Wanted: Photographs for Autism Gallery

The ASP has been invited to participate in the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability’s (APCD) initiative to promote awareness of emerging disability sub groups like autism and intellectual disability. APCD dedicated a photo gallery section in its Empowerment Café website for this purpose, where viewers can gleam regional best practices and personal inspiration.

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) chapters are invited to send pictures of its activities; while individual members may send pictures of their child engaged with their siblings, parents and service providers in different settings like in school, home, therapy center, park, cinema, among others. Images must observe good photography composition and lighting; and must not be "Photoshopped" to include text, logos or watermarks.

Sample photo: The EDEIP Orientation

Pictures for exhibition must be sent to the ASP National Office at autismphils@gmail.com with a brief description (maximum seven (7) words) and a note authorizing ASP to add an ASP watermark and to include the image in the APCD E-Cafe Photo Gallery.

All images submitted will only be used for this purpose. It will be published with attribution. It will not be edited or used for commercial purposes.

The E Café photo gallery can be viewed starting September 1, 2012 by logging to http://disability-ecafe.net/.

The APCD Empowerment Café or E-Cafe is a platform that promotes information dissemination and knowledge exchange on disability and development in Asia and the Pacific from the perspective of the sub-regions Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, Pacific and East Asia. ASP is one of the “baristas” or writer representing the ASEAN Autism Network (AAN) at the E-Café.

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Posted in: international,intl,leaders

ASP Laguna Chapter Seminar entitled "Fundamentals in the Care and Management of Children with Autism"

Laguna Chapter

This seminar is recommended for parents, family members, caregivers and professionals to help understand autism and children with autism and learn basic strategies in dealing with inappropriate behaviors and early programs for young children with autism.

ASP Laguna logo

Date: September 22, 2012 (Saturday)
Time: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Venue: Hope Intervention Center
Villa Remedios Subd., Halang, Calamba City

Registration Fees (inclusive of simple snacks and lunch, handout and certificate)

Pre-registration until September 14 (Friday)
ASP Member - (bring valid ID) Php 800.00
Non-ASP Member - Php 1,000.00

After September 14 onwards
ASP Member - (bring valid ID) Php 1,000.00
Non-ASP Member - Php 1,200.00

Only 35 slots are available. Register early.

Two (2) ways for Pre-Registration:
1. You may pay at the Autism Resource Center, ASP Laguna Chapter at Intan St., Sta. Fe Subd., Los Baños, Laguna
2. Or make a bank deposit. Contact us and we will send you our bank details.
Contact details: 049-536-0655; 0939-240-5970 (office hours only).

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,seminar

5th Regional Conference on Autism: Hope in Our Community

In the spirit of the 12th National Conference and 2nd Southeast Asian Conference on Autism held on 28-29 April 2012 at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Autism Society Philippines Cavite Chapters, in partnership with the Municipal Government of Carmona, Cavite, will be holding the 5th Regional Conference on Autism on 8-9 September 2012 at the San Lazaro Business and Leisure Park in Carmona, Cavite.

With the theme “Living with Autism: HOPE@HOME,” the conference brings to South Luzon topics and discussions that shall aim to enrich parents, professionals, students, and government officials with knowledge and skills in helping people with autism become fully functional members of our community.

Experts have been invited to share their knowledge and exemplary achievements on the field of rehabilitation, particularly in the local community setting.

Keynote

HOME Base: Getting Started
By: Mr. Abelardo Apollo I. David Jr.

Jumpstart your first day on the conference with a keynote speech delivered by one of the leading occupational therapists in the country today.

About the Speaker

Mr. Archie David

Mr. Abelardo Apollo I. David, or Sir Archie as he is usually referred to, is the Head Occupational Therapist and Executive Director of Quality Life Discoveries; and the Independent Living and Learning Center. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy at the College of Allied Medical Professions at the University of the Philippines, and obtained his master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at the University of Queensland, Australia. He has become a resource speaker in multiple seminars and events aimed at families, professionals, students, and people with special needs.

HOPE@LAST! Government on the Move and Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR): How Do You Do It?
By: Dr. Dahlia A. Loyola

These topics are the most popular topics discussed in the 12th National Conference. The first topic will discuss on what the government is doing to help Persons with Disability (PWD) become functional members of our society, using the series of programs of the Municipality of Carmona as an example. It will also showcase the numerous achievements that the local government units have made for the welfare of PWDs, including people with autism (PWA). The second topic will discuss basics on Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) and how it is practiced and applied in the local setting. During the conference, guests will also have the opportunity to visit the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) and witness firsthand what the local government has accomplished in the field of PWD support.

About the Speaker

Dr. Dahlia Loyola

Dr. Dahlia A. Loyola is the mayor of Carmona, Cavite since 2004. Under her administration, the town has received multiple awards recognizing excellence in public service, namely: 2011 Most Business-Friendly LGU Municipal Category, the “Gawad Pamana ng Lahi” (Regional Award given by DILG), the Hall of Fame Award for Excellence in External Quality (Department of Health), 4th Place for the Performance and Delivery of Civil Registration Services, and the Liberal Project Award for programs and services to empower PWDs of Carmona, Cavite. It was also under her administration that the PWD sector has been recognized and has set an example on how Community-Based Rehabilitation can help PWDs be functioning members of society.

Managing Autism through HOME-Based Intervention: Guide to Families and CBR Workers
By: Dr. Ma. Cecilia R. Licuan

This topic will focus on dealing with autism in the setting of the local community, specifically the family and the local government. Being the basic unit of society that PWAs are first oriented to, families can benefit from this topic by knowing more on how to manage the condition through proper intervention. It serves as additional reference to practitioners of CBR, focusing on PWAs and the ways on how to help them.

About the Speaker

Dr. Ma Cecilia R. Licuran

Dr. Ma. Cecilia R. Licuan, a Registered Physical Therapist, is the Dean of the College of Rehabilitation Sciences at De La Salle Health Sciences Institute (DLSHSI). She is also an accreditor for the Physical Therapy Program at the Philippine Association for Accreditation of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU), as well as a resource person for the National Council for Disability Affairs. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy at DLSHSI in 1997; earned her master’s degree in Education, majoring in Education Management, at DLSU-Dasmariñas in 2001; and earned her PhD in Special Education at UP Diliman in 2007.

*****

For more information and inquiries on the 5th Regional Conference, please contact Ms. Chie Marquez of ASP Bacoor at 0917-540-6727. For LGUs, please contact Ms. Jan Peña at 0920-824-7636.

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

5th Regional Conference on Autism: HOME along the Spectrum: Pains and Gains

Being a parent entails a lot of responsibilities. Being a parent of a child with autism takes on yet another dimension. Join us as parents of persons with autism (PWA) relate their travels, travails, and triumphs, as well as their pains and their gains, in rearing their children.

In the spirit of the 12th National Conference and 2nd Southeast Asian Conference on Autism held on 28-29 April 2012 at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, the Autism Society Philippines Cavite Chapters, in partnership with the Municipal Government of Carmona, Cavite, will be holding the 5th Regional Conference on Autism, themed “Living with Autism: HOPE@HOME,” on 8-9 September 2012 at the San Lazaro Business and Leisure Park in Carmona, Cavite. The conference brings to South Luzon topics and discussions that aim to enrich parents, professionals, students, and government officials with knowledge and skills in helping people with autism become fully functional members of our community.

Moderator

Erlinda Uy-Koe

Ms. Dang Koe

Ms. Koe, better known as Mommy Dang, is the Chair Emeritus of Autism Society Philippines. She holds a bachelor's degree in Communication Arts at the University of Santo Tomas and a master's degree in Communication Arts at UP Diliman. She is currently the Vice President for Enterprise Core Services at Armadillo Holdings, Inc. Her write-ups can be seen in a column of Manila Bulletin’s Education section titled “Angels’ Talk.” For her works and achievements in autism advocacy, she received UST’s 2009 The Outstanding Thomasian Alumni Award for Humanitarian Service. She is a mother of three, including Gio, 18 her eldest son, who is on the autism spectrum.

Panelists

Dr. Ma. Luisa Campos-Cagingin

Doc Malu with son Chico

Dr. Cagingin, known as Doc Malu, is the President of ASP Dasmariñas Chapter, and the Director of Sta. Belina Learning Center, Dasmariñas, Cavite. She earned her undergraduate degree at UP Diliman and received her Doctorate in Medicine at De La Salle Health Sciences Institute. She also is the author of “Mama…Yes, Anak?” a book that highlights her and her family’s journeys, being a mother to a 26-year-old adult with autism, Chico.

Catherine Lopez

Ms. Catherine Lopez

Ms. Lopez, better known as Mommy Cathy, is the Vice President of ASP Laguna Chapter and a Job Coach at the Autism Resource Center in Laguna. She obtained her bachelor's degree in Chemical Technology at TUP Visayas, but started becoming a hands-on mom since 1994 and a freelance tutor to children with special needs. She is an active team member of ASP Laguna in conducting training for parents, teachers, professionals, and caregivers, as well as being the Siblings Workshop Coordinator of ASP Laguna since 2009. She is a mother to 20-year-old person with autism and self-advocate Ian.

Evert Malapad

Daddy Evert with daughter Maemae

Mr. Malapad, or Daddy Evert, is the President of ASP Metro South Chapter. He is a bachelor's degree holder in Industrial Management, but also obtained his Secondary Education degree and his master's degree in Education major in Special Education at UPHDS Las Piñas. His journey with his daughter with autism, Mae-Mae, 17, has led him to be more involved in the adult program for individuals with special needs.

Adeluisa Martinez

Mommy Adel with son JR

Ms. Martinez, or Mommy Adel, is a faculty member of the Teacher Education Department (SPED Major) at Sacred Heart College, and is also a Special Education teacher at Harvest of Hope Foundation in Lucena City. She is a graduate of BS Commerce major in Accounting, with units in Education, and has master's units in Special Education. She conducts training for parents, teachers, students, LGUs, companies, and NGOs in Lucena and other communities in Quezon. She is a mother to a young adult with autism and a budding teacher, JR, 20.

Elizabeth Udquin

Mommy Beth with sons Cholo and Tristan

Ms. Udquin, or Mommy Beth, is a member of Autism Society Philippines' Board of Trustees, and the President of ASP UP CAMP Chapter. She has a bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology, and has worked as administrative staff and part-time faculty at EARN Computer School. Currently, she is a full-time mom engaging in the buy-and-sell business with her two boys on the spectrum, Cholo, 7, and Tristan, 5. She has been active in autism advocacy since 2010.

*****

For more information and inquiries on the 5th Regional Conference, please contact Ms. Chie Marquez of ASP Bacoor at 0917-540-6727. For LGUs, please contact Ms. Jan Peña at 0920-824-7636.

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

Adulthood and livelihood for persons with autism

By Dang U. Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus

Time to create Jobs for Persons on the Autism Spectrum

Parents dream of bigger and better things for their children. We raise them the best way we know how, send them to the best schools our resources can afford, and trust that this is enough to make them good, upstanding, successful adults.

This hope takes on a different dimension for parents of children and teenagers on the spectrum.

Mona Veluz (@mightymagulang on Twitter) returns as this week's Angel Talker.

***

"What do you want to be when you grow up?"

The answer to this question is one which autism parents are more invested in. Parents of children with autism tend to be forward-thinking out of necessity. We are advised very early that we should take a different perspective on education. We are advised that learning and integration is more valuable than getting a diploma. We are advised that it is imperative that we expose and train our children in viable life skills which can bring them a vocation or livelihood in the future.

Finding our niche

Of the small percentage of individuals on the spectrum who finish high school and/or college, an even smaller percentage end up with jobs. An even smaller percentage find an enduring vocation.

Here are some learnings we can share from the success of ASP institutional member, such as the Autism Learning Center in Laguna which provides training and livelihood for many PWAs in the community. Here are tips to help your children prepare (no matter their current age) for making the work transition.

1. Help them find a passion. Children with autism have unique skills which need to be identified and honed. Gabby Atienza, an adult with autism, took his passion for comic books and drawing and created a career as a graphic designer.

2. Find the right institution for skills building. Whether it is your school or your church or barangay, it is important for an individual with autism to learn livelihood skills. Knowledge of the child's strengths and interests will help define what career or business path he can take. Beth Uduquin, President of ASP UP-CAMP has taken it upon herself to teach her two boys on the spectrum salesmanship using a mobile store that sells items door-to-door in their community. She felt it important to coach her children in skills which may come in handy later in life.

3. Find a compassionate work place. It is important for an individual with autism to learn work appropriate behavior. Find a small organization where he can intern and learn new skills, as well as make new friends. The ASP National Office has very recently launched an Internship Program in partnership with learning institutions. The society hopes to inspire more businesses to follow suit by allowing persons with autism to get work experience in an work place understanding of their strengths and limitations.

4. Look into entrepreneurship. Parents can guide individuals with autism on the production of a food items and novelties and sell them on-line. Retail sales via Multiply and Facebook are at an all-time high. Interacting on-line may be easier for individuals on the spectrum. Gregarious Gifts of Carl Veluz displays a range of products on its Facebook page -- and would only produce goods by order. His overhead is low; but his pride from earning is immeasurable. Parent guidance on proper internet usage and on money management is imperative.

We need MORE

Institutions in the Philippines have only begun to open job readiness programs in support of an aging population of individuals with autism. Employment, financial independence, sexuality, crime, mortality -- are only a few topics which we are only beginning to explore. This situation is not unique to our country. In fact, the current global experience tells us that services and opportunities are lacking to address issues of adults with autism worldwide.

Our sector needs the help of the private sector to open more opportunities for employment for individuals with autism. Beyond a corporate social responsibility effort, businesses need to provide an inclusive workplace for growing population of atypical individuals.

Businesses should be encouraged to hire individuals with autism, especially if the skills they need are a good match for workers on the spectrum. Businesses should be made aware of the incentives the government provides to those who hire PWDs.

Regional autism advocacy groups, over the last year, have been looking into the establishment of micro-lending programs for the benefit of individuals with autism who would like to begin a small business. Still, the programs are in infancy and a sustainable model has yet to be designed.

Bottom line, we need more stakeholders in the challenge of providing employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for individuals on the spectrum. If you have something to contribute, please join the discussion at ASP's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/autismsocietyphilippines.

The 5th Regional Conference on Autism will be held at San Lazaro Business and Leisure Park in Carmona Cavite on Sept 8-9, 2012. For details, please visit ASP at Facebook or autismsocietyphilippines.org

This article is published by Manila Bulletin on 27 August 2012

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Posted in: 4pwas,angels-talk

A Different World

By Ranil Sorongon, ASP Executive Director

Last August 7 and 8, I had the opportunity to join the delegates from Samoa, Solomon Islands, Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Tuvalu and Bangladesh for a visit to the different centers and institutions that provide services to children with autism and other disabilities in Perth, Western Australia.

Mr. Ranilo Sorongon with volunteers

We were fetched from our hotel by Ms. Dawn, a volunteer of the Early Childhood Intervention Council of Perth and was brought to Carson Street School at East Victoria Park, a center catering to children with different disabilities like autism, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome -- some with profound disabilities. The Principal welcomed us and Ms. Shona Ballantyne, the Conductive Education Services Coordinator, gave us a short orientation about the school. The team walked us through their classrooms, indoor swimming pool, therapy area, music room and play ground.

While touring around the facilities, I was very observant of the very tidy classrooms, the different equipment, toys and other materials used by the teachers and manipulated by the students. I was struck seeing a child with profound disability lying on the floor but still part of the class. It was a truly inclusive scenario!

I can’t help but compare the situation of the private and public schools in the Philippines. It made me feel sad and envious thinking that Filipino children with disabilities would very likely develop and learn more if we had those equipment, toys and facilities.

After the school visit, we went to the Western Australian Disability Commission (WADC) where we met the other delegates coming from the different countries of Asia Pacific. We were welcomed by the Early Childhood Intervention Australia headed by Ms. Denise Luscombe, the National President. The WADC is like our National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) and is in charge of the affairs of persons with disabilities within Australia.

On the second day, our group went to Heathridge Primary School, Accelerated Learning Center for Autism. We were welcomed by the center executive director, Ms. Patricia, who gave us an orientation and tour of the facilities. She even let us observe an on-going learning session to give us an idea on how they conduct their intervention, based on the principle of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). We were also able to see the children ages around 4 to 6 years old during their play time, when they honed social skills. I was impressed by the children with ASD who initiated interaction with us!

Ms. Pat also shared the curriculum that they been using for the past 14 years and the social script that they develop to teach their children. It was amazing, her passion was incredible!

Later that afternoon, we visited the Sate Child Development Center, a program under the Ministry of Health of Western Australia. We met with the Director, the Community Nurse, the Developmental Pediatrician, the Occupational Therapist, Speech Pathologists, Social Workers and other health professionals who were based there. Our last stop was the office in-charge of the vaccination, not only for children but also with adults. The center provides a holistic free health services for the people of Western Australia especially the children.

Looking back, my two-day visit reminded me of Joey Ayala’s song “Magkabilaan ang Mundo” or “Contrasting World”. The Australian government provides free services to all children, with additional benefits to children with disabilities. Professional services are available and free. Roads, bridges, buildings and footbridges are accessible.

While I love my country very much, I am made aware that services for children with disabilities are so inadequate, sometimes non-existent, in the Philippines. In Solomon Islands, Samoa and Tuvalu, the situation is even worse -- speech therapist and occupational therapists are very difficult to find. Even with the presence of international agreements like the Education for All, the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, these conditions exist and will continue to exist, if governments will not prioritize this marginalized sector. Persons with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities must demand from the duty-bearers, the government, the fulfillment of their basic rights.

Living in Western Australia would be a privilege; but there is still no place like the Philippines, my home. My experiences in Perth posed a challenge to me to further engage government and other stakeholders for a more humane world for all, especially individuals with disabilities.

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Posted in: international

ASP Joins Asia Pacific Workshop

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon, together with Ms. Jennifer Soriano from the Philippine Association of Speech Pathologists (PASP) and the UP College of Allied Medical Professions (UPCAMP), presented the “Challenges of Children with Disabilities in the Philippines” during the workshop held in August 11, 2012 in Perth, Western Australia. The regional wokshop was attended by representatives from Samoa, Solomon Islands, Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Tuvalu and Bangladesh. Mr. Boon Hock Lim, a member of the ASEAN Autism Network representing Malaysia was also present.

The workshop was facilitated by Mr. John Forster, Chief Executive Officer of Noah’s Ark, a non profit organization in Australia which aims to provide information on the challenges faced by children with disabilities and their parents in the different countries of Asia-Pacific.

The event is an initial step for creating a network among the stakeholders in the region for sharing information and resources intended to improve the early intervention services in the region. This task in indeed daunting, considering the distance and diversity of experience between the stakeholder countries; but the group agreed to continue with engineering strategic linkages and encouraging purposeful interaction.

The group would like to extend its gratitude to Ms. Denise Luscombe, the National President of Early Childhood Intervention Australia and Mr. John Forster for spearheading this great initiative.

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Posted in: international,seminar

The ASP Internship Program Kicks Off

The ASP Secretariat gives our new interns and volunteers a warm welcome
during orientation day last August 3, 2012

The Autism Society Philippines, this month, kicks off what it hopes to be a sustainable program for young adults with autism.

The ASP Internship Program is a job readiness initiative, open to institutions who conduct job coaching. ASP provides a safe, compassionate workplace which is the perfect venue for PWAs to gain work experience by assisting in ASP office work -- scanning images and documents, library management and organization of audio-visual assets. The partnership between ASP and the partner institution (resembling an employer-job agency relationship) is critical to providing the intern guidance in work skills and work-appropriate behavior.

Each intern may render a maximum of 40 hours of work, after which he receives a certificate of completion and the corresponding allowance. The work with ASP becomes something he can then include in his resume.

For the first cycle of interns, ASP is partnering with ILLC. Among the interns are Nina Gabrielle B, Cornell S and Martin D. They will be implementing a records digitization project for ASP.

If you are:
1) an institution with the capability to coach in the workplace; or ...
2) an employer who would like to take interns who are PWAs, ...

... please send a letter of introduction to Ranil Sorongon at autismphils@gmail.com; and we would be glad to provide opportunities to as many individuals and institutions as our time, capabilities and resources allow.

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Posted in: community,special

Effective Behavior Modification Strategies for CWA

AUGUST 25 (SATURDAY) SEMINAR – WORKSHOP

“Effective Behavior Modification Strategies for CWA”

9:00 AM-5:00PM

The complexities of autism have been marked by behaviors that have tested every adult’s analytical ability, creativity, perseverance and tenacity to help a child with autism (CWA) cope with and/or adjust well to his surroundings. It is a great achievement for both the CWA and adult once a behavior is properly addressed through the use of behavior modification strategies.

This month’s activity is primarily designed for parents of children with autism, caregivers, special education teachers and other professionals engage in the early intervention of autism to respond to the challenges of autism. The morning session’s lecture will focus on the nature, characteristics and principles of behavior and behavior modification. A short video will also be presented to support the concepts presented.

In the afternoon, the speaker will impart knowledge on how to implement behavior modification strategies to address behaviors common to a CWA. Actual demonstration of some strategies with a CWA will take place as the highlight. Additional videos will be shown to support and to give more emphasis on the subject being tackled. As part of the workshop, an actual case of a CWA shared by a parent-member will be the subject of a group case analysis and presentation.

Ms. Noemi Viado

Noemi T. Viado is currently the Directress of the GS Option House and Learning Center in Biñan, Laguna. She was mentored by Ms. Sue Fischer of the Autistic Children's Association of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, Ms. Viado has dedicated her life in teaching persons with autism (PWAs) for the past 22 years already. She also has been training parents, professionals and caregivers on behavior modification, her area of expertise. As a result of these years of experiences, Ms. Viado has created a program for PWAs from early childhood to adulthood based on behavior modification principles and functional whole life skills approach. Ms. Viado's passion and love for teaching PWAs have been inspired by Gigi, her 26 year old daughter with autism. This inspiration led her to tirelessly serve Autism Society Philippines as Board of Trustee from 2007 to 2011.

Venue: Asian Social Institute, 1518 Leon Guinto Cor Escoda Sts., Malate, Manila

REGISTRATION FEE is inclusive of certificate, handouts and snacks

Seminar-Workshop
Pre-reg. *until Aug. 23
Member - 700.00
Non-Member - 800.00

On-site Registration
Member - 800.00
Non-Member - 1,000.00

For online registration, click here.

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.

Sharing HOPES...Building DREAMS

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,seminar

ASP Laguna Seminar on "Supporting Students with Special Needs in the Regular Classroom"

ASP Laguna Chapter

ASP Laguna logo

The seminar on "Supporting Students with Special Needs in the Regular Classroom" will be on SEPTEMBER 29, 2012, SATURDAY from 8:30am - 4:00pm. Venue will be at Hope Intervention Center, Villa Remedios Subd., Halang, Calamba City. Pre-registration is until September 21, 2012. For inquiries please call Tel. No.: 049-536-0655 (Tuesday - Friday, 8am to 5pm) or Mobile Nos.: (0939) 240-5970 (Tuesday - Friday, 8am to 5pm) (0927) 678-0496 (Tuesday - Friday, 8am to 5pm) or email: asplagunachapter98@gmail.com. Thank you!

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Posted in: 4pros,4public,seminar

Catanduanes celebrates NDPR Week

By Fatima D. Kozma, ASP Virac, Catanduanes Chapter

The National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation week was celebrated all over the country from 17 to 23 July 2012.

ASP Catanduanes kids with autism

Our ASP Chapter based in Virac, Catanduanes coordinated the activities with various PWD institutions, corporate supporters, LGUs and the engaged community. The team is grateful for the help of Mr. John Laynes, brother of the mayor, whose kind generosity made many of the activities possible.

The four-day celebration was made memorable with a motorcade, a Service Mass, a Jollibee treat and Family Day get-together at a local resort. The PWDs from Jmames, Principal Cynthia Soneja, Mrs. Lisa Molod and her staff, the ASP Catanduanes Chapter members, Genevieve Laynes, Leticia Villamucho and Jeniffer Torres, and their families, the helpful staff at the many venues, among many other movers made the week feel like the blessing that it was.

The celebration was a reminder to the people on the island that ASPCC and its partners are active institutions, doing its share in advocating for individuals with autism one day at a time.

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Posted in: ndpr

Where compassion and kindness begin

By DANG U. KOE, ASP Chair Emeritus

Being God-loving is one of the best traits Filipinos should be proud of.

Kindness and Compassion poster

Authors Hanah Joy Gregorio and Khristopher Vincent Defensor in an article in Asian Journal wrote: “The Philippines is one the most religious countries in the world, particularly in Catholicism and Islam. Families would encourage and strengthen the values of their children and would at least have one day a week for worship and at the same time strengthening family ties.”

This holds true for families blessed with children with autism, like most members of Autism Society Philippines. We draw passion and strength to advocate for our children with autism from our personal relationships with God. Thus, it is unfortunate how Catholic Archbishop Socrates Villegas used the word “autistic” in his proxy speech on the RH Bill last August 4.

“I know many of you, my dear youth, do not believe in the Church anymore. You think the Church does not understand. That the church is autistic. May sariling mundo.”

Autism is a neurological condition affecting millions of Filipinos. Individuals with autism have a unique way of processing things they see, hear, feel, taste and smell. “Autistic” is not a joke or an insult equivalent to being unintelligent or indifferent.

We trust Archbishop Villegas will take this opportunity to reflect on his actions, and help champion the needs of the Catholic subset of autism sector from within the Church. We need our Catholic leaders to educate themselves on autism issues and to create long-term “inclusive” programs that will benefit individuals on the spectrum.

IT’S ABOUT TIME FOR THE CHURCH

In March 2011 issue of Angels Talk on “When People with Autism Go to Church”, we gave “bottoms-up” suggestions on how parents, local church leaders and other people can help PWAs in their church integration. It is time for top-down actions from church leaders like Bishop Soc to help minister to their flock of one million Filipino families living with autism. Some suggestions:

1. Autism orientation for priests and parishes. It may include:

Teaching abstract catechism concepts like the Holy Trinity, God, heaven, hell, sin, and others -- all difficult for someone with autism. Dr. Temple Grandin, a celebrated professor of Animal Science, author, speaker, inventor, and one of Time Magazine’s Most Influential People of 2010 shared “I think like Google for images. I have to see pictures in my mind.” As a child taught to say The Lord’s Prayer, she admitted, “I had absolutely no idea what the prayer meant.”

Hearing confession of someone with autism and how to give penance so that they will learn from the exercise. Perhaps even equip priests with communication tools.

Allocation of a special section within the church where PA system does not overly stimulate kids. Perhaps in lieu of mass, establish a Sunday school for kids with learning disabilities.

2. A catechism program for children with learning disabilities. Since most special schools are non-sectarian, they fall through the cracks and do not get to go to First Communion.

3. Establish policy on how to deal with the profoundly autistic. A number of families have experienced their children being ejected out of the church or being rejected for communions. Parents’ cries will surely reach the heavens should their children be considered less Catholic because they cannot take advantage of all sacraments like communion, confession and confirmation.

Parent members of organizations like ASP advocate to create a society where our children with autism can grow up happy, productive and accepted. We labor so that more Filipinos can look at autism, not with outdated perceptions, but with kind, compassionate eyes. We pray we are not mistaken when we presume that such kindness and compassion start from our Church leaders.

*****

The 5th Regional Conference on Autism has been moved to Sept. 8 and 9 at the San Lazaro Business and Leisure Park, Carmona, Cavite. ASP Los Baños Chapter’s seminar on Supporting Students with Special Needs in the Regular Classroom will be held on Aug. 18 in Los Baños, Laguna. For details: autismsocietyphilippines.blogspot.com or follow Autism Society Philippines on Facebook and Twitter.

****

This article appeared in the print and online versions of the Manila Bulletin on 12 August 2012.

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Posted in: 4public,angels-talk

ASP Family Support Group for August 2012

Share your HOPES and DREAMS with us. We will listen.

Sign up now and learn practical tips and how to advocate for your child with autism.

Date: August 18, 2012 Saturday
Time: 1:00 PM-5:00 PM Free Registration
(15 Slots Available)
Venue: ASP Office, Room 307, ML Building, #47 Kamias Road, Quezon City
Call: 7-903-5496 for registration

Evert Malapad with daughter Mae Mae

Our facilitator this month is no other than Mr. Evert L. Malapad, an ASP lifetime member, a former Trustee of ASP National Office and the current president of ASP-Metro South Chapter.

Mr. Malapad is the proud father of Mae-mae, a 17-year-old with autism, and Ella, a 13-year-old high school student.

Daddy Evert has a Master's Degree in Education (major in Special Education). He is currently teaching the adult program for individuals with special needs at Candent Learning Haus in BF Homes, Las Piñas City.

Click here to sign up online on the Family Support Group

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Posted in: 4parents,4siblings,fsg

Alumna talks on autism

Holy Spirit Academy of Malolos

Ms. Josephine Palomares

Diliman Chapter President, Jo Palomares

by: Dra. Maella Karaan, President, Phil. Association of Physicians and School Health Personnel

Josephine Palomares, an alumna of the Immaculata Academy of Malolos, now Holy Spirit Academy of Malolos, talked on autism at the Parents’ Orientation Seminar for the parents of preschool to grade three pupils held last June 23, 2012 at the HSAM.

Ms. Palomares, President of Autism Society Philippines Diliman Chapter, discussed the signs for the early recognition of autism and where to refer children with possible autism for evaluation. She also shared experiences of families of persons with autism.

The HSAM Admininistration and Family Council started this school year the series of seminars on Developmental Parenting to help raise the awareness of parents on certain developmental issues and for the early recognition of deviations from normal development.

Ms. Palomares was the former Josephine Joven, a graduate of Grade school class 1978 and High School class 1982.

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Posted in: 4parents,seminar

PARM M.O.V.E. Manila Run 2012 a success!

“I never even doubted for a minute that God will grant us a fantastic running weather yesterday during the PARM M.O.V.E. Manila Run 2012. Not only did the rains stop, the sun peeked until the end of the program. Absolute faith and collective prayers, with Him, anything is possible”.

Handicap Race

A Facebook message posted by Ms. Lei Asuque, program manager of PARM a day after the PARM M.O.V.E Manila Run 2012 that took place last July 22, Sunday at the Quezon Memorial Circle ,Quezon City, reflected the energy and excitement that marked the event.

More than 2,000 participants coming from the different local government units, colleges and universities, organizations of persons with disabilities, government agencies and supporters enjoyed the cool weather, despite the threat of rainfall.

ASP was represented by Executive Director Ranil Sorongon and members of Autism Society Philippines Quezon City chapters.

The annual event is a revenue generating active of the Philippine Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine (PARM) to raise funds for the rehabilitation and wellness needs of indigent Filipino PWDs.

Congratulations PARM and more power! Watch out for the “Run for Autism” in January 2013 as part of the Autism Consciousness Week!

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Posted in: community,special

Autism Parenting: You are not alone

By Cricel B. Elises, ASP Program Assistant

“A mother’s love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity. It dares all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path.” - Agatha Christie

Motherhood brings the most intense experiences in a woman's life. A mother will do everything for the welfare of her children. A mother’s love sees no boundaries.

Such is the love of five mothers to their child with autism who braved pouring rain and strong winds to attend our Family Support Group last 21 July 2012. ASP National Auditor, Mary Grace Adviento, herself a strong, dedicated mother, welcomed our family support group attendees. The ASP office team, Ranil Sorongon, Melanie Casalme, Abegail Mendoza, Catherine Genovia and Cricel Elises also joined in support.

Grace Adviento leads Family Support Group

Ms. Adviento introduced ASP and began the discussion by sharing her own experiences as a mother to a child with autism. Each parent shared also their unique journey as a mother on the spectrum. After the round-table, Ms. Adviento culminated the session by letting them ask questions to gain insight and clarity.

Below are some of their realizations:

“I am not alone! It feels good to be around people who feel the same way I do and is travelling the road I am into. I still have so much to learn. Listening to other people is knowledge!”

“Joining a society like ASP is important to a family who has a member who is suffering from autism. It made me realized that you were not alone encountering difficult problem. Sharing how you survived those difficult times is priceless.”

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Posted in: fsg

Marikeños Meet Alyana

By Amaris Cabason, ASP Marikina Valley Chapter.

ASP Marikina Valley Chapter's first film showing activity last July 14, 2012 at Teatro Marikina featured "Alyana—A Study of Autism in the Philippines", a film by independent filmmaker Mirana Medina. The fair city of Marikina welcomed the masterpiece which had already been shown around the Philippines by various ASP chapters, since it was first released in 2008.

ASP Marikina group in Alyana

The valuable guidance and support of Miranda Medina, the City Government of Marikina, educational institutions in Marikina, Antipolo, Cainta, Pasig, and nearby municipalities were instrumental in the successful showing of this film -- which intended to increase autism awareness and acceptance within a broad audience.

Commissioner Cipriano Fampulme of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor welcomed the viewers before the film began. The screening had a brief intermission to allow Mayor Del de Guzman of Marikina to address the 400-strong audience. He spoke about ASP and the City Government’s continuous cooperation in the past years, and expressed his support for future activities of the chapter.

In a private moment with the Chapter President Alex Cabason, Mayor de Guzman also discussed possible activities which would help the chapter identify and create programs for persons with disabilities, with the help of the City Social Welfare Department and the Baranggay Health Workers.

An open forum where the audience was allowed to ask questions followed the film showing. The panel consisted of Dr. Rita Villadolid, a Developmental Pediatrician from St. Victoria Hospital; Ms. Joanne Jeanne Coronado, Speech Pathologist and administrator of Milestones Therapy Center; Ms. Camilla Jean Belleza-Caaol, an Occupational Therapist; and Ms. Menchie Dailo, a Special Education teacher of MTC. Most questions came from parents and, being medical in nature, were addressed to Dr. Villadolid, who was able to answer each one to everyone’s satisfaction.

ASP Marikina’s first film showing was a definite success. Many parents and professionals signed up for the Family Support Group meeting that the Chapter scheduled for August 18. A few registered for membership in ASP Marikina, and would hopefully help ensure that more activities such as this would continue to spread awareness and education about autism.

Congratulations! And more power to ASP Marikina!

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Posted in: community,regional,special

Towards a world of kindness and compassion

A Statement from the ASP Board of Trustees.

Autism is a neurological condition affecting millions of Filipinos. Individuals with autism have a unique way of processing things they see, hear, feel, taste and smell. "Autistic" is not a joke or an insult synonymous to being unintelligent or indifferent.

Kindness and Compassion poster

The use of the word "autistic" in Archbishop Soc Villegas' speech is unfortunate -- especially since many in our membership are among those who draw passion and strength to advocate for our children with autism, from personal relationships with God. We trust Archbishop Villegas will take this opportunity to reflect on his actions. We are writing a letter to Fr. Soc to assess how, moving forward, he can help champion the needs of the Catholic subset of our membership from within the Church.

The Autism Society Philippines takes this incident as yet another glaring reason why our sector should strive harder for public autism awareness, education and acceptance.

Our organization advocates to create a society where our children can grow up happy, productive and accepted. We labour so that more Filipinos can look at autism, not with outdated perceptions, but with kind, compassionate eyes.

We need no apologies, no speeches, no rhetorics.

We need our church, school, business and government leaders to educate themselves on autism issues and to create long-term "inclusive" programs that will benefit individuals on the spectrum.

We need public figures who are silent about autism in their families, in fear of the social stigma, to speak up and join our campaign to stop the commonplace indignities and make life better for Filipino individuals and families who live with autism.

To the passionate ASP members and the caring multitudes who have reached out to us in support of this vision, maraming salamat po!

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Posted in: leaders,pers

ASP leads RA 9442 education for the disability sector

True to its mission to promote awareness and acceptance of autism and advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs), the Autism Society Philippines gave two separate lectures on Understanding Autism and Republic Act (RA) 9442 last July 19 and 20, 2012, in celebration of the 34th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week.

Participants of LGU Orientation

The lectures were done in partnership with the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Cainta, Rizal headed by Mayor Mon Ilagan and San Juan City Mayor Guia Gomez, and facilitated by their respective PWD Focal Persons, Analee Lacampuenga (Cainta) and Rocel Camagos (San Juan).

The activity in Cainta was attended by more than 50 parents of children with autism and other disabilities as well as special education teachers of the municipality with Ms. De Guzman, the Municipal Welfare and Development Office and Ms. Ilagan, the First Lady of Cainta as special guests. Ms. Ilagan affirmed the Mayor’s support for the welfare of children with disabilities.

In San Juan City, the participants were parent beneficiaries of the Conditional Cash Transfer Program of the government, parents of children with disabilities and persons with disabilities.

The participants were so grateful to acquire new knowledge on autism for them to understand and be more compassionate of families affected with the condition. They were also grateful to know the benefits and the rights of PWDs as provided by the law. “Now that I know the law, I can ask for the discounts that my child is entitled to, and I can also demand that the rights of my child be respected." said a mother.

Those who are interested to conduct a lecture on autism and RA 9442 may contact ASP National Office at 7-903-5496 or email at autismphils@gmail.com.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pwas,4siblings,education,government,ndpr,seminar

ASP appointed member of APCD Empowerment Café

The ASP will be an official "barista" of the E-Café of Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) based in Bangkok, Thailand, effective August 1, 2012. The team was appointed on July 12, 2012 at the APCD-JICA Consultation-Workshop.

APCD People

The APCD Empowerment Café or E-Cafe is a platform that promotes information dissemination and knowledge exchange on disability and development in Asia and the Pacific from the perspective of the sub-regions Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, Pacific and East Asia.

There are currently seven baristas, Ms. Lyazzat of Kazakstan, Mr. Rahim of Malaysia, Ms. Natagamon of APCD, Ms. Yoshimi of APCD, Mr. Akram, Mr. Atif and Mr. Ghulam (Chief Barista) of Pakistan. Baristas are persons in charge of writing and gathering news and information to be posted in the E-Café.

With its re-launching, the E-Café will be reformatted to include autism and other intellectual disabilities. The group appointed Executive Director Ranil Sorongon of Autism Society Philippines and Ms. Phacharin of the Group of Persons with Intellectual Disability in the Mekong Region as new baristas. The two emerging disability sub-groups are perceived to be under represented in the empowerment movement.

The platform will be the launch pad for promoting the 3rd Asia-Pacific Decade of Persons with Disabilities from 2013 to 2022. Existing sections like the Barista Pick up, the Latest News, the Popular Contents, the E-Café TV, E-Café Poll will be joined by the new E-Café Photo Gallery, and supplemented by social media like Facebook and Twitter.

With the re-launching of the E-Café, we are hopeful that it will engage stakeholders in the region in meaningful interactions that benefit persons with disabilities in Asia-Pacific. Let our voices be heard!

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Posted in: international

Library Corner for PWD's, SPED Students Opened

The Quezon City Public Library (QCPL) has provided a spacious corner for persons with disability (PWDs) and special education (SPED) students to give them equal opportunity to benefit from the services that able citizens enjoy at the library.

The QCPL has made available at the PWD-SPED corner an array of reading and reference materials that will encourage the physically and mentally challenged students to visit the library and avail themselves of the needed services for their studies.

Quezon City Public Library

According to Ms. Emilita Villanueva, QCPL chief, the PWDs and SPED students have the right to enjoy the same privilege that able individuals receive from the city government regardless of whatever disabilities that are a challenge to their capabilities as persons.

Villanueva is positive that the QCPL's space for PWDs will help the hard-to-move citizens to strive more for their dreams and be more productive and active players in the city-building efforts of the QC government.

The QCPL offers computer tutorial lessons for students with hearing impairment to provide them with knowledge on how to easily connect with the outside world through internet. The library personnel also conduct storytelling sessions for PWDs and SPED students to make learning more fun.

Recently, QCPL tied up with the National Council on Disability Affairs by signing in a memorandum of agreement that seeks to enhance the QCPL's capability to provide more services to the PWDs.

This article appeared in the Quezon City Web Mail.

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Posted in: best,community,government,special

Vocation Readiness and Job Coaching takes the fore in ASP trainings

By Cricel Elises, ASP Admin Assistant

The ASP National conducted back-to-back seminars on “Vocational Training for Persons with Autism” and “ABCs of Job Coaching” last 28 July 2012 at Quality Life Discoveries, Murphy Cubao Quezon City. Ms. Evelyn O. Go, ASP National Treasurer and Mr. Fortunato R. Agbayani, ASP Board of Trustee came to support the participants.

Our speaker Ms. Maria Yolanda Michelle A. Bautista, known to many as 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. Teacher Landa is a staunch advocate of individuals with special needs and is a recognized expert in special education and childhood development. She lectures and writes professional recommendations through her “Dear Teacher Landa” blog.

Teacher Landa Bautista leads Vocation Readiness and Job Coaching seminar

Vocational training for persons with autism

The participants were tooled with basic knowledge on vocational training for person with autism by presenting vocational skills & transition training concepts, principles, & best practices.

Teacher Landa discussed the use of the structured teaching principle based on the acclaimed TEACCH approach. She presented models of vocational preparation and its components, shared experiences from vocational skills training and life skills training programs and tackle work transition concerns like anxiety and social interaction.

According to the attendees:
- “The speaker is excellent”
- “The subject matter is relevant to our needs. It helps our vocational program improve our way of giving vocational activities on the student and to improve collaborations of therapy”.

ABCs of Job Coaching

Teacher Landa discussed the concepts, practices and principles of Job Coaching in the afternoon session. She shared guidelines & tips and clarified roles and responsibilities of coaches in the workplace.

Teacher Landa stressed that work is more than just a livelihood or paycheck; it is the key to a satisfying and productive life. For many on the autism spectrum, it is the glue that keeps lives together in an otherwise frustrating and confusing world.

The Job Coach was defined as a para-professional and or professional staff responsible for teaching job skills and associated behaviors, to students and adults with disabilities. These individuals were advised to live by these simple fundamental ABCs:

- A is for awareness to explore all of the possible networks -- from family, friends, schools and the community.

- B is for bridging the gap from the school to the job site. The Job Coach needs to educate the company, talk to the manager or person in charge. It is important to orient the company’s personnel by giving seminars and orientation.

- C is for customize and strategize. Job coaches are expected to analyze the job task, provide structured and incidental instruction. Job coaches are expected to handle all aspects of job place preparation -- from exploring possible job sites to preparing the OJT, from preparing the company by giving information of their students to providing on-the-job evaluation for the OJT and his family.

Below are feedback from the attendees:
- “The speaker delivers the subject matter clearly.”
- “The subject matter is relevant to my needs as a teacher”.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,seminar