ASP Family Support Group for October 2012

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

“To my sons, I am a mommy 24/7. After school, I become a therapist and a teacher to my children. During break time, I become a playmate to them. When they fight, I become their referee. For their biomedical needs, I become a researcher. When they are in trouble, I become their guidance counselor. When they are hungry, I become a chef. I have evolved into different people because of them”.

Ms. Gina Bermudo with son Nico

This month’s facilitator is Ms. Gina Luna Bermudo. A producer and composer of the CD entitled, “Mga Awiting Alay sa Autismo,” a compilation of heartfelt compositions inspired by her two boys on the spectrum, Niko (17) and Xandi (14).” Kaya Ko Rin” was made into MTV for the 10th National Conference on Autism. The Song “Why God,” is an often requested song for ASP events. Her CD was also mentioned/featured in Forum Asia Magazine of LA, California USA. She also composed the theme song of the recent 12th National Conference and 2nd Southeast Asian conference on Autism entitled “Hope @ Home”. Her latest single “1Pangako” is the campaign song for the advocacy of Autism Society Philippines to stop the usage of the word autistic as a slur. Gina is a former international flight attendant and she recently served as a resource person for Cebu Pacific Air in its effort to improve its service for PWD with focus on Autism. She serves as ASP Trustee from 2010 to present. Her favorite role is a full-time mommy to the boys and a devoted wife to Lito.

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

FREE REGISTRATION

Date: October 13, 2012, Saturday

Time: 1:00-5:00PM

Venue: ASP Office, Room 307,

ML Bldg., # 47 Kamias Road, Quezon City

Hurry! Call now at 7-903-5496

Only 15 seats available!

Click here to register online

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Posted in: 4parents,4siblings,fsg

A Grandfather Muses on Hope and Autism

by Dr. Carlo R.H. Magno

Tukayo -- Lolo Carlo is young Carl's idol and confidante.

On the first week-end of September 2012, I had the good fortune to be invited to attend the Regional Conference of ASP held at Carmona, Cavite. The eye-opening conference has given me a new outlook on autism and other forms of learning disabilities. I was amazed at the "hearty" spirit of everyone at the conference. And armed with my new learnings, I have been pondering on our family's own experiences.

The 8th of December 1992 was the date that God answered my prayer for a grandson, my first. The baby was fair skinned with chiseled nose, thin lips, and meaningful eyes enough to pass as handsome. For many years, there were no signs that the child was anything but the perfect grandson I believed him to be.

When my daughter confided to me that my grandson was diagnosed to have autism, my mind was hit by an avalanche of questions. I started to research on my family tree and found nothing to relate to the disability of my grandson. My constant fear then was that autism is synonymous to being unintelligent. I started to be more observant.

One of my grandson’s early fascinations was a complicated jigsaw puzzle, which he assembled effortllessy. One time, I intentionally disassembled his work and that was my first experience of one of his tantrums my daughter had only told me about.

Difficulties aside, I saw hope. More important still, my daughter and my son-in-law saw hope. They were resilient. They did not give up on their son and to their credit, the approach they chose developed him in ways which exceeded my expectations.

In his growing years, Carl would amaze me with his stock of knowledge. If his fascination is on Popes, he could recite the names of the Popes, the year they were installed, those who were assassinated, and those who died of disease. If his focus is on Presidents of the United States, he can even name their Vice Presidents from the time of Abraham Lincoln. When his focus was on world’s tallest structures, he could enumerate the top ten tallest buildings, who were the builder, the problems they encounter, the year they complete a certain floor.

Slowly my grandson was brought to the mainstream of society. He started manifesting "typical" tendencies like having crushes on his classmates and attractive teachers. He cherishes helping his father in their business. He does data encoding and even goes to the bank to deposit their collections.

Nowadays, when I commune with my Creator, gone are the “Why?” questions. Now I am constant with my unending “Thank you Lord for Your blessings. Thank you for the opportunities and challenges that engaged us in productive pursuits.”

A framed poster hanging on my wall is the foundation of disposition:

A little birdie up in the sky,
Dropped a pooh-pooh in my eye,
I did not curse, I did not cry
I just thank God
Carabaos don’t fly!

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Posted in: special

ASP Inducts New Officers and Trustees

Hon. Mayor Dahlia A. Loyola inducted the new set of officers and trustees of Autism Society Philippines last 8 September 2012 at the San Lazaro Business and Leisure Park, Carmona, Cavite. The induction was one of the major events of the two-day 5th Regional Conference on Autism, hosted by the ASP Cavite Chapters, with Ms. Albinia “Chie” Marquez acting as the Conference Chair.

Mayor Loyola of Carmona, Cavite is a long time partner and supporter of ASP. Through her political will and able leadership persons with disabilities and their families in Carmona now enjoy the benefits and privileges mandated by law.

The induction of ASP National new Board of Trustees facilitated by Mayor Dahlia Loyola

The new set of officers and trustees will serve our organization for two years. The ASP Officers are President Mary Janette Peña, Vice President Cecile Sicam, Secretary Mona Magno-Veluz, Treasurer Evelyn Go and Auditor Mary Grace Adviento. Serving as equally important Trustees are, Carmel Almendrala, Gina Bermudo, Perlita So, Elizabeth Udquin, Fortunato Agbayani and Alejandro Cabason, Jr.

This is the first time in the history of ASP that the president came from the provincial chapter of ASP!

As officers and trustees, the new group will be responsible for formulating new policies, implementing programs and services through the different committees and steering the organization to reach its goals to truly promote the rights and welfare of persons with autism and their families. It will be building on the successes of the previous officers and will be challenged to address the needs of an ever-changing society.

ASP and its 60 chapters join to welcome and congratulate the newly-inducted officers and trustees. More power to all of you!

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Posted in: leaders,special

ASP Conducts Orientation-Workshops on the Rights of CWDs

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) conducted three workshops for its “Educating Children with Disabilities of their Rights Using the Digital Talking Books” projects.

The first orientation-workshop was done last September 8 at the Asian Social Institute, Manila; the second at the Autism Resource Center in Los Baños, Laguna; and the third at the Function Room of the Municipality of Carmona, Cavite. A total of 90 special education teachers, therapist, community based rehabilitation volunteers, parents of CWDs and other disability workers attended.

The activity oriented the participants about the project, the rights of CWDs based on the provision of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and to solicit the comments and recommendations of the participants on the draft manual that will be used by facilitators who will be teaching the children.

The participants were very eager about the project and were amazed to view, hear and see for the first time digital talking books. They were also very active in giving their feedback and recommendations on how to improve the manual.

“The Digital Talking Books is good not only for children with disabilities but also for students without disabilities. I can also use it for my students who are deaf”, commented a teacher of deaf children from Carmona, Cavite.

The three orientation-workshops were successful and it opened another opportunity for ASP to have lectures on both the UNCRC and the UNCRPD for teachers, parents and other service providers for children with disabilities since in the three groups only a handful are aware of the two conventions wherein the Philippines in a signatory.

Our partners in the implementation of this ground-breaking project are:

ASP City of San Fernando Chapter, San Fernando, Pampanga
ASP Hagonoy Chapter, Hagonoy, Bulacan
Club Journey Volunteers Inc, Makati City
Stepping Stone Learning Center, Makati City
Independent Living Learning Center, Mandaluyong City
REACH Foundation, Mandaluyong City
KAISA KA CBR, Manila
The Learning Center, Parañaque City
Therapy Works, Parañaque City
La Sagesse Rehabilitation and Development Center, Pasig City
Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Las Piñas City
HOPE Development Center for Children, Las Piñas City
Bridges Foundation, Quezon City
Fairfield School, Quezon City
New Hope SPEd Center, Quezon City
NORFIL Foundation, Quezon City
Quality Life Discoveries, Quezon City
Resources for the Blind, Quezon City
Hopewell Integrated School, Bacoor, Cavite
Municipality of Carmona, Cavite
Calamba SPED Center, Calamba City, Laguna
Child and Teens Intervention Center, San Pablo City, Laguna
GS Option House for Autism, Biñan, Laguna
Holy Rosary College-SPED Department, Sta. Rosa City, Laguna
Hope Intervention Center, Calamba City, Laguna
Liliw Intervention Center, Liliw, Laguna
Shepherd of Faith SPED Center, Sta. Rosa City, Laguna
Autism Resource Center, Los Baños, Laguna

ASP’s “Educating Children with Disabilities of their Rights Using the Digital Talking Books" projects is the winner of the 2011 Search for Innovative Human Rights Initiatives. It received a funding support for its implementation from the Australian Aid (AusAID).

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Posted in: 4pwas,special

House Approves Bill Establishing Special Education (SPED) Centers Nationwide

The House of Representatives has approved on third reading a bill establishing special education (SPED) centers for children with special needs (CSNs) all over the country.

House Bill 6547, to be known as the Special Education (SPED) Act of 2012, seeks to institutionalize an adequate and relevant educational program for every CSN through the establishment of SPED Centers and provide vital support mechanisms.

Rep. Susan Yap

Rep. Susan Yap (2nd District, Tarlac), principal author of the bill, said the SPED Centers shall function as the resource center for the implementation of inclusive education that will accept all kinds of children on regular schools.

"The establishment of a SPED center in each school division and at least three SPED centers in big school divisions will ensure nationwide access of the CSNs to basic education through the formal system and other alternative delivery services in education and later facilitate integration with mainstream education," Yap said.

Yap said the Center shall assist, facilitate, and monitor the transfer and admission of qualified children with disabilities to post-secondary or tertiary education institutions.

"These SPED Centers in regular schools shall ensure that CSN fully develop their abilities, talents, interests and all aspects of their development to become more responsible for their lives and more effective partners in all the affairs of the state," Yap said.

The bill defines children with special needs as those who are gifted or are fast learners and those who are disabled, impaired or handicapped and in need of special education as well as services for rehabilitation.

Under the measure, each SPED center shall have specialized teachers who can handle children and youth with special needs including but not limited to those with visual or hearing impairment, autism, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, multiple disabilities, mental retardation/handicap and mental giftedness.

An assistant principal for each SPED center shall administer and supervise the alternative educational programs, early intervention programs, monitoring, supervision, and provision of technical assistance, training and enhancement programs to SPED personnel, referral and placement procedures, and oversee the other components of the special education.

Other members of administrative core and placement committee of the SPED unit are an educational psychologist or psychometrician, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech and language therapist/speech correction teacher, and one education supervisor.

The measure shall enhance the right of teachers and support personnel to professional advancement through adequate remuneration, scholarship and training grants and other incentives.

The Act also mandates full continuum of educational services by the Department of Education (DepEd) to those CSN below school age through regular home visits, consultations, day care activities and any other proper medium or program.

The measure also provides financial assistance to the economically marginalized but deserving CSN at the elementary and secondary levels; ensures adequate and free medical assistance and intervention programs for CSN; and grants incentives to private institutions catering to the needs of CSN.

The local government units shall be responsible for the provision of CSN-friendly sites and counterpart funds for training and seminars of parents and teachers in their respective localities.

The co-authors of the bill are Reps. Juan Edgardo Angara (Lone District, Aurora), Augusto Syjuco (2nd District, Iloilo), Pedro Acharon, Jr. (1st District, South Cotabato and General Santos City), Bernadette Herrera-Dy (Party List, Bagong Henerasyon), Eulogio Magsaysay (Party List, AVE), Danilo Ramon Fernandez (1st District, Laguna), Winston Castelo (2nd District, Quezon City), Rufus Rodriguez (2nd District, Cagayan de Oro City), Maximo Rodriguez, Jr. (Party List, Abante Mindanao), Joseph Victor Ejercito (Lone District, San Juan City), Emi Calixto-Rubiano (Lone District, Pasay City), Raymond Palatino (Party List, Kabataan), Rodolfo Biazon (Lone District, Muntinlupa City), Ma. Georgina De Venecia (4th District, Pangasinan), Linabelle Ruth Villarica (4th District, Bulacan), Diosdado Macapagal Arroyo (2nd District, Camarines Sur), Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2nd District, Pampanga), Tomas Apacible (1st District, Batangas), Ma. Carmen Zamora-Apsay (1st District, Compostela Valley), Cesar Sarmiento (Lone District, Catanduanes), Josephine Veronique Lacson-Noel (Lone District, Malabon City), Christopher Co (Party List, Ako Bicol), Rodel Batocabe (Party List, Ako Bicol), Alfredo Garbin, Jr. (Party List, Ako Bicol), Daryl Grace Abayon (Party List, PL, Aangat Tayo), Lani Mercado-Revilla (2nd District, Cavite), Alejandro Miraflores (Lone District, Aklan), Rachel Marguerite Del Mar (1st District, Cebu City), Cinchona Cruz-Gonzales (Party List, CIBAC), Czarina Umali (3rd District, Nueva Ecija), Aurora Enerio-Cerilles (2nd District, Magtanggol Gunigundo (2nd District, Valenzuela City), Emmeline Aglipay (Party List, DIWA), Abigail Ferriol (Party List, KALINGA), Nancy Catamco (2nd District, North Cotabato), Angelo Palmones (Party List, AGHAM), Luzviminda Ilagan (Party List, Gabriela), Mary Mitzi Cajayon (2nd District, Caloocan City), Emmi De Jesus (Party List, Gabriela), Antonio Tinio (Party List, ACT Teachers), Ma. Isabelle Climaco (1st District, Zamboanga City), Rafael Mariano (Party List, ANAKPAWIS), Marlyn Primicias-Agabas (6th District, Pangasinan), Eufranio Eriguel (2nd District, La Union), Mark Villar (Lone District, Las Piñas), Carol Jayne Lopez (Party List, YACAP) , Salvador Cabaluna III (Party List, I Care), Erico Aumentado (2nd District, Bohol), Thelma Almario (2nd District, Davao Oriental), Pedro Romualdo (Lone District, Camiguin), and Marcelino Teodoro (1st District, Marikina City).

For comments and suggestions, call Tel (632) 931-5001 local 7444.

By Jazmin S. Camero, Media Relations Service-PRIB, from the House of Representatives of the Philippines Website

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Posted in: education,law,sped

Celebrating Teachers

By DANG U. KOE, ASP Chair Emeritus

“I cannot emphasize enough the importance of a good teacher. A good teacher is worth his or her weight in gold. Some teachers just have a knack for working with autistic children. Other teachers do not have it. If you find a good teacher, hang on to him or her tight,” Temple Grandin.

ASP trains parents and health workers on early intervention for children with autism

On October 5, 2010, President Benigno S. Aquino III, declared the first Friday of September to October 5 as National Teachers' Month, to generate public awareness and support of the World Teachers' Day (October 5) in the country. The proclamation is essential to revitalize the image of teaching as a vocation by increasing public awareness on the value of teachers in Philippine society and for national development.

This week’s Angel Talker, Tiffany Tan, looks at how the role of educators as a partner in the holistic development of a child takes on a greater dimension in the lives of families living with autism.

***********

Successful PWAs look back

Temple Grandin, professor of animal science in the Colorado State University, often mentions her high school science teacher, William Carlock, and attributing him to having a positive influence in her life. In her HBO Biopic, Dr. Carlock encourages her to go further into science as a career and to eventually attend college. Temple Grandin is now a best-selling author, inventor, designer and consultant of cattle design facilities, and prolific autism advocate, traveling around the world to inspire others.

At the recently concluded 5th Regional Autism Conference in Carmona, Cavite, the panel interview with adults with autism "Home Run: PWAs in Action" brought out how educators were a critical piece in their development. While each have met their share of “good” and “bad” teachers, their personal growth is a testament to how the educators in their lives -- their parents, therapists, behaviorists and school teachers -- succeeded in molding them into productive and involved members of society.

For Gerard Atienza, a self-advocate and active member of the Autism Society Philippines, the life-changing roles of teachers resonate loudly. A graduate of De La Salle University, Gerard is currently taking up his Certificate in Teaching Program at the Philippine Normal University, pursuant to pushing his goal to become a teacher. Gerard is often seen volunteering his time for PVI Foundation, Inc. during their Kamp Pagkakaisa, a ten-day summer camp for children with special needs. The group also conducts yearly seminar training for volunteer teachers for children with special needs. At the recently concluded Regional Autism Conference, Gerard shared his dream of founding the Knights for Autism. He envisioned this to be a national organization for persons with autism, ran by persons with autism; giving seminars and lectures to empower people with autism.

Honoring SPED Educators in the Philippines

According to Education Secretary Armin Luistro, special needs teachers play a very important role in making Education For All (EFA) a reality. He said inclusive education should be available to all learners including those with special needs and thanks SPED teachers for their exemplary work on these children.

On the first quarter of this year, the Department of Education announced winners of the 2011 National Search for Outstanding Special Education Teachers. DepEd also accorded some 30 scholarships to selected teachers on autism nationwide this summer, to address the growing need for training.

During the abovementioned Regional Conference on Autism, Carmona Mayor Dahlia Loyola brought the conference delegates to her town’s Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) and SPED center. Delegates were surprised to find out that the Municipal Government actually allocates funds exclusively for the training of teachers on Special Education, Speech and Occupational Therapy. Some delegates of the conference expressed their wish for the good mayor to head their own local government programs for children with autism and their families.

Mayor Loyola encouraged participant-teachers to accept the challenge and commit themselves to the PDAO organization for the benefit of the PWD’s in their respective communities. The mayor believes educating the educators is also essential in the lives of persons with autism and would regularly send her staff to ASP seminars and workshops for training.

Autism Society Philippines’ Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon, said children with autism need assistance in terms of diagnosis, therapy and support services, as well as education and intervention programs that will increase their chances to develop into self-sufficient and productive individuals. Yearly, ASP conducts free seminars and trainings for special educators from different public schools, in coordination with the local government units and organizations dealing with the therapy services for children with autism.

**********

Happy Teachers Month! The Autism Society Philippines is inviting teachers and therapists to write 500-word essays on “Why I teach children with autism”. Please send entries via email to autismphils@gmail.com before 11pm of 02 October 2012 with the subject “ESSAY / Why I teach children with autism / ”. One winner will be announced on October 5, World Teachers’ Day, and will get free entry to all ASP professional seminars for one year. The winning piece will also be featured in this column on 08 October 2012.

This article appeared in print and online versions of the Manila Bulletin on 24 September 2012.

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Posted in: 4public,angels-talk,community

Hope is Everywhere: A Journal on the 5th Regional Conference on Autism

By Gerard Joseph Atienza, ASP Bacoor Chapter Secretary

It was a highly refreshing, nourishing, and interesting experience at the 5th Regional Conference on Autism as everyone shared a lot of lessons, experiences, and facts about living with autism and having hope at home.

ASP National trustees and PWA Carl Veluz

The weekend was indeed sunny, as the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Cavite Chapters, together with the Municipality of Carmona, successfully held the conference, themed “Living with Autism: HOPE@HOME,” on 8-9 September 2012 with fine weather, after being moved from its original date on 11-12 August due to bad weather. It was held at the San Lazaro Leisure and Business Park, which is well known for its horse races and gaming facilities, but is also well-known for its convention center and picturesque vistas.

The first day kicked off with a breathtaking performance from the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) of Carmona, featuring children with special needs dancing to “The Power of Your Love” by Hillsong. The second day, on the other hand, was opened by Buboy and Junjun Dolor singing “The Prayer” by Céline Dion and Andrea Bocelli. Tita Jan Peña (ASP National President), Tita Dang Koe (ASP Chair Emeritus), and Gov. Jonvic Remulla (Governor of Cavite) all delivered messages of hope. What awed everyone was Gov. Jonvic’s journey with his daughter with autism, Stella, and how he, recalled being a teacher to her amid his duties as provincial governor.

To jumpstart everyone for the topics ahead, the keynote speech was deliveredby one of the well-known occupational therapists in the country today, Sir Archie David, who gave an overview of the importance of community-based rehabilitation (CBR) to the well-being of persons with disabilities (PWD). Following him was Mayor Dahlia Loyola of Carmona, who showcased the town’s achievements in responding to the needs of their PWD constituents, as well as giving hints on how to implement CBR in the local government setting to the participants, who were primarily composed of social workers, teachers, students, and parents.

The participants of the conference were able to experience first-hand the achievements of the Carmona PDAO through an exposure trip to Carmona Elementary School, whose facilities were specially constructed for the benefit of their PWD students. There, students with special needs presented their accomplishments, products, and talents to the participants who joined said trip. Many of the participants got some goodies made by the PWDs themselves, which included food, trinkets, and more.

Other topics were nourishing as well, including Dr. Cecille Licuan’s topic on home-based intervention, Dr. Grace Gomez’s topic on family support, Tita Ging Viado’s topic on managing autism at the transition stage, and Teacher My Sorongon’s topic on sibling empowerment. And of course, who could forget the discussion panels of parents, PWAs, and siblings?

The parent panelists, composed of Dr. Malu Cagingin, Tita Cathy Lopez, Tito Evert Malapad, Tita Adel Martinez, and Tita Beth Udquin, shared their good and not-so-good experiences with their children with autism. And together with Tita Dang Koe, who stood as the panel’s moderator and being a parent to a PWA herself, everyone in the panel imparted refreshing lessons and insights to the participants, inspiring them to be strong and faithful to their children as they continue their journeys together with autism.

The PWA team of panelists was equally juicy, as yours truly, kuya Gabby Atienza, JR Tan, and Paul Garcia, with Tita Mona Veluz as our team captain, amused, intrigued, and awed our audiences with our own experiences, thoughts, and accomplishments as we play the game called life, and despite stumbling a lot of times, make it through and win in our own right. Also, the siblings’ panel was full of tales, both with happy and sad endings, as Banesa Baba, Thea Peña, Hycee Ramos, Buboy Samantela, and Mark Zeta, led by Teacher My Sorongon, told their stories and testimonials of their journey of their brothers with autism, and how they made it through thick and thin.

Speaking of siblings, we actually had a surprise guest, in the person of Shane Williams, brother of author with autism Donna Williams. Teacher Kismette Cepe-Riguerra, our host, interviewed Shane on his insights on the panel discussions as he shared his experiences with his sister, and is looking forward to invite Donna for future engagements with ASP.

The conference closed with a performance by the Siblings of Cavite, who sang HOPE@HOME, the official theme song of the 12th National Conference and the 5th Regional Conference, with a final word of thanks from Tita Chie Marquez (ASP Bacoor Chapter President).

This conference, indeed, was one of many landmarks. It was at this conference that 1Pangako (Isang Pangako), a campaign launched by ASP to stop the derogatory use of the word “autistic” as a slur in the Filipino lexicon, was formally launched. The official theme song, named “1Pangako,” made by ASP Trustee, Tita Gina Bermudo, and sung by Toto Sorioso, with a matching lyric video made by yours truly, was exhibited for the first time to the participants, who made a mob pledge led by Gov. Jonvic, Mayor Dahlia, and her husband Congressman Roy Loyola of the 5th District of Cavite.

Also, the new Board of Trustees of ASP, together with the new sets of officers of the Bacoor and Gen. Mariano Alvarez chapters, were sworn in to their posts at this conference. In addition, this conference was the very first in ASP’s history to be broadcast through live streaming on the Internet, together with live Twitter posts and Facebook statuses. And, to everyone’s delight, such a move garnered positive responses from netizens who followed us on Twitter and liked us on Facebook.

At this point, we would like to thank everyone who made this event possible: the organizers, our partners, our sponsors, and our participants, who made HOPE closer to HOME. We hope that the message of HOPE@HOME would be an inspiration to other regions in the Philippines, through the partnership of our ASP chapters and LGUs nationwide.

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

Let's all sing "1Pangako"!

The 1Pangako campaign theme song has been a great vehicle to spread our call for kindness and compassion. The emotion behind our advocacy is made real by the moving lyrics of Gina Luna Bermudo and the catchy tune crafted by Toto Sorioso. The video engineered by ASP Cavite Gerard Atienza on YouTube quickly garnered several hundred views in a few days.

We want you to help spread the word to stop the slur -- through music! You can make your own digital music videos or sing the song as an individual or as a group. Let the words inspire you to express your pledge creatively. Don't forget to share via social media and let us know!

Download "1Pangako" theme song and the minus one for FREE on ASP's Vibedeck page.

1Pangako Music

Isang Pangako
Lyrics ni Gina Luna Bermudo

Isang pangako ang bibitawan ko,
Hindi na ako magbibiro
gamit ang salitang "autismo".
Pangako, tutulong ako
Sa pagtuwid ng di wasto.
Kung dati'y walang kibo
Ngayon kikilos na ako.

Ngayon na! Ngayon na!
Ang bagong umpisa!
Paggalang at respeto
Sa kanila'y ipadama!

Isang pangako ang bibitawan ko
Hinding-hindi na ako magbibiro
Gamit ang salitang "autismo"
Nang huwag silang masaktan.

(Sipol) OoOOoo...

Lahat tayo'y magtulungan
Mangako't manindigan.
Pagkutya ay tigilan.
Tulong-tulong ipaalam.

Ngayon na! Ngayon na!
Ang bagong umpisa!
Paggalang at respeto
Sa kanila'y ipadama!

Isang pangako ang bibitawan ko
Hinding-hindi na ako magbibiro
Gamit ang salitang "autismo"
Nang huwag silang masaktan.

Kung tayong lahat, mangako,
Mag-ingat sa pagbibiro.
Ito ay magandang paraan tungo (tungo)
Sa totoong pagbabago (Sa totoong pagbabago),
Totoong pagbabago!

Isang pangako ang bibitawan ko
Hinding-hindi na ako magbibiro
Gamit ang salitang "autismo"
Nang huwag silang masaktan.

Isang pangako ang bibitawan ko
Hinding-hindi na ako magbibiro
Gamit ang salitang "autismo"
Nang huwag silang masaktan.

Isang pangako ang bibitawan ko (Ngayon na! Ngayon na!)
Hinding-hindi na ako magbibiro (Ngayon na! Ngayon na!)
Gamit ang salitang "autismo" (Ngayon na! Ngayon na!)
Nang huwag silang masaktan.

(Sipol) OoOOoo...

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Posted in: special

An ASP Mom on the GF/CF Diet

Wilma dela Cruz Ligot of ASP UP Camp Manila gave a Glutten-Free/Cassein-Free (GF/CF) Diet talk at a SPED seminar in New Era University (NEU) last August 1, 2012 in observance of the Nutrition month.

GFCF Diet for Treating Autism

Parents, teachers and students listened how mom Weng used this alternative therapy to improve the behaviour of her 8-year old son, Miles, diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome.

Ms. Ligot gave a documented outline of her son’s condition before and after the diet. “One month into a strict GF/CF Diet, my son became a different person. Focus is there, he became suddenly aware of his surroundings, improved his eye contact and over health condition”, says Weng.

The audience learned so many new things from mommy Weng like the right food to eat, the right way of cooking food and even the right cookware to use. She even detailed the top picks for fruits and vegetables, where to source them; DNA doctors in the country, among others, in the pamphlet she made that was later distributed to the parents and teachers. "Going back to basics", reading the labels in the items you buy in the grocery and eating food in its most "natural" state is her advise to parents.

She told the audience that her entire family is on a GF/CF for the past five years now. And it has significantly improved their health. Ms. Ligot was given a Certificate of Appreciation by Dr. Ed Dizon NEU SPED Consultant and Ms. Penelope Sandoval (NEU Sped Directress) at the end of her talk.

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Posted in: 4parents,seminar

Autism Awareness Seminar at NEU

By Jo Palomares, ASP Diliman Chapter President.

Autism Awareness Seminar at New Era University
with ASP Diliman Auditor Dra. Marie Segui (left, 1st row) and Jo Palomares, (3rd from right, second row);
Also present was Ms. Penny Sandoval, NEU SPED Directress (2nd from right, second row)

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Diliman Chapter gave an Autism Awareness Seminar for the Security Personnel of New Era Unversity (NEU) last August 19, 2012 at the NEU Security office.

About 40 security guards were present in the talk given by Dra. Rosemarie A. Segui and Josephine J. Palomares, Diliman Chapter's auditor and president respectively.

Dra. Segui explained what autism is and what it is not; while Ms. Palomares advised the guards what to do during "difficult situations" while inside the University. Ms. Penelope Sandoval, the NEU SPED Directress was also present to give support and to discuss further how the Security Unit and SPED Department can work together to provide the best service possible to students with special needs.

NEU SPED Department has a mainstream and a full inclusion program. Students with special needs are able to attend class and go around the campus with their neuro-typical peers.

The guards were thankful to ASP because of the very important information shared that will further equip and enable them to do their jobs better.

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Posted in: 4public,seminar

Fashion for a Cause

By Fatima Kozma, ASP Catanduanes.

Little girl's walk in fashion

Marjorie Cantollas, President of ASP Catanduanes Chapter launched her Island Fab Clothes Collection on the Fashion for a Cause at the Catanduanes Midtown Inn, Saturday afternoon, 25 August 2012. It was the chapter’s first Fund Raising Event and one that captivated the audience of how chic and yet simple dressing up can be. Not to mention, the members were in full support, all dressed up and made fabulous by our stylist. The models were all volunteers from establishments such as Jollibee & Mercury Drug; Students from Catanduanes State College and Catanduanes College; and children of the ASP Catanduanes Chapter members. We are truly humbled and blessed by the outpouring support of the people once again.

Ms. Cantollas is a stylist and a mother to three kids -- one with autism. With guidance from ASP trustee Ms. Gina Luna Bermudo, she has been advocating for autism awareness and acceptance, since the first support group on the island was formed in October 2010. She is a fixture in the ASP Catanduanes Chapter's activities and instrumental in the chapter's launch last 07 July 2012.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4pwas,leaders,special

Isang Pangako para sa Autismo

By DANG U. KOE, ASP Chair Emeritus

Filipinos have long been known for our colorful language. We are visual creatures with a tendency to brand things based on outward characteristics -- Boy Pandak, Lola Taba, Kikong Kirat. A mountain in Mindanao is named Susong Dalaga, for what the mound reminds those who behold it.

So it alarms many parents in our organization how young and not-so-young people today are choosing to use "autistic" as a "clever"-sounding adjective to add punch to their insults or jokes, without a care to what autism even truly means.

Mona Veluz (@mightymagulang on Twitter), the ASP National Secretary returns as this week’s Angel Talker.

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Government and church leaders are not the only ones who use slip and use the term ignorantly. Noon-time show hosts regularly use the slur as a joke, using the term “Budoy” (a soap opera character known for autistic-like behavior) for laughable behavior. Young people call each other “autistic” as a joke -- maintaining that it’s “just a word”people use. One blogger, even used the terms as a metaphor in a spiritual context -- equating spiritual “autism” with being evil. This kind of ignorance has become the root of bullying against many individuals with autism.

The unkind use of the word "autistic" needs to end now. Sadly, it is not something that can be changed by legislation or classroom education. It starts with a person choosing not to use "autistic" and other disabilities as a slur; and more important still, not to sit quietly by when friends and family use the word in a derogatory way.

The Autism Society Philippines formally launched the "Isang Pangako" (1Pangako) social media campaign, at the Regional Autism Conference in Cavite last September 8, 2012. The project aims to gather an ambitious, one million pledges from individuals to act to stop the derogatory use of the word "autistic" as a joke or an insult; and to promise to promote the acceptance and inclusion of people with disabilities.

The program is not so much about the goal but about getting there. The society aims to use the 1Pangako as a call for action -- as a means to open the door towards meaningful discussion on the true acceptance of individuals with autism over the next few months.

Individuals are encouraged to pledge via Facebook, Twitter or an on-line form. Non-digital pledges gathered in special events, public locations, businesses or schools are also encouraged. The campaign wants to inspire individuals to send in their pledges in a form most meaningful to them -- a blog entry, a status update, a digital poster, a photograph, a video, a song-- creative options are limitless!

As we meet individuals everyday, we encourage members and friends to talk about the project and to encourage them to pledge. We are hoping the project can be the springboard to more meaningful discussions on what autism truly is and an opportunity to educate others who has never had to deal with autism in their lives.

One simple promise can spur the change that may make life better for millions of Filipinos with autism. Go to the project page to find everything you need to know. http://bit.ly/1pangako.

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ASP seminars on September 29: “Picture Exchange Communication System” to be held in Asian Social Institute in Manila; and “Supporting Students with Special Needs in the Regular Classroom" in Los Baños, Laguna. The monthly family support group meeting open to all parents will be held on September 22 in Quezon City. For details, follow Autism Society Philippines in Facebook, Twitter and autismsocietyphilippines.blogspot.com.

This article is published by Manila Bulletin on 10 September 2012

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Posted in: angels-talk,community

Structured Teaching at Home and In School Seminar

Autism Society Philippines Davao City Chapter in partnership with Independent Living and Learning Centre (ILLC) Davao invites you to a seminar on

"STRUCTURED TEACHING…. AT HOME AND IN SCHOOL"

Structured teaching is a tool used to promote independence and productivity through structure over the lifetime of persons with autism. Structure consists of modifications in the environment, proactive routines, concrete and visual ways of presenting information.

Our resource person will not only share actual examples of structured teaching in schools in Metro Manila, but will also share local families' experiences (including her own as a mother of a son with autism) in applying structured teaching at home.

Ms. Dang Koe

Our speaker is Ms. Erlinda "Dang" Uy-Koe who graduated with Master's Degree in Communication from the University of the Philippines. She is the first Chairman Emeritus of Autism Society Philippines, after serving an unprecedented three consecutive terms (2004 to 2009) of trail-blazing leadership as the National President. She writes the column "Autism Angels Talk" in the Manila Bulletin’s Education section. A much sought-after speaker who travels to many parts of the country sharing hopes and building dreams with families living with autism, Mama Dang is the recipient of UST’s 2009 The Outstanding Thomasian Alumni Award for Humanitarian Service for her autism advocacy work.

Date of Seminar: September 15, 2012 (Saturday)
Time: 9:00-12:00 am
Place: Davao Doctors College Auditorium, Gen. Malvar Street, Davao City
Registration Fee: (Pre-registration is required on or before Sept. 12, 2012)
Registration fee- P500/participant, inclusive of snacks and Certificate of Attendance
Early-bird rate for individuals-P450 if registered on or before Aug. 31, 2012
Group Rate of P450.00 per participant for a group of 5
Group Rate of P400.00 per participant for a group of 10
Special Rate of P400.00 for ASP members of good standing

Contact Persons: Ms. Anna Maria Angeles, LET - Cellphone 0917-307-8754
Ms. Rina Gulanes, RN-Cellphone 0917-308-3973
ILLC Tel. no. 282-1407

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

ASP Family Support Group for September 2012

Share your HOPES and DREAMS with us. We will listen

Ms. Janette Peña with son Muneer

Mary Janette I. Peña or “Tita Jan” is the current President of ASP National. She was the former President of ASP Bacoor, Cavite Chapter and is fondly called the “Gobernadora of ASP Cavite Chapters”. Jan is one of the movers behind the meteoric rise in the numbers of ASP chapters nationwide. Her exemplary efforts have gathered hundreds of members from Cavite alone. Mommy Jan’s passion in serving the autism community earned her a title as ASP’s “hyper mom”.

Tita Jan is a mother and sometimes act as a father to her three children, Thea, the eldest, Muneer, a 16 y/o adolescent with autism and Milli, the youngest since Al, her supportive husband, is an overseas Filipino worker in the Middle East.

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

FREE REGISTRATION
Date: September 22, 2012, Saturday
Time: 1:00-5:00PM
Venue: ASP Office, Room 307, ML Bldg., #47 Kamias Road, Quezon City
Hurry! Call now at 7-903-5496
Only 15 seats available!

Click here to sign up online on the Family Support Group

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Posted in: 4parents,4siblings,fsg

Why You Should Attend the 5th Regional Conference on Autism

As you are reading this article, you might be asking these questions: “Am I going to attend this conference?” “If I do, what benefit am I going to get by attending this conference?” “Will it be worth my effort and my time?” “Am I going to get more than what I paid for”? A lot more questions like these might spring into your thoughts as the 5th Regional Conference on Autism is fast approaching.

If you are thinking about attending the conference, it’s great to know the value, the lessons, and the gains you can get by doing so. After all, this is done in the spirit of the 12th National Conference on Autism, which was held on 28-29 April 2012 at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, and if you were unable to attend that conference for some reason, this is your chance to partake of the knowledge and the lessons that were imparted during that conference.

If you are a member of a local government unit (LGU), it’s all about knowing how to serve your constituents with the appropriate tools you will need to help them get equipped with skills and be empowered. This conference shall showcase what the Municipality of Carmona, which by the way is one of the most distinguished towns in the Philippines, has done to help persons with disabilities, which comprise part of the town’s constituency. Also, the adage “It takes a village to raise a child” will be proven first-hand, as you will get a chance to visit the facilities that the Persons with Disability Affairs Office has set up to help their constituents with special needs become functional members of society.

If you are a teacher, a professional, and a social worker, among the topics that will be discussed in this conference is community-based rehabilitation, as well as support for adults with autism who are into their transition stage. The lessons from said topics can be used in your everyday duties, particularly in teaching and training persons with autism on life lessons, thus giving them hope.

If you are a parent, you need not worry about being alone in your journey with your child on the autism spectrum. Your fellow parents are there to share their stories on their travels, travails, and triumphs on rearing their children with autism. Also, principles on home-based intervention and family support, topics that will be discussed in this conference, can be nourishing to your journeys. These, coupled with other related topics and panels, can help you feel hope is closer to home.

If you are a student who will be attending the conference, all of the topics can be additional knowledge that you can use for your future assignments, as well as messages of hope to share with your classmates and the student body. Plus, as with any conference, you get a certificate that you can keep, and a credential you can add to your résumé, in case you’ll need it for future job application.

If you are a person with autism, you can get to acquaint yourself with your fellow PWAs, who will also be present throughout the conference. Get a chance to gain new friends, meet with old ones, and help inspire each other and all the other participants. What’s more, a few of us will be present in the panel, sharing our journeys right off the bat, and how we, despite the many challenges posed by our condition, manage to have hope and make it through daily living.

If you are a sibling of a person with autism, others like you are on the same page as you’re on. You can get to know one another, and share your hopes and experiences with your siblings with autism. After all, birds of the same feather flock together, and in this conference, flocking with other siblings would be the best way to go, and it would be an opportunity to gain strength and lessons in your further journeys with your sibling on the autism spectrum.

So, if you are thinking that these are good reasons enough to attend the conference, take advantage of this opportunity to be part of HOPE@HOME! See you there!

Living with Autism hope@home logo

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The 5th Regional Conference on Autism, with the theme “Living with Autism: HOPE@HOME,” will be held on 8-9 September 2012 at San Lazaro Business and Leisure Park, Carmona, Cavite. 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.

*****

This article was a contribution from Gerard Joseph Atienza, ASP Bacoor Chapter Member

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Posted in: chapters,education,regional,seminar

5th Regional Conference on Autism: HOME Run: PWAs in Action

Just like the game of baseball, every journey with autism needs a game plan. And in the playing field that is called society, how do you think persons with autism (PWA) play the game that is called life? Join us as we hear right off the bat tales of journeys from our PWA panelists, who, despite many strike-outs and extra innings, still manage to make home run and win the game, all in their own right.

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 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.

Moderator

Mona Magno-Veluz

Ms. Mona Veluz

Ms. Veluz, better known as Tita Mona and @mightymagulang, is the National Secretary of Autism Society Philippines. A graduate of Business Administration at UP Diliman, she also finished her graduate degree in Applied Business Economics and Strategic Marketing at the University of Asia and the Pacific and the London Business School. She has held various global management roles in technology multinational companies, and has taken her autism rights advocacy into social media by blogging and tweeting about her many adventures. She is a mom to three kids, including Carl, a 19-year old PWA.

Panelists

Gabriel Atienza

Gabriel Atienza

Gabby is a comic book artist, known for his works Deputy Dodgers and My Life as a Comic Book, the latter depicting his life with Asperger syndrome, a condition on the autism spectrum with which he was diagnosed in 2002. He has studied in the University of the East and the Philippine Women’s University where he majored in Fine Arts. He has worked a sales representative in a computer shop for 14 years, and currently works as an in-house artist at the Center for Autism and Related Disorders. Since his diagnosis, he has taken his skills in his move for self-advocacy, while using them to give art lessons to children.

Gerard Joseph Atienza

Gerard Atienza

Gerard is the current Secretary of ASP Bacoor Chapter, and also the program assistant of the 5th Regional Conference. A graduate of AB Broadcast Journalism at De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, he is currently taking up his Certificate in Teaching Program at the Philippine Normal University, pursuant to pushing his goal to become a teacher, particularly for people with autism and other special needs. He used to work as a call-center agent for over two years, and is currently a freelance multimedia artist, a volunteer for children with special needs, and a self-advocate.

Mikko del Rosario

Mikko del Rosario

Mikko is an Administrative Aide at Holy Nazarene Christian School in Tanza, Cavite, which happens to be his alma mater where he graduated high school in 2007, and has been working there since 2008. He is a member of various civic and church organizations in his community, namely: Knights of Rizal, Del Carmen, and Hijos-Hijas del Maria, among others. He is working to promote PWD rights within the local setting in his own right.

Paul Ian Garcia

Paul Ian Garcia

Paul is a Teacher Aide at Hopewell Integrated School, where he is also one of its students. He is particularly active in activities involving autism awareness in the Cavite area, and also gives support for other special children at school. Despite the many challenges he encounters as a person on the autism spectrum, he proves himself to being reliable and industrious, using his physical strength and through his daily tasks.

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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,4pwas,regional,seminar

5th Regional Conference on Autism: HOMEward Bound: The Siblings

Any journey is never complete without a guide to lead you to the right path. For a person with autism, the road can be especially bumpy and rough. These guides are their siblings- their brothers and sisters who help make their travels along the bumpy roads, the raging seas, and the gusty winds smooth. Join these guides who made a remarkable difference in the lives of their sibling with autism as they chronicle their hopeful journeys together bound for home.

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 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.

Moderator

Rosalyn Marie Gison-Sorongon

Ms. My Sorongon

Ms. Sorongon, or Teacher My, as she is usually referred to, is a member of the Education Committee of Autism Society Philippines and is the Facilitator of the annual Autism Society Philippines SibsCamP, a series of activities for siblings of people with autism. She is a faculty in the Coaching Program for Medical Students at the Ateneo de Manila University School of Medicine and Public Health. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology majoring in Human Service at Assumption College in 1993, and earned her master’s degree in Education major in Special Education at UP Diliman in 2008.

Panelists

Banesa Jane Baba Banesa, also known as Nesa or Sasa, daughter of ASP GMA Chapter Treasurer Ms. Carmelita Baba, is a Nursing student at De La Salle Health Sciences Institute. An elder sister to Brenan, a 7-year-old child with autism, she views her brother as the family’s ice breaker and their source of happiness. Despite the hardships her family went through in raising him, she considers him as their strength and her reason why she looks forward to take up Medicine and Neurology.

Anthea Carmeli Peña

Thea Peña

Thea is the Treasurer of ASP Bacoor Chapter, eldest daughter of ASP National President Jan Peña, and sister to 16-year-old teenager with autism, Muneer. An artist, writer, volunteer, and advocate, she is currently taking up Occupational Therapy at De La Salle Health Sciences Institute. One of her achievements in the autism advocacy campaign, an engagement she started together with her mom, include: being the co-facilitator of the Siblings Workshop.

Marian Celeste Ramos

Hycee Ramos

Hycee is a customer service representative for Dairy Crest Ltd. A graduate of AB Psychology, she is a regular at the Siblings Workshop, where she started attending at 11 years old in Davao City back in 1998. She then joined the Siblings Workshop and Leadership Programs in Los Baños, Laguna, and since then, became a co-facilitator for Siblings Camp 2008, 2010, and 2012 for ASP Laguna She is an elder sister to a young adult with autism, Mico, aged 19.

Mark Zeta

Mark Zeta

Mark is a college student and elder brother to Christian, a 15-year-old teenager with autism. A passionate sportsman and a regular at the SibsCamP, his brother’s condition gave him a sense of responsibility and inspiration, and is grateful to have him in his life, however challenging it is for him and their parents to handle his brother’s condition. He believes that despite the countless times he struggles in becoming a big brother to a sibling with autism, it has reformed him significantly and looks to inspire other siblings to follow suit.

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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,4pwas,4siblings,regional,seminar

5th Regional Conference on Autism: Hope Begins at Home

The 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 education and rehabilitation, particularly in the local community setting.

Family Support: Feeling at HOME

Dr. Marie Grace A. Gomez This topic will discuss how the family, as the basic unit of society, can help their child with autism in developing skills and abilities that will help him or her function as a contributing member of society. It will also tackle on what families of PWAs go through from the time of diagnosis, and what they can do to support their children.

About the Speaker

Dr. Grace Gomez

Dr. Marie Grace A. Gomez is a member of the faculty of the UP Special Education, and a member of the Subcommittee on Education of the National Council on Disability Affairs. She is a recipient of the UP Presidential Scholarship Award and Pi Gamma Mu Excellence in the Social Sciences Award. She has published articles in local and foreign journals, and is a Reviewer of The Journal of International Business and Management and The Journal for Research and Review. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science at UP Diliman in 1998, and has obtained her master’s degree in Education in 2003 and her PhD in Education in 2007. She is currently working on her second doctorate in Special Education and on her dissertation on creating a standardized test to measure teacher competence.

No Place like HOME: PWAs Moving On

Ms. Noemi T. Viado This topic will discuss home-centered care for adults in transition and how it can help them become responsible and functioning members of society. It will also highlight most of their capacities and skills, and ways on how they can get into the workforce.

About the Speaker

Ms. Ging Viado

Ms. Noemi T. Viado, or Tita Ging, is the Directress of GS Option House and Learning Center in Biñan, Laguna. She has dedicated her life in teaching persons with autism for the past 22 years and has been training parents, professionals, and caregivers on behavior modification, her area of expertise. As a result of these years of experiences, she has created a program for PWAs from early childhood to adulthood based on behavior modification principles and functional whole life skills approach. She is a mother to Gigi, 26, and has been a trustee of Autism Society Philippines from 2007 to 2011.

Siblings: COPE@HOME

Ms. Rosalyn Marie G. Sorongon Siblings have a powerful influence on the lives of their brother/sister with autism. This topic covers the importance of sibling relationships, the impact of autism on siblings of PWAs, coping mechanisms of siblings, and common concerns and needs of siblings.

About the Speaker

Ms. My Sorongon

Ms. Rosalyn Marie G. Sorongon, or Teacher My is a member of the Education Committee of Autism Society Philippines and is the Facilitator of the annual Autism Society Philippines SibsCamp, a series of activities for siblings of people with autism. She is a faculty in the Coaching Program for Medical Students at the Ateneo de Manila University School of Medicine and Public Health. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology majoring in Human Service at Assumption College in 1993, and earned her master’s degree in Education major in Special Education at UP Diliman in 2008.

*****

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,leaders,regional,seminar

ASP joins Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation Orientation

Natural disasters like typhoons, floods, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, are usual occurrences in lives of many Filipinos. In 2011, the Philippines was one of the countries hardly hit by both natural and man-made disaster. Natural calamities, not only costs millions of pesos; buts also claims the lives of many, including persons with disabilities (PWDs) and the marginalized members of our society.

Ranilo Sorongon with sponsors

The National Anti Poverty Commission (NAPC) sponsored an orientation on Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation last August 28 and 29, 2012 at Cuidad Christhia in San Mateo, Rizal. More than 200 leaders representing the 14th basic sectors under NAPC joined the event. The PWD sector was represented by ASP Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon, Sectoral Representative Emer Rojas, Abner Manlapaz, Ogie and Jean Gonzales and Tahanan Walang Hagdanan.

The one and a half day seminar covered Risk Reduction and Management, Climate Change, Hydro-Meteorological Hazards, Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards), Community-Based DRRM, among others. The topics might be somewhat technical at first glance; but with the excellent presentations, simple explanations and humor, the speakers were able to keep participants engaged.

On the second day, the participants were divided into groups to come up with a simple plan of action for their respective sectors. The PWD group agreed to come up with a resolution to make DRRM and Climate Change Adaptation as a supplementary agenda of the sector in the coming meeting this October. It will also include an orientation on the topic and a simple planning on what will the PWD Council will under take in relation to DRRM and Climate Change Adaptation. The resolution and will be sponsored by Mr. Abner Manlapaz, Ranil Sorongon, Jean Gonzalez and Joy Garcia with the support of PWD Sectoral Representative Emer Rojas.

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Posted in: 4public,leaders,seminar

Liliw of the Valley

By David Michael C. Lopez.

The fifth anniversary celebration of the Liliw Intervention Center was held last August 15 in Liliw, Laguna.

PWAs having fun playing games

Our group, the Autism Resource Center (ARC), reached Liliw, Laguna at around 9:00 am, after a two-hour travel from Los Baños. Partner schools from the ASP Laguna Chapter including Paete Intervention Center for Autism and Other Related Disorder (PICARD), Central School of Liliw, representatives from the local government of Liliw, parents and friends were also present.

A motorcade kicked off the celebration with all the participants riding in marked vehicles around Liliw, Laguna. We headed to the school where an array of fun-filled games and surprises awaited all the attendees. Song and dance numbers where presented by the students of Liliw Intervention Center.

Ms. Agnes Dans, the mother of John and the parent coordinator of LIC, was the first to address the guests, as she expressed her love and support to her son. She also recalled how the center rose above the challenges, from a bahay-kubo housing 6 children with different disabilities and now to the premises of Liliw Central Elementary School with 17 children and counting. Two educators patiently training each student to become functional in their homes is also a strength of the center.

Ms. Rizalinda Cansanay, President of the Autism Society Philippines Laguna Chapter, delivered a short message, saying that hope springs eternal for individuals with autism. She also acknowledged people who worked hard to make the intervention center a reality.

Other speakers included Mr. Armin O. Cabrales, principal of Liliw Central Elementary School; retired principal Mrs. Nancy N. Arevalo, and Honorable Mayor of Liliw Cesar C. Sulibit.

After the fun and games, a sumptuous lunch was served by the generous Tita Beth’s Foodhouse. The fifth foundation anniversary was a tremendous success as brought hope and joy to all the individuals and families with autism in attendance.

We pray that the school will keep on launching more programs to promote social change and development to the community-hopes and dreams that will not fade. More power!

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Posted in: special