senator's angered statement to her detractors, calling them "mongoloids", last week.

His first letter:

Dear ASP,

I was shocked to read today’s Manila Bulletin article on “PWD advocates score solon for use of word ‘mongoloid’". This offends families of loved ones with Down Syndrome and Persons with DS.

In 2008, I remember Senator Santiago misusing the word autistic to refer a general who had no response or reaction to her statements. After my comments were published in Anak TV’s column (November 9, 2008) and ASP sent her a letter, I was glad the Senator sent her apology.

Now, with this issue on the offensive use of the term mongoloid, here is my advice for ASP.

First things first, Senator Santiago should be careful with the choice of her words. She should check the internet for the right words to use when speaking in public.

Secondly, if possible, NCDA or the National Council on Disability Affairs should sponsor a one-one-one seminar for her regarding disability rights. ASP can also send her a copy of RA 9442.

Thirdly, in future if she violates RA 9442 again or vilifies any Person with Autism or Down Syndrome or any other disability, she must be fined P200,000 and serve jail time, at the discretion of the Secretary of Justice.

In baseball, they say, “three strikes, you’re out.” Let’s give her another chance and wait for her apology.

Sincerely,
JR Tan
Self-advocate

Later in the week, the senator issued a statement, explaining her side -- which our friends from the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines recognized as a reconciliation effort. JR followed up with another letter.

Dear ASP,

After reading her official statement, I would still give Sen. Santiago another chance, although she is not sorry.

If she has the wisdom to create bills that will benefit People with DS, just like what she did for People with Autism and fight for their rights [frag].

Although she is offering her hand in friendship, it may take time to rebuilt trust.

Next time, I hope if the Senator will use words, she will be more sensitive, not use derogatory words or misuse or label incompetent people by comparing them to PWDs.

I want to wish her all the best in pursuing her new career in the International Court of Justice and may she do the best that she can.

Sincerely,
JR Tan
Self-Advocate

JR's astute opinions are his; but are echoed by many in the PWD community.

For the record, the good senator who has been so vigilant in introducing and supporting laws that benefit the autism community, did NOT violate Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, as she did not actually ridicule any PWD.

But just like 50Cent, who called one particularly unpleasant Twitter troll "autistic" earlier this month, Senator Santiago felt it was clever to use a disability to put down an aggressor.

My thoughts: As individuals, we should strive to look at people (disabled or not) with compassion and empathy -- not with labels that are meant to make us feel superior.

For our public officials, the bar is set higher. Your actions should represent what our society aspires to be. We expect you to be human and to commit mistakes. But we also expect you rise from even your smallest mistakes with humility, a firm resolve NOT to repeat the same mistake and a genuine effort to make amends.

It is my earnest hope that Senator Miriam, whose fighting spirit mirrors that of many passionate autism parents, does not -- using JR’s baseball analogy -- “strike out”.

Read more »

Posted in: pers

NDPR 2012: ASP Cavite Chapters Special Mini-Olympics kicks Off with a big bang

By Gerard Joseph Atienza, ASP Bacoor Cavite Chapter.

For the 4th time, the joint forces of the ASP Cavite Chapters, the Provincial Government of Cavite, and SM City Dasmariñas kicked off with the annual Cavite Special Mini-Olympics (SM-O) with a loud and big bang last July 16, 2012 at The Events Center of SM City Dasmariñas. The Cavite SM-O is traditionally held every year by ASP Cavite Chapters as part of the weeklong observance of National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week. This year's theme "Mainstreaming PWDs in Economic Development" acknowledges and recognizes the talents and skills of “persons with 'D abilities” that translate to future work and career potentials.

Olympic Dance in black

Ten (10) SPED centers participated in the opening competitions of the mini-olympics: the Search for Mr. and Ms. NDPR 2012, where school muses and escorts paraded and posed in their smart work and career attires, and the Creative Gymnastics Competition, which was an energetic way of anticipating the olympic sports and games events. Around 500 students, teachers, and parents witnessed the awesome pageantry and the unique gymnastic exhibitions, which were creatively executed with dances, stunts and cheerings. This year's Mr. and Ms. NDPR 2012 are Heaven Bryony Lauzon and John Wayne Shin, both children with Down Syndrome, from Dasmariñas City Center for Special Needs. Hopewell Integrated School (Bacoor) emerged as the winner in the Creative Gymnastics competition.

ASP Cavite thanks all participating schools for their good will to involve the PWD children in this yearly exercise. Quoting ASP President Jan Peña: "If we don't take these opportunities, what can we give to our children?"

The SM Dasmariñas event was the first salvo of the Special Mini-Olympics, and more events are upcoming: Malikhaing Sabayang Bigkas (July 23 at the SM City Bacoor), Developmental and Junior Games (July 25 at the Animo Center, De La Salle Health Sciences Institute), and the Senior Sports and Games (July 28 at St Francis Learning Center, General Trias). Awarding and Closing Ceremonies will be held on July 30 at the SM City Rosario.

Read more »

Posted in: ndpr,regional,special

Orientation for New ASP Volunteers

By Helen Villocino – de Leon, ASP Member

The pilot orientation program for new volunteers of Autism Society Philippines was held at the national office in Quezon City last 7 July 2012.

Immediate Past National President Grace Adviento and National Secretary Mona Magno-Veluz welcomed our intimate group. Facilitating our discussion was a group of able Organizational Communication majors from the De La Salle University -- Anna Chichioco, Katrina de Guzman and Stephanie Mendiola -- who designed the program as part of their undergraduate thesis.

The volunteers who were first to undergo the program were Helen de Leon, a mother who continues to be passionate about autism advocacy even after the death of her 28-year old PWA son almost a year ago; Annie Federico, a training specialist from the Philippine National Police and Matthew Guillen, an ABA Therapist from Whelpcare Learning Center, Quezon City.

The dialogue was casual; but purposeful. It was apparent during the expectation-setting session that the new volunteers were there out of an unselfish desire to share their time and talents and expected nothing in return; because contributing to ASP's noble advocacy work was reward enough. The ASP leadership responded to the overwhelming generosity of spirit with a promise of continuous dialogue, hands-on coaching from experienced volunteers, and a steady stream of opportunities to help.

In the past, ASP managed volunteers who are introduced to us by existing members or who are employees of institutional members. The association continues to open its doors to "green" volunteers -- those who may have no previous connection or experience with ASP -- as part of the redefinition of its Volunteer Management Program.

Make a difference in autism advocacy. Get involved -- donate, partner or sign up for the ASP Angel Corps.

Read more »

Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4public,4pwas,4siblings,seminar

ASP meets with Daet Mayor Sarion to support EDIP

ASP launched a three-year Early Detection and Intervention Project (EDIP) with the funding support of Autism Society Norway and the Norwegian Overseas Development Assistance (NORAD) back in 2004. The project intended to educate Barangay Health Workers (BHW), Day Care Teachers (DCT) as well as parents, on the signs and symptoms of autism and the early management strategies of autism.

Ranilo Sorongon speaking to participants during EDIP Launch

ASP was able to train nearly 2,000 BHWs, DCTs and parents in Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, in partnership with the Local Government Units (LGUs) and the Local Chapters of ASP over three years. When the project ended in 2006, ASP decided to continue the project with the support of local donors, LGU’s and ASP’s fund raising events. ASP now seeks greater support and funding from LGus in the training of their constituencies.

ASP Executive Director met with Hon. Tito Sarte Sarion, Mayor of Daet, Camarines Norte, Prof. Rex Bernardo, a noted PWD Leader of Daet, Mr. Norman Ebona, representative of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office and Ms. Adel Martinez, former president of ASP Lucena chapter last July 9, 2012. The group discussed responsibilities of each party and the preparation for the EDIP training in the coming months. The meeting with the mayor was the last stop of Director Sorongon’s visit to Bicol. He visited Virac, Catanduanes, Legazpi, Albay and Naga, Camarines Sur with ASP Trustee Gina Bermudo.

To those who may want to conduct EDIP trainings, kindly contact ASP National Office at 7-903-5496 or email at autismphils@gmail.com.

Read more »

Posted in: community,regional,seminar

ASP inducts 3 new chapters in Bicol

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon and Trustee Gina Bermudo visited our friends from the Bicol region from July 5 to 9, 2012, in keeping with the organization's commitment of bringing hope and help to Filipino families living with autism nationwide. Sorongon and Bermudo met with autism welfare advocates in Virac (Catanduanes), Legazpi (Albay), Naga City (Camarines Sur) and Daet, Camarines Norte).

Autism Welfare Advocates

ASP Trustee Gina Bermudo assisted Hon. Roy Laynes in the induction of the officers of newly organized ASP Virac Chapter, headed by Ms. Marjorie Cantollas.

In meetings with the chapter leaders of ASP Legazpi chapter, Sorongon and Bermudo discussed the possibility of staging a “Regional Conference on Autism” in Bicol. Ms. Amy Bolinas, the head of the Philippine Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Network, who is based in Legazpi City, was in attendance.

Gina Bermudo also led the induction of the new set of officers of the ASP Naga Chapter headed by President Ma. Beatriz Balmaceda.

Director Sorongon inducted the officers of the ASP Daet, Camarines Sur Chapter, headed by Dr. Arsenio M. Angeles Jr.

Director Sorongon was joined by Ms. Adel Martinez, the former president of ASP Lucena Chapter during his visit to the Dioneda Special Education Center where the induction took place.

Gina Bermudo gave lectures on Understanding Autism and an informal Family Support Group meetings; while Director Sorongon gave a lecture on Republic Act (RA) 9442 or Discounts for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) as well as some updates on the disability sector.

The ASP National Office appreciates the hospitality of all the chapters, of Mayor Sarion of Daet, of Hon. Laynes of Virac, of the Dioneda family and of all who contributed to the success of the visit.

* * * * *

For those who are interested to organize a chapter, kindly contact ASP National Office at 7-903-5496 or email at autismphils@gmail.com

Read more »

Posted in: leaders,regional

ASP conducts orientation in Pasay City

ASP conducted an orientation attended by 49 parents of children with autism and special education teachers of P. Villanueva Elementary School in Pasay City last July 5, 2012, in keeping with the organization's commitment of empowering the community to address the challenges faced by individuals with autism.

Mr. Ranilo Sorongon with parents and teachers

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon and Trustee Beth Udquin gave a session about ASP and its legacy of support to Filipinos affected by autism. They also explained to the participants the rights, benefits and responsibilities of a member of the organization.

Director Sorongon also gave an orientation on Republic Act 9442, the law that provides PWDs benefits like 20% discounts on medicines and transportation and 5% discounts on prime commodities.

Parents and teachers were thankful for the fellowship and shared information, which they all hoped would pave the way for the birth of a Pasay City chapter of the ASP. Their group has been participating in the activities of ASP like the Angels Walk and Family Day. Building a ASP Pasay City chapter will strengthen the relationship with the rest of the ASP family and will enable this passionate group of parent an educators to leverage on the strengths and resources of the national organization.

ASP would like to thank Ms. Leny Ballesteros, the principal of P. Villanueva Elementary School and Pasay SPED Center and her teachers for organizing the said orientation, providing the snacks and arranging for the venue.

* * * * *

For those who are interested in organizing a chapter, kindly contact ASP at 7-903-5496. You may also email us at autismphils@gmail.com.

Read more »

Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4public,seminar

No registered PWAs in Virac, Catanduanes

Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer Josefina T. Ramirez with ASP E.D. Ranil Sorongon

As a member of the Monitoring Committee on the Implementation of the Republic Act 9442 under the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), ASP's Executive Director Ranil Sorongon visited the local government office of Virac, Catanduanes, where he was welcomed by Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer Josefina T. Ramirez.

Director Sorongon was briefed of the programs for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and was informed that their office only distributed 48 PWD IDs to individuals with physical disabilities. So far, no person with autism (PWA) has been registered. Their office provides medicine booklets so PWDs can avail discounts when buying medicines; but the purchase booklet on prime commodities is not yet available due to insufficient budget. Forms are also not readily available, as Sorongon discovered; and are only printed upon request.

After the MSWDO visit, Director Sorongon proceeded to survey commercial establishments in Virac on the compliance to RA 9442. At a branch of Mercury Drug, he was informed, to his relief, that the drugstore "gives discounts on medicine to PWDs, provided they have their ID and medicine discount booklet and the doctor’s prescription”. The newly-opened branch of Jollibee in the town also gives discounts to PWDs.

The Autism Society Philippines has high hopes that our ASP Catanduanes chapter, headed by Mrs. Marjorie Cantollas, will fervently champion the rights of individuals with autism and the benefits which our government extends to the disabled sector. We hope to see the improved knowledge and implementation of the laws meant to protect the welfare of PWDs.

Read more »

Posted in: chapters,government,regional

Animals for Autism

By: Dang Uy Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus

Having household pets or having structured contact with animals is proving to be a great complement to the management of autism. More important still, many opine that atypical qualities unique to individuals on the spectrum make animal-related careers viable options in adulthood. Dr. Temple Grandin, in her book “Animals in Translation”, considered her limited language skills early in life and hypersensitivity to visual or auditory stimuli -- manifestations of her autism -- as factors that fuelled her ability to decode animal behavior and that contributed to her success as an animal scientist.

And here’s what our angel talker Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National Board Secretary (aka blogger Mighty Magulang), found out about the topic.

Research and practical experience

As early as the 1970s, David Nathanson’s research concluded that being around dolphins could increase the attention of children with autism, enhance cognitive activities, help them learn faster, and retain information longer.

More recent studies showcased in the Western Journal of Nursing Research disclosed the effects of interaction between children with autism spectrum disorders and dogs; where they observed that children who played with the live dog were in a better mood and more aware of their surroundings than the children who were exposed to a ball or a stuffed toy.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) launched the Dr. Dog Campaign in 1997. The program recognizes the comfort and joy brought to pediatric cancer patients after interaction with dogs. Children, who were once withdrawn, spoke to the dogs and expressed excitement to their family members and hospital staff after the Dr. Dog visits.

The idea at work

Pet Therapy. Aside from giving the children the opportunity to be responsible for the animals’ needs, pets help CWAs communicate and interact. And what animals make good pets for children with autism? Dogs, cats, birds, horses, guinea pigs and hamsters have proven to be effective in various studies. But as behaviors of specific animals vary as much as behaviors of humans, the search for the perfect companion is a personal adventure of discovery. Parents would have to decide, based on their living situation and their child’s abilities and preferences, what makes the most sense.

Dolphin-Assisted Therapy. Proponents of this method report that the exposure of children suffering from neurological or neuro-developmental disorders to specially-trained dolphins lengthened attention spans, improved emotional control, minimized ritual behavior and increased the desire to communicate in study respondents. While the effectiveness of this therapy is challenged, water-immersed play provides, at the very least, calming tactile stimulation to children who are sensitive to touch.

Juris of the ASP City of San Fernando Pampanga Chapter enjoys wading with dolphins at the Subic Ocean Adventure. [With permission from Joyla Ofrecia.]

Autism Assistance Dogs. It is unfortunate that assistance dogs have not yet reached mainstream popularity in the Philippines. They have been limited to defense, patrol and search canines. Many public facilities like malls and hospitals do not allow dogs to enter their establishments, much less differentiate between regular pets and support dogs. But many countries in the First World, like the United States, United Kingdom and Australia have successfully deployed rigorously-trained autism service dogs to help PWAs gain independence, and confidence to perform daily living activities by providing sensory processing support.

Macky has learned to handle puppies with gentle care. He no longer squeezes them. [With permission from Josephine Palomares.]

Hippotherapy. Exposure to horses has been clinically proven to change brainwave patterns, according to Franklin Levinson, an expert in Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL). Riding horses allows individuals with autism to live in the now, minimizing stimming or moving repetitively to stimulate one or more senses. According to Monette Rosario, horse-trainer, riding coach and owner of the Marikina Equestrian Center, hippotherapy requires specially-trained horses and she looks forward to the day when she could partner with a therapy center to pioneer this method in the country. In the meantime, volunteers from the Riding for the Disabled Association, a local affiliate of the UK-based charity, provide one-on-one recreational riding for PWAs at the Manila Polo Club Stables.

Parents and educators in the autism sector are always on the lookout for, if not alternative therapy modalities, simply the opportunity to bring joy to our children on the spectrum and enrich their lives. Perhaps we should go beyond our comfort zones and discover for ourselves if animals hold the key.

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

This article appeared in the print and online versions of the Manila Bulletin on 16 July 2012

Read more »

Posted in: angels-talk

5th Regional Conference on Autism

5th Regional Conference on Autism

(2nd CALABARZON Conference)

September 8-9, 2012

San Lazaro Business and Leisure Park, Carmona, Cavite

Barangay Lantic

The target audience for this conference are local government Mayors, focal persons for Persons with Disabilities (PWD), parents, educators, professionals, students and and advocates.

Day 1 will highlight Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Best Practices and Sites of the Municipality of Carmona to present a recognized model program for (PWD) to all LGU’s in Region 4A. Day 1 will also look at parent empowerment and home-centered care for adults in transition.

Day 2 will focus on autism outcomes and home-based intervention for Persons with Autism (PWA), family support, PWAs’ journeys plus sibling roles and empowerment.

For us, Home is not only Family. Home is our Community. Home is our Town, Our Province, our Region. Let us elevate our aspirations for our children with autism beyond family. Let us make ready for them a wider haven that will nurture their minds and capabilities towards more productive and meaningful lives! Home is our Hope!

Conference Program
Emcee: Ms. Kismette Cepe - Riguerra

DAY 1 7:30am - 8:30am
- Registration

8:30am - 9:00am
- Opening Ceremonies:
- Conference Theme Song - HOPE@HOME
- National Anthem
- Opening Prayer: PDAO, Carmona
- Conference Overview

- Welcome Remarks
- Mary Janette I. Peña
- National President, Autism Society Philippines

9:00am - 9:30am
- Message of HOPE
- Hon. Juanito Victor C. Remulla
- Governor, Cavite City

- Oath-Taking of ASP National Board of Trustees and Chapter Officers

CONFERENCE PROPER

9:30am - 10:15am
-HOME Base: Getting Started
Prof. Abelardo Apollo I. David, Jr., MOccThy, OTRP
Executive Director, Independent Living Learning Centre (ILLC)
and Quality Life Discoveries (QLD)

10:15am - 11:00am
- HOPE@Last! Government on the Move
(Local Government’s Response to Autism)
Dra. Dahlia A. Loyola
Mayor, Carmona, Cavite City

11:00am - 12:00nn
- HOME Visit: Persons with Disabilty Affairs Office (PDAO) Carmona

12:00nn - 1:00pm
- Lunchbreak

1:15pm - 2:15pm
- COMMUNITY-BASED REHABILITATION (CBR): How Do You Do It?
- Dra. Dahlia A. Loyola
Mayor, Carmona, Cavite City

2:15pm - 3:30pm
- HOME Along the Spectrum - Pains and Gains (Parents’ Panel)

- Moderator: Ms. Dang Uy-Koe
- Panelists: Mr. Evert Malapad
- Dr. Ma. Luisa Campos-Cagingin
- Ms. Beth Udquin
- Ms. Cathy Lopez
- Ms. Adel Ilagan

3:30pm - 4:30pm
- No Place Like HOME: PWA Moving On
- Ms. Noemi T. Viado
Directress, GS Option Haus for Autism and Related Disorder, Laguna

DAY 2

8:00am - 8:30am
- Registration

8:30am - 9:00am
- Opening Prayer
Robert Meigh “Buboy” Dolor w/ Sibling Robert, Jr.

Recap of Day 1

9:00am - 11:00am
- Managing Autism through HOME-Based Intervention:
Guide to Families and CBR Workers
Ma. Cecilia D. Licuan, PTRP, Ph D

11:00am - 12:00nn
- Family Support: Feeling at HOME
Marie Grace Gomez, Ph.D., RGC

12:00nn - 1:00pm
- Lunchbreak

1:00pm - 1:15pm
- HOME is Where the Heart Is
Mr. Gabriel DJ Atienza, Self-Advocate

1:15pm - 2:30pm
- HOME Run - PWA’s in Action (PWAs’ Panel)

- Moderator: Ms. Mona Magno-Veluz
- Panelists: Mr. Gabriel Atienza
- Mr. Gerard Joseph Andrew Atienza
- Mr. Mikko del Rosario
- Mr. Paul Ian Garcia

2:30pm - 3:30pm
- Siblings: Cope@HOME
Ms. Rosalyn Marie Gison- Sorongon, MA Ed.

3:30pm - 4:30pm
- HOMEward Bound (Siblings’ Panel)

- Moderator: Ms. Rosalyn Marie Gison- Sorongon, MA Ed.
- Panelists: Ms. Anthea Carmeli Peña
- Ms. Hycee Ramos
- Ms. Banesa Baba
- Mr. Mark Zeta

4:30
- The Cavite Siblings: HOPE@HOME
Special Number

- Closing Remarks
Ms. Albinia D. Marquez, Conference Chair

Registration Fees:
Pre-registration until August 31, 2012
ASP Members - P1, 500
Non-ASP - P2, 000
Students (ASP) - P1, 000
Non-ASP - P1, 200
Siblings - P1, 000

On-site Registration
ASP Members - P2, 000
Non-ASP - P2, 200
Students (ASP) - P1, 000
Non-ASP - P1, 200

*A group of 10 registrants will be entitled to P200 discount per head. *Fee includes seminar kit, certificate, AM/PM snacks and lunch for two (2) days. *For more information and inquiries contact Chie Marquez-ASP Bacoor @ 0917-540-6727

For us, Home is not only Family. Home is our Community. Home is our Town, our Province, our Region. Let us elevate our aspirations for persons with autism beyond family. Let us make ready for them a wider haven that will nurture their minds and capabilities towards more productive and meaningful lives! Home is our Hope!

Read more »

Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4public,4pwas,4siblings,regional,seminar

The Birth of ASP Catanduanes Chapter

By Fatima Dalisay Kozma, ASP-CC Vice President.

The Autism Society Philippine Catanduanes Chapter (ASP-CC) was worth the wait. Despite the temptation to give up, the desire to pursue the advocacy remained. With the help of prayer and friends, our dream of organizing an ASP Chapter become a reality.

ASP Catanduanes Chapter with ASP Trustee Gina Bermudo and Executive Director Ranil Sorongon

Every time I look into the eyes of AA, my 17-year old son with autism, I am reminded of how important this advocacy is. Being a parent of a child with autism is like walking in the dark. ASP-CC represents “a glimpse of hope” for all of us.

Marjorie “Hanny” Cantollas, the newly elected President of ASP-CC, recapped the amazing week which culminated our work towards creating a chapter of the biggest parent-led autism welfare organization in the country.

"The ASP Orientation and Seminar happened from July 5 to July 6. The members and participants were in awe as they witnessed ASP Trustee Gina Luna Bermudo’s very informative seminar on Autism Awareness. After the seminar, parents of CWA and their children attended a heartwarming family support group. Emotions poured and about twenty participants asked questions most relevant to their family. Meanwhile, ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon shared important information regarding the rights and benefits of Persons with Disability (PWDs), as mandated by RA 9442.

"To complete the birth of the chapter, the newly elected officers were sworn into office by the Vice Mayor of Catanduanes, Hon. Roy Laynes.

"Our Motorcade, along the main roads and Barangay side roads of Virac, were lead by the island’s Philippine National Police, followed by motorbikes and paced by the inspiring beat of the music of the Icasa band. Lilac and green balloons, ribbons and “banderitas” added a a festive mood to the affair. Candies were also thrown to the streets to the delight of the children and bystanders.

"ASP-CC extends it’s heartfelt appreciation to our guests Mrs. Gina Luna Bermudo and ASP Executive Board Director, Mr. Ranil Sorongon. Words would never be enough to express the miracle, nor joy this launching has made in the lives of the members and the families affected by autism. Today we are blessed! DIOS Mabalos po!"

Read more »

Posted in: 4parents,community,regional

Vocational Training for Persons with Autism and ABCs of Job Coaching Seminars

“Vocational Training for Persons with Autism”

28 July 2012, Saturday, 09:00-12:00NN

The seminar will center on transition and vocational training concepts, principles, and best practices that will equip participants in creating vocational skills training programs for adolescents and adults with special needs. These will be coupled with hands-on experiences from vocational skills training and life skills training programs. It will likewise discuss the use of the Structured Teaching principle based on the acclaimed TEACCH approach and its role in program implementation. Factors, issues, and concerns related to work transition will be tackled, as well.

“ABCs of Job Coaching”

28 July 2012, Saturday, 01:30-4:30 PM

The seminar will focus on supported employment and job coaching concepts, principles, and practices. It will likewise include guidelines, tips, roles, and responsibilities for job coaches in the Philippine setting. The discussion will be paired with the hands-on experiences of The Learning Center, Inc. (TLC)’s On-the-Job Training Program since 2002.

Ms. Landa Bautista

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. Teacher Landa is the Curriculum Director of The Learning Center, Inc. (TLC), a non-stock, non-profit special education school for individuals with special needs. She administers the schools internal and external affairs and develops the school's Special Education curricula. 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. 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. Teacher Landa is a staunch advocate of individuals with special needs and has been a resource person for various articles on Special Education and childhood development. She is regularly requested to give lectures on various Special Education topics of interests and publishes her professional recommendations through her “Dear Teacher Landa” advice blog.

Venue: Quality Life Discoveries, 70, 20th Avenue, Murphy, Quezon City
Seminar Fee is inclusive of certificate, handouts and snacks

Single Seminar
Pre-reg. until July 25
Member P400.00
Non-Member P500.00

On-site Registration
Member P500.00
Non-Member P600.00

Double Seminar
Pre-reg. until July 25
Member P700.00
Non-Member P800.00

On-site Registration
Member P800.00
Non-Member P1,000.00

Pre-registered participants may pay to Autism Society Philippines, Metro Bank, Kamias Branch Account # 047-3-04751874-2. Please fax the deposit slip with the name/s of participant/s to ASP office and bring it on the day of the seminar. On-site registrants will be accepted depending on the availability of slots. There will only be 70 slots available. No refund will be given to participants who did not show up on the date of the seminar. For more details, please call ASP at 7-903-5496.

The ASP Seminar Series serves as a platform to educate Filipino parents and professionals on the various interventions, modalities and theories surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder. Their application and implementation are left at your discretion. The views and personal experiences of the speakers are of their own and don’t necessarily reflect that of the views of the organization.

For Online Registration, click here

Read more »

Posted in: 4parents,4pros,seminar

ASP Family Support Group for July 2012

Ms. Grace Adviento

This month’s facilitator is Ms. Grace Adviento. Serving her fourth term as Trustee, Grace has made grand contributions to ASP. Her down-to-earth and magnetic appeal as ASP’s Auditor makes her one of the best facilitators of Early Detection and Intervention Program and SM Autism Orientation.

Grace is “face of ASP mom.” Her photos with her 11 year old son, Adrian, appear on ASP marketing collaterals. She brings encouragement to mothers that life with autism can be exciting, giving smiles of hope to other families.

Sign up now and learn practical tips and how to advocate for your child with autism. Fill out here to sign up online or call 7-903-5496. Only 15 seats available!

ASP Family Support Group

23 June 2012, Saturday, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

ASP Office, Room 307, ML Bldg., #47 Kamias Road, Quezon City

Read more »

Posted in: fsg

ASP Wins 2011 Karapatan sa Malikhaing Paraan (KaSaMa) Contest

It came as a surprise. Autism Society Philippines’ proposal was chosen as one of the winners of the 2011 Karapatan sa Malikhaing Paraan (KaSaMa) search for an innovative human rights project organized by the Ateneo School of Government, the Ateneo Human Rights Center and the Caucus for Development NGO Networks (CODE). The winning proposal, which will be funded by the Australian Aid (AusAID), is “Educating Children with Disabilities of their Rights Using the Digital Talking Books”.

This novel project aims to educate 500 children with disabilities (children with autism, children with Down Syndrome, children with visual impairment, children with intellectual disability and children with cerebral palsy of their rights using non traditional way, the digital talking books. The use of this medium is being promoted by the Philippine DAISY Network wherein ASP is a member. The network is recognized by the International Digital Accessible Information System (DAISY) Consortium headed by Mr. Hiroshi Kawamura.

This one year project that started last May 1 includes ASP chapters, other parent support groups, private and public special education centers and non government organizations working for children with disabilities in Metro Manila and the nearby provinces as partners in the implementation of the project. It will employ Mr. Gabby Atienza, a person with Asperger Syndrome as the cartoonist to come up with cartoons that will depict the rights of the child that will be included in the social stories to be converted into digital format.

For the past weekends, ASP through Executive Director Ranil Sorongon has been giving project orientations to prospective partners in Quezon City for the north sector, Los Baños for South Luzon and Las Piñas for Metro South. There were 57 participants who joined the orientations, they all gave positive feedbacks about the project and even volunteered to help in any way to help in the success of the noble undertaking.

ASP National Office would like to thank New Hope SpEd Center, Quezon City, Autism Resource Center (ARC) in Los Baños, Laguna and the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD), Las Piñas for hosting the orientation for free.

Other SPED Centers who would like to become partners are still welcome. Kindly contact the ASP National Office at 7-903-5496 or email at autismphils@gmail.com for details.

Read more »

Posted in: special

Maging Usiserong Nanay at Tatay

By Tiffany Tan, ASP Correspondent.

With the aims of supporting parents and family members of children with autism, ASP welcomes our newly elected board member, Ms. Beth Udquin to facilitate the Family Support Group last Saturday, 23 June 2012 at ASP National Office, Quezon City. The FSG was attended by fathers and mothers of individuals on the spectrum, and supported by ASP National President, Jan Peña and this author.

Group photo of the June 23 FSG facilitated by Mom Beth Udquin (seated 3rd from right)

The Udquin family was the subject of UNTV’s Istoria last January, which short documentary on autism. Beth who serves as the President of ASP UP CAMP Chapter, was also one of the guest panelists in "The Family’s Journey" panel discussion in ASP’s 12th National and 2nd Southeast Asian Conference on Autism last April 2012.

According to Beth, working with the marginalized sector of families dealing with autism in the Tondo area has taught her to be creative. With her background in clinical psychology, and by attending numerous ASP Seminars; she has become empowered in helping her two young sons, who were both diagnosed with autism.

She said lack of resources should not be a hindrance to seek for help and support. Because of her sons, she scouted around hospitals and centers for affordable therapy services around Manila. Currently, her sons are receiving therapy at UP CAMP Manila, with an affordable P50 fee for an hour’s session. Her sons are also enrolled in P. Burgos Elementary School, a public school located in Manila that caters to children with autism and other disabilities.

She urged the parents present to be “ma-usi,” a colloquial term meaning to be inquisitive. It is not enough for parents to sit back and let professionals do therapy work; but rather be a good observer, ask questions, and have consistent follow through at home. She also said children with autism thrive in a structured schedule and environment, and gave some practical examples and suggestions for the parents to follow.

Beth also believes that parents need to be educated and equipped in handling their own children with autism. She diligently documents reports and handouts from seminars, and chart their children’s progress through the collected data. She hopes that through this process, other parents may also adapt the same principle for their own children’s benefit.

Living with Autism on A Budget, Beth’s story, has inspired many parents, both locally and internationally. One parent from the US wrote ASP that he was “ashamed” to complain about the government’s cuts in welfare support for their children after reading their story.

The Udquins have not only empowered themselves, but also their two sons to be pro-active in the boys' small mobile sari-sari store business; while teaching entrepreneurial, speech and occupational therapy and life skills. The Udquins have also turned part of their home into a mini-therapy center for her sons. They hope to expand their home based therapy center to extend help to their community.

***

ASP continues to work hard to equip other parents in their autism journey. Sign up on-line for the next Family Support Group or contact our office for details.

Do your share in bringing programs which empower families and educators to help the autism sector. Donate to ASP.

Read more »

Posted in: fsg

Take and Give -- ASP’s Support for Parents

By: Jan Peña, ASP National President.

Parents of newly diagnosed children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are alarmed by common concerns about their children. Some of these were mentioned during the just concluded Family Support Group held on 23 June 2012 at the ASP National Office.

Elizabeth Udquin leads Family Support Group

Among them are undeveloped speech, or inability to express their wants or needs; lack of focus and low attention span, manipulative behavior (such as crying and or having tantrums); hyperactivity, repetitive behavior, fixation to objects, sleeping and toileting problems. With anxiety at a toll, early intervention, as advised, will be vain, unless it begins with parents' education.

Early on, parents need to understand that a child with ASD is endowed with a brain that is differently configured or "wired" from that of a neurotypical (the "normal" as we say). The range of "atypical" and "disturbing" patterns of behavior that we perceive is truly his nature -- a result of his brain's condition.

While there is no way that we can change the child's brain so that we can "make our children become like us”, there is a limitless number of ways by which we can help them to overcome (not solve) the sensory, behavior and communication difficulties.

First, parents need to understand their children with autism first; then accept their children’s condition; but not to get stuck in their diagnosis. Parents also need to know their own child, and to understand that while he is alike in many ways with other kids in the spectrum, he is also different.

Knowing your own child should challenge parents to summon your God-given wisdom and creativity to turn your child's deficits, fears and fixations into strengths that will enable him to overcome and even excel. This means parents must change focus from anxiety and worrying to actively studying strategies that could address the child's present needs (not future needs!)

We can learn from what therapists and teachers do to teach basic skills as sitting, waiting and activities of daily living (ADL). We can learn from seminars and through reading. A word of caution though, not everything we get from seminars and books may not be exactly compatible to the nature of our child, nor are easily available and affordable. However, we can apply the worthy principles by modifying the settings, materials or content according to our child's needs and capacity.

Last, being part of a support group like the ASP may already address half of the parents' anxieties and fears. A support group is made up of people who by their common experience are able to relate and exhale their loads to one another. More than that, a support group like the ASP is made up of people who are "experienced" and have hurdled the toughest tests and are now acting as mentors to fellow parents. Best, a support group like the ASP offers opportunities and services which members not only TAKE but also GIVE.

Read more »

Posted in: fsg,pers

Disability: A Human Rights Perspective

Ranilo Sorongon leads UNCRPD Orientation

Even with the ratification of the Philippines of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in 2008, persons with disabilities and their advocates are still facing a gigantic task of changing the perspective of Filipinos even persons with disabilities and duty bearers to have a human rights perspective in dealing with persons with disabilities.

To promote the human rights perspective, ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon has been tasked by the Philippine Coalition on the UNCRPD to develop a module on the said topic and lead in giving this lecture in the consultation-workshop on the Implementation and Monitoring of the UNCRPD in the Philippines. The coalition has been doing the consultation in Lipa, Batangas, Zamboanga City, Cagayan de Oro City, Baguio City, Naga City and Metro Manila.

Last June 15, Director Sorongon gave a lecture-workshop on "Disability: A Human Rights Perspective" at the Norfil Training Center in Quezon City participated by more than 25th persons with disabilities, leaders, parents of children with disabilities and social workers coming from the different cities and one municipality of Metro Manila. The lecture was part of the module of the two day consultation-workshop sponsored by the Philippine Coalition.

Director Sorongon also gave this lecture during the conference sponsored by the Catholic Handicap in Paco Catholic School and during ASP orientations to educate its members about this new perspective.

The Philippine Coalition is scheduling the same consultation-workshop exclusively for parents of children with disabilities this August to educate and consult the parents on the implementation of the UNCRPD. Parent leaders coming different organizations all over the country will be giving an opportunity to meet each other share how the government is implementing the convention.

Read more »

Posted in: 4pwas,seminar,uncrpd

Children with Special Needs Education Fund Act of 2012

Senate minority leader Alan Peter Cayetano recently filed Senate Bill 3226 seeking additional government funding for the education of children with special needs. The bill also aims to improve the cooperation between the local government units and the Department of Education in answering the needs of the young and disabled.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano.  Photo credit:  PDI.

Government statistics reveal that 10 to 13 percent of the country's school children suffer from a form of physical, mental, emotional or behavioral disability (as of this writing, it is unclear if this figure includes the autism sector). This statistic is currently not supported by the 1,176 SpEd teachers in 155 special education centers in the public education system -- which only addresses a staggering three percent of students with special needs.

“It is a state obligation to provide special nurturing for the education of children with special needs as they are equally entitled to the same free basic education guaranteed by the Constitution to children under regular school systems,” Cayetano said.

Cayetano further enjoins the private sector to help fund special education programs as part of their corporate social responsibility initiatives.

*****

Do your share in bringing programs which empower families and educators to help the autism sector. Donate to ASP.

Read more »

Posted in: education,government

Deputy Dodgers Book Launch at Summer Komikon 2012

By Tiffany Tan, ASP Correspondent.

Gabriel de Jesus Atienza’s “Deputy Dodgers: The Ulstran Saga” was launched at the Summer Komikon 2012 at the Bayanihan Convention Center, Unilab Compound, Mandaluyong City last 26 May 2012.

PWA Gabriel Atienza in Deputy Dodgers book launch

Komikon, short for Philippine Komiks Convention, is an annual event promoting the awareness and reading of past and present comics made by Filipino artists. The event showcases recent graphic novels made by local comic creators, using various styles of drawing encompassing numerous genres.

Author Gabby Atienza, who describes himself as a middle-aged autistic, worked almost three years with digital artists and other experts in graphic arts to streamline this much awaited limited edition, hard-bound and 300 pager graphic novel.

"Deputy Dodgers: The Ulstran Saga" is reminiscent of Japanese anime characters from Voltes V, Mazinger Z and Daimos characters from the ‘80s, to which he credits to his own fantasy world. The book is Gabby’s fantasy world of science fiction, action and comedy all rolled into one.

Grab your copy of "Deputy Dogders: The Ulstran Saga” together with Gabby’s biography “My Life as a Comic Book”. Contact Gabby Atienza at (0916) 316-2650.

*****

More stories on the amazing Gabby Atienza: Aspie’s Comic Book Life, Gabby’s Comic book launch in 2009, and Blessed Singleness.

Read more »

Posted in: pers

ASP Cavite is all set for NDPR Week!

ASP Cavite Chapter Leaders with ASP National President Jan Peña

visits Cavite Gov. JonVic Remulla.

The Cavite Chapters of the Autism Society of the Philippines, with the support of Hon. Gov. Jonvic Remulla, is poised to salute persons with disabilities as the country celebrates the 34th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitaton (NPDR) Week this 17-23 July 2012 with the theme "Mainstreaming PWDs in Economic Development".

On July 16, Monday at 1-5pm, the festivities kick off with the 2012 Cavite Special Mini-Olympics at The Events Center in SM City Dasmariñas. Watch the Parade & Search for Mr. & Ms. NDPR Cavite 2012 and a much-awaited Creative Gymnastics Competition, open for a group of ten+,

On July 18, Wednesday at 1-5pm, The Events Center of SM Center Molino will host a Poster-Making Contest, open to groups of three.

On July 23, Monday at 1-5pm, The Events Center in SM City Bacoor will be the site of "Espesyal Kami: isang malikhaing sabayang-bigkas". This is open for a group of ten+.

On July 25, Wednesday at 6:30am-5pm, Developmental Games and SM-O Junior Games will be held at the Animo Center, De La Salle Health Sciences Institute, Dasmariñas City --with the event theme "Isabuhay ang kakayanan ng mga Kabitenyong PWDs!-- which is conducted in partnership with the university's Neurodevelopmental Center. (Height: Dev'l Games - below 4 ft./Junior Games - below 5ft).

On July 28, Saturday at 6:30am-5pm, special indivudals are welcomed at the St. Francis School, Malabon, General Trias, Cavite for the SM-O Sports and Games Senior Events.

On July 30, Monday at 1:00pm-5pm, awarding of ceremonies at The Events Center, SM City Rosario with the event theme: Ipagbunyi ang mga kakayanan ng Kabitenyong PWDs!

For inquiries on this event, please text or call SM-O Chairpersons Hilda Fajardo (0928.500.2807) in Tanza; or Lyn Ebuña (0928-425-6909) in Trece Martires City.

Read more »

Posted in: community,regional,special

Autism-friendly Technology

By Dang U. Koe, ASP Chairman Emeritus.

Many parenting experts have long spoken of the ills of exposing children to too much electronic visual stimuli — like television and computers. But progressive education proponents are also challenging today’s parents to open their minds to the possibility that the next generation will face a school environment very different from ours. The learning environment of the future will be enriched with integrated photos and video teaching aides, instant access to latest research and interaction across vast distances.

Mona Magno-Veluz (@mightymagulang), ASP National Secretary, returns as this week’s Angel Talker.

*****

The unique challenges of individuals in the autism spectrum have given software and platform developers an opportunity to use technology to address the difficulties our ASD learners face.

Mobile Apps. A quick visit to the Apple App Store or the Android marketplace will give you many free and paid options for applications that can help a child with autism. Aside from picture-text apps that help language learning, the online application market is packed with student and teacher tools for behavior-tracking, conversation coaching, social stories development, listening therapy, observation recording, among others. Autism Speaks maintains a recommendations page on learner-tested applications.

Motion-controlled Gadgets. Games and learning software which responds to movement has been made possible by Ninendo Wii, Playstation Move and Microsoft Xbox Kinect. Many therapy centers all over the world have begun using these game platforms as tools in motor skills development for children on the spectrum.

A team of students from De La Salle-College of St. Benilde recently bagged first place in the Microsoft Philippines’ Imagine Cup 2012 for their software development project, KidCAMP, a Kinect-driven web and mobile application developed for PWA learners that provides communications and teaching tools, assists teachers in creating learning materials, and monitors student performance.

Mark Christian Bautista of the College of St. Benilde guides ASP self-advocate Carl Veluz in an excercise using
Kinect motion sensors in a recent demo of Pinoy-made KidCAMP at the Microsoft office in Makati

Digital Talking Books. The Autism Society Philippines, in cooperation with AusAid, is set to develop a series of DAISY (Digital Accessible Information System) digital talking books intended to teach children their human rights as individuals with disabilities, proclaimed by the United Nations. The project will feature social stories and will be illustrated by graphic designer Gabriel Atienza, a person with Asperger Syndrome.

Social Media. Setting aside the global debate on how much social media children should be exposed to, the various online platforms like Facebook and YouTube, have provided individuals with autism a medium to communicate with the outside world from the comfort of familiar surroundings.

Budding entrepreneurs, like PWA Carl Veluz, uses Facebook to talk to friends as well as gain orders for his gift-item business. PWA performers like Tumtum Mendoza, the ASP Dreamgirls and the Sparkle Band have used YouTube as a means to inspire and to show the world what talent and hard work can accomplish. Critical to the mix, of course, is a guiding hand to keep sensitive personal information away from the general public.

All these software, web platforms and gadgetry are far from being the all-encompassing answer to the difficulties faced by individuals with autism. But they are undeniably becoming powerful tools that can help our children navigate what will be a technology-driven future.

*****

The Autism Society Philippines is embracing the call of digital technology! Aside from reading our blog, get updated on Facebook and Twitter (@autismphils), watch our YouTube channel, shop at our Multiply Store; and very soon, interact with us via an Internet radio program. If you have questions, talk to me on Twitter @dangkoe.

*****

This article appeared in the print and online versions of the Manila Bulletin on 02 July 2012.

Read more »

Posted in: angels-talk

ILLC's Sensory Integration Seminar in Davao

The Independent Living Learning Centre (ILLC) Davao invites you to attend a Seminar on Sensory Integration: A Practical Approach for Parents, Teachers and Students on 14 July 2012, Saturday. We have invited Professor Abelardo Apollo “Archie” I. David, Jr., MOccThy, OTRP, one of the leading Occupational Therapists in the country, to be our Resource Speaker.

Professor Abelardo Apollo “Archie” I. David, Jr., MOccThy, OTRP

This seminar is also for family members of children/adults with special needs, SPED teachers, therapists, college students and other individuals working closely with persons with disabilities.

For inquiries, contact Jane Anne S. Gonzales, ILLC Davao Directress at (0917) 705-5075.

Read more »

Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4public,4pwas,4siblings,seminar