ASP hosts seminar on music therapy

The Autism Society Philippines conducted a seminar, entitled “Music Therapy as an option for PWAs.” The seminar was held at Mini Theather Lopez Building Meralco Compound, Pasig City last October 25, 2014, attended by parents, professionals and advocates. The seminar was facilitated by Ms. Ma. Solinda Garcia-Bautista, one of the first batch of graduate students at the St. Paul University Manila College of Music and the Performing Arts, a Center of Excellence for Music pioneering Music Therapy programs in the Philippines.

Participants in Music Therapy seminar

Music therapy is considered one of the expressive therapies, consisting of a process in which a music therapist uses music and all of its facets—physical, emotional, mental, social, aesthetic, and spiritual—to help clients improve their physical and mental health. Music therapists primarily help clients improve their cognitive functioning, motor skills, emotional development, social skills, and quality of life, by using music experiences such as free improvisation, singing, and listening to, discussing, and moving to music to achieve treatment goals.

Participants shared their thoughts about the seminar:

"Very good, very interactive and very ambitious. The seminar is excellent."

"Covered both music and ASD. Could have given more sample studies."

"The speaker is amazing. She is also able to show how to do music therapy in an easy way that even parents could do it with their children."

"Informative all in all and a lot of things opened on me personally on the treatment of my child."

About the contributor: Lloyd Ngo worked as an ASP intern when he attended Independent Living and Learning Center. He began working in 2012 as an encoder at the Ongkiko Manhit Custodio and Acorda Law Offices in Makati. He is currently ASP’s Program Assistant for Communications.

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

ASP holds first Angel Corps Volunteer Day

The Autism Society Philippines held its first ASP Angel Corps Volunteer Day last 18 October 2014 at Bridges Foundation, Inc. Scout Limbaga Street, Quezon City. Students, church workers, teachers, therapists and families were present for the fun, educational morning -- the ice breakers, the orientation on autism and on ASP, and the presentation on the plans of the Autism Society Philippines in Q4 2014 and Q1 2015, and the free-flowing sharing.

Angel Corps Group photo

The ASP Angel Corps is the volunteer arm of the Autism Society Philippines. It is composed of civic-minded individuals who are sharing their time and talent towards creating a society where Filipinos with autism become the best of their potentials -- independent, self-reliant, productive and socially-accepted members of the community.

The ASP Angel Corps welcomes a great diversity of talents and offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. Our battle cry: Hope, Act, Impact!

Sign up for the ASP Angel Corps using the form below to get an invitation for the next volunteer orientation on 10 January 2015.

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Posted in: angel corps,volunteers

The ASP General Assembly -- a community, a family

The General Assembly of the Autism Society Philippines convened at the MERALCO Multi-Purpose Hall on 25 October 2014 at 1pm. Members and chapter leaders arrived from all over the country -- from San Fernando, La Union to Naga, Camarines Sur.

ASP General Assembly group

The event kicked off with an ice breaker from the gracious duo of Trustees Grace Adviento and Peng So. Jan Peňa, our outgoing President recounted what our advocacy has accomplished over the last two years -- our reasons to celebrate -- and what we continue to aspire for. Treasurer Evelyn Go -- our “ingat-yaman” -- reported on the society’s financial standing.

Election Committee Chair Ranil Sorongon facilitated the pre-election and asked the confirmed candidates to introduce themselves and to share how they wanted to contribute to the organization. Memorable was an emotional speech from Grace Adviento who shared that service to ASP is difficult, time-consuming work; and while most of the veteran trustees would like to “rest” from service, they cannot do so until the next generation of leaders step up to contribute to the advocacy.

Secretary Mona Magno-Veluz read provisions from the by-laws and declared a quorum to kick off the elections. For the first time in the association's history, ASP honored on-line votes from members outside the National Capital Region.

During the tabulation of votes, a Town Hall meeting was moderated by Chair Emeritus Dang Koe and opened the floor to comments, suggestions and requests.

- Anawi Tolentino requested for a toolkit which advocates can use in sensitivity training in universities

- Grace Corpuz shared that many chapter members are willing to be trained to assist in ASP National projects

-Mona Veluz asked the self advocates present at the assembly, how ASP can help make their lives better and what activity or project would make them happy.
..... Carl - wants to have an ASP prom in February for adults
..... Gerard - wants self-advocates to be represented in the board
..... Danmar - wants help to work in the National Historical Commission
..... Lloyd - wants to have more fun socialization
..... Angelo - loves food
..... Kevin - wants to work in a grocery
..... Alvin - wants to play basketball
..... Paolo - wants improved sibling workshops
..... Christian - wants to be a grocery manager

- Ranil shared that the next ASEAN Autism Network meeting will be in Malaysia in 2015 and would like to ask for help from ASP to help prepare our delegation for the Autism Olympics and the Conference.

The general assembly ratified the proposed ASP By-Laws by a landslide. The nine newly-elected ASP trustees met after the assembly to vote on the Autism Society Philippines’ officers for 2014 - 2016. Congratulations to all those who have been called to serve -- and may your leadership bring ASP to loftier heights. Read more about them here.

Mona Magno-Veluz, President
Alejandro Cabason, Vice-President
Cecile Sicam, Secretary
Evelyn Go, Treasurer
Perlita So, Auditor
Mary Grace Adviento, Trustee
Carmel Almendrala, Trustee
Mary Janette Pena, Trustee
Ma. Victoria Ramos, Trustee
Erlinda Koe, Chair Emeritus

According to the ASP Policy 14-0033 on Organization Design, Item 6.2.3.3: In the event of board vacancy, the Board of Trustees will nominate candidates from the pool of active members who meet the criteria for ASP Trustees and will collectively decide who among the nominees shall fill up the board vacancy. This decision will be made over the next few weeks.

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Posted in: community,elections

Carmel Almendrala leads ASP’s October FSG

ASP Trustee Carmel Almendrala welcomed eight parents to the ASP monthly family support group on 18 October 2014. ASPs monthly family support group sessions bring together parents, siblings and other family members to talk about their journey in living with autism. Participants share their experiences and draw enlightenment and strength from others going through the same challenges. We welcome members and non-members to this intimate gathering.

Carmel Almendrala leads Family Support Group

One non-ASP partipant said, “Having a child with autism is not hard as I thought it is. That there are other families that can help and assist. That there many ways to. I need to learn more strategies to explore abilities of my child. I’m blessed to join and know more about this group.”

To explore the many ways you can help your child with autism, join the Autism Society Philippines. The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of persons with autism spectrum disorder. The ASP has been in the forefront of providing services and training to families living with autism. More at http://bit.ly/asp-join.

About the contributor: Lloyd Ngo worked as an ASP intern when he attended Independent Living and Learning Center. He began working in 2012 as an encoder at the Ongkiko Manhit Custodio and Acorda Law Offices in Makati. He is currently ASP’s Program Assistant for Communications.

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Posted in: fsg

Meet the Candidates

The Autism Society Philippines will be electing its next batch of trustees this 25 October 2014, Saturday. The Election Committee is composed of Mr. Ranil Sorongon (Elecom Chair), Ms. Cathy Tañedo (Elecom Vice-Chair), Ms. Ida Blasco, Ms. Carla Dizon and Mr. Lloyd Ngo. Ranil and Cathy have both served as ASP Executive Directors.

Fifteen (15) nominees were evaluated by the Election Committee for the criteria set in the ASP Operations Manual. While some were not qualified, others did not accept the nomination. As of today, the Elecom has confirmed the final nine (9) candidates.

According to the ASP Policy 14-0033 on Organization Design, Item 6.2.3.3: In the event of board vacancy, the Board of Trustees will nominate candidates from the pool of active members who meet the criteria for ASP Trustees and will collectively decide who among the nominees shall fill up the board vacancy.

Meet the candidates for the ASP Board of Trustees 2014-2016.

Adviento, Mary Grace (ASP National). A physical therapist by training but a copy center entrepreneur by profession, Grace is mother to CWA Adrian. Her down-to-earth and magnetic appeal makes her one of the best facilitators of Early Detection and Intervention Program and SM Autism Orientation. Grace is “face of ASP mom.” She brings encouragement to mothers that life with autism can be exciting, giving smiles of hope to other families. Grace has contributed to ASP in multiple capacities, most significantly as ASP’s President from 2010-2012.

Almendrala, Carmelita (ASP National). A former ambassador’s wife and an Ulirang Ina Awardee of 2010, Carmel personifies diplomacy as she faces the world with poise, grace and intelligence. Over the years and in the many countries where their family has had to relocate because of her husband's work, she laboured tirelessly to advocate for her son Michael, now in his 40’s. Serving as Trustee for more than six terms, she reminds young mothers of children with autism: Grab every opportunity and don’t take no for an answer. This is evident in her son Mike, who is a Special Olympian Medalist (who competed in 2005 in powerlifting and in 2013 in bowling), a 2005 Apolinario Mabini Awardee, and an independent member of the community working as an administrative staff of the Philippine Information Agency.

Cabason, Alejando (ASP Marikina). Alex is a graduate of AB Political Science from the University of the East Manila and of MA in Public Administration from the University of the Philippines Diliman. This public servant, church worker and a motivational speaker is happily married with four children. His youngest child, Victor Lorenzo or Vinz is on the spectrum. An ardent advocate of autism education since 2002, he is the President of ASP Marikina Valley Chapter.

Evelyn and Gelo

Go, Evelyn (ASP National). Evelyn juggled between managing her business and taking up Special Education in UP Diliman to help her son, Gelo. “This disability (autism) will be a life long challenge our family has to face. I accepted this and learned to cope.” With her no-non-sense financial management skills and business instincts, Evelyn has been a valued ASP Trustee, serving as the organization's Treasurer for multiple terms.

Peña, Mary Janette (ASP Bacoor). She 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 Chapter.” 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. Tita Jan and Al, her supportive husband and overseas Filipino worker in the Middle East, are doting parents to her three children, Thea, Muneer (an adolescent with autism) and Milli.

Marivic (right)

Ramos, Ma. Victoria (ASP Laguna). Marivic currently serves as the Vice-President of ASP Laguna. Marivic is a pillar of the autism advocacy community in Los Baños, immersing herself in special education and training and empowerment programs over the years. As an ASP delegate, she was elected to the board of the Philippine Community Based Disability Inclusive Development Network. She is a single mother to a 22 years old young adult with autism, Victor Michael "Mico" Ramos.

Sicam, Cecilia (ASP National). She is one of the 11 original founders of the Autism Society Philippines. She has served ASP in many capacities, as President from 2000 to 2004; and as its current Vice President. Inspired by her PWA son Likas, Ces has been instrumental in the founding of Professionals for Autism Foundation, Inc., Center for Autism and Related Disorders, the Philippine Association for Behavioral Analysis, and Bridges Foundation where she is currently its Directress. She taught SpEd for three years Santa Clara, California; and came back to serve Filipino children with special needs. Her adult son is employed full time as R & B Ice Plant.

So, Perlita (ASP National). Peng juggles between being a full-time, hands-on-mom to her two gems on the spectrum, Patrick and Angelo; and, with her husband, empowering her other adult children in handling the family business. Peng has inspired many with her fortitude in guiding Patrick (who recently graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University) and Angelo (who undergoes functional life skills and pre-vocational training). By a fortunate stroke of serendipity, Peng was introduced to ASP and autism advocacy; and she has never looked back. Advocating for autism acceptance and inclusion has become a part of her daily agenda. She inspires others to think beyond the autism diagnosis and to enrich the lives of children with autism by gifting them with valuable life experiences.

Veluz, Mona (ASP National). Mona received degrees in Business Administration, Applied Economics and Strategic Marketing from the University of the Philippines, University of Asia and the Pacific and the London School of Business. As a practicing marketing communications professional, she has held various global management roles in the technology industry. Mona is a wife and a mom to three kids. Her eldest is PWA Carl, a young man working in their family business. She is currently serving as the National Secretary of the Autism Society Philippines.

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Posted in: elections

Non-NCR ASP Members may vote on-line

The ASP National Office recognizes the growing number of provincial chapters. Members from provincial chapters are often unable to participate in ASP National General Assemblies and Elections because of geographical distance and personal expense necessary to make a trip to Manila. The Board of Trustees recognized that many modern technological advances may help solve the difficulties of our members in provincial areas to engage with ASP National.

ASP logo

By virtue of Board Resolution Number 14-0069, dated 19 May 2014, the Autism Society Philippines will utilize digital technology to allow current members in the provincial areas to exercise their right to vote in ASP National elections. Communications with members, broadcasting the general assembly and voting for trustees may also be conducted through secure suitable digital technologies.
Members from the National Capital Region are NOT eligible for on-line or distance voting; because their presence in a critical meeting such as a National General Assembly is a basic member responsibility. Any votes received from a member from NCR will NOT be counted by the Election Committee.

If you are an updated member living outside Metro Manila, you may cast your vote on 24 October 2014, Friday between 1pm and 9pm.

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Posted in: elections

ASP in UP Diliman Transcend Spedminar

ASP Diliman was a featured participant at the recently concluded UP Spedminar called Transcend, organized by the UP Special Education Council of the University of the Philippines, College of Education to promote special education in the country. It was held last during the four Saturdays of September in the UP Diliman campus.

During Transcend Spedminar

Focused on “Preparing for the Real World through SPED,” Jo Palomares narrated their family’s journey with autism, with her son Macky, who is now 15 years old. She reminded all to “never, never, ever, ever give up” -- a message which resonated with parents, teachers and students. She continued by giving pointers and tips on parenting a child with autism. As a fitting end to her talk, Macky Palomares played “You raise me up” on the piano and earned a standing ovation.

About the author: Jo Palomares has long been the face of autism advocacy for ASP Diliman chapter. After serving as the President of the chapter for multiple terms, she continues to serve the disability community as she leads the Kaakibat ng ASP Quezon City Credit Cooperative; and contributes as an active member of the Association for Adults with Autism. She owns and personally manages a thriving model airplane export business in Bulacan. Her son Macky is on the spectrum.

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Posted in: community,education,family,leaders,self-advocates

ASP joins SPU in Launch of Music Therapy Center

The Autism Society Philippines was represented by Ms. Cecile Sicam, ASP Trustee at the launnch of the Music Therapy Program at St. Paul University Manila last 10 October 2014. She was joined by other esteemed educators who witnessed the ribbon-cutting, a survey of the facilities and a lecture-demo.

Ms. Cecile Sicam and Ms. Sol Bautista with St. Paul staffs

St. Paul’s University Manila boasts that this is “the first Music Therapy Center in the Philippines, which will provide music therapy services for differently challenged children, adolescents, and adults. As with all music therapy sessions, the goals of the music therapy offered in the Center depend on the needs, abilities, and challenges of the clients. They can range from increased mobility to improved communication skills, to reduced anxiety or exploring personal issues. Through music therapy’s well planned, professional, and skillful use of music, St. Paul University Manila hopes to help improve the quality of life for people with disabilities of various kinds and to help children with developmental disabilities to reach their highest potentials.”

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Posted in: education,therapy,university

Referendum on new ASP by-laws on October 25

The Autism Society Philippines will be holding its 2014 General Assembly on October 25 at the Ground Floor, Lopez Building, Meralco Compound In Pasig City. Aside from electing the new board of trustees, the ballot will also include a "yes" or "no" vote on the the new by-laws.

The ASP By-Laws, now 25-years old, needed to change to keep with the needs of an ever-growing family advocacy. The proposed changes are a result of more than a year of research on the most effective approach to certify the society as a genuine non-government organization (NGOs) amidst post-Napoles public scrutiny, a consultation with chapter leaders on policy priorities at the Chapter Leaders Conference on 8-9 March 2014 and multiple ASP Board deliberations in 2014.

The proposed changes on the ASP by-laws can be summarized below.

1. Update communication to include electronic means since there were no cell phones or internet at the time the By-laws were made.
2. Redefinition of duties of National officers as overseers of staff rather than actual performers of tasks.
3. Inclusion of statements required by the Philippine Council of NGO Certification, regarding disposal of organization’s assets upon its dissolution.

The full text of the proposed ASP by-laws can be found here. The line by line comparison of old and new provisions of the ASP By-Laws can be found here.

While many more improvements and changes can be introduced to the By-Laws, the ASP trustees feel that the proposed changes addresses the society's most critical needs and our visibly urgent priorities, while keeping in mind our humble resources, our long-term vision and our fundamental mandate of being an education and support advocacy group for families and individuals who live with autism.

While additional revisions are no longer possible at this time, members are welcome to raise their suggestions on changes to the by-laws for the next general assembly. A member may raise their idea with their chapter leadership, who can then endorse the matter, as a collective, to ASP National. It will be on the chapter to provide substance to support their suggestion's relevance -- not just to their personal circumstance -- but to ASP's general membership.

See you all at the General Assembly!

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Posted in: elections

“Pursuer of Dreams” Workshop held in Imus

ASP-Imus held a watercolor workshop entitled Pursuer of Dreams last September 27, 2014 at the activity center of Robinson's Place in Imus, Cavite. It was attended by 10 CWAs, 7-15 years of age, and their siblings. Most of them came from the Imus Public Sped Centers.

ASP Imus “Pursuer of Dreams” Workshop with paintings

A kind-hearted individual who also has a brother in the Autism Spectrum provided the art materials and snacks for this event. It is one of her dreams to organize a watercolor workshop for CWAs to help them and their siblings express themselves through painting and thereby create a bond between them.

The parents of the participants are very thankful for this opportunity given to their children. They are very proud of their kids for their achievements in that activity.

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Posted in: art,community,regional,therapy

The CBR Congress in the eyes of an ASP Leader

The three-day CBR Congress held on September 30 to October 2 of this year was very much anticipated on my part -- first because of the opportunities it brings in renewing and establishing networks with other advocates and volunteers working with the disability sector; and second, it is the best venue to fully comprehend what Community Based Rehabilitation is all about.

On Day 1, we heard Ms Carmen Zubiaga, the acting Executive Director of the National Council on Disability Affairs, welcoming the more than 300 participants from all over the country to the Second Philippine CBR Congress, whose theme is “CBR: Key to inclusive development in communities.” Proclamation 688 declared the Philippine Decade of Making Rights Real for PWDs – and the NCDA has led the formulation of the Decade Plan of Action in coordination with the national government agencies, the NGOs, and the DPOs.

The speakers emphasized the importance of CBR, which is also one of our legislative agenda in ASP. Clearly CBR is the practical strategy towards empowerment and inclusive development, where all people and every member of the community is respectful of the rights of our PWDs.

According to the World Health Organization, community-based rehabilitation (CBR) focuses on enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities and their families; meeting basic needs; and ensuring inclusion and participation. It is a multi-sectoral strategy that empowers persons with disabilities to access and benefit from education, employment, health and social services. CBR is implemented through the combined efforts of people with disabilities, their families and communities, and relevant government and non-government health, education, vocational, social and other services.

• Relies on community resources
• Emphasizes direct participation of PWD in planning and implementation of actions affecting them
• Highlights the needs for increased collaboration of service providers and involvement of the local politicians
• Promotes identification and referral of people with disability to improve their access to services and participation
• Aims to promote greater participation of PWD in a given territory
• Originated from local development rather than rehabilitation
• Embedded in decentralization system and pays particular importance to the processes of good local governance and inclusive community management

From the keynote message of the Undersecretary of DSWD Ms. Patricia Paraji: the bottomline is to guarantee equitability; the rights of one apply to all, opportunities given to one is enjoyed by all. CBR is inclusive development and while numerous challenges lay ahead, we must work together to ensure inclusivity, where everyone is accepted. Each one has a role to play and a hand to make it work. The CBR Framework is a life changing structure for the growth and development of every member of the community and we must all contribute to its development. The World Disability Report states that people with disabilities are marginalized in many aspects of societies.

• They have generally poorer health, lower education achievement, fewer economic opportunities and higher rates of poverty than people without disability.
• They are more likely to experience greater social isolation and decreased participation in community life.
• They must overcome greater barriers to access services in low income countries.

The global situation now is that 15% of the world population experience disability which is approximately 1 in 7 people. An empowered sector is the foundation of any CBR program. It is implemented through combined efforts of PWDs, their families, their communities, the different organizations and relevant government agencies on health, education, social and livelihood services.

CBR as a strategy must be focused in enhancing the quality of life of PWDs and their families; it is about meeting the basic needs and ensuring inclusion in local communities and improving access to services. With CBR, the PWDs and their family members are leaders in decision making processes. This brings about change in culture and practices, removing the stigma and prejudices that would lead to a deeper understanding of how disability can affect human lives. If it does not empower, it is not CBR.

The last day of the congress was for the election and formation of the CBR Network AdHoc Committee – 13 members for the Interim Board who will work for the immediate future direction of the Philippine Community Based Disability Inclusive Development Network. Coming from the different DPOs and organizations to represent the different regions of our country, one of our very own – Ms Marivic Ramos of ASP Laguna Chapter was elected Board Member as the parent representative of Luzon; the other parent being Ms. Marjorie Gimeno of Parent Mobilization Action Group (PMAG) for the Visayas / Mindanao area.

ASP Officers in CBR Congress

The decade for the rights-based, barrier-free, inclusive society started in 2013 will end on 2022 - and the ASP has always been in the forefront and steadfast in advocating for the basic principle of equality for the autism community….. as the song goes – We are on the right track.

About the contributor: Dr. Anawi A. Tolentino is the Chapter President of ASP Hagonoy, a practicing physician in the field of internal medicine and a hands on Mom to her 18-year old son – Jandell. She is also the administrator of the Supportive Parents of Hagonoy Children with Disability (SPHC) Center whose programs are centered on parent empowerment and providing learning opportunities for CWD.

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Posted in: cbr,chapters,conference,government,leaders

ASP hosts a Relationship Direct Intervention Seminar

The Autism Society Philippines was fortunate to host an RDI seminar last 27 September 2014, with Ms. Renee Dela Cruz. Renee is an autism specialist with 15 years experience, based in Melbourne, Australia. She has a psychology background, is completing a masters/PHD in Autism Studies and is a certified RDI consultant. Renee is skilled in functional behaviour analysis; modification, psychological assessments; diagnosis, and delivering intervention services designed to enhance functioning and quality of life. She assists families to move from diagnosis to active remediation, implementing intervention plans that are tailored to the child's and family’s needs. She guides families to break down complex behaviours, work through anger/anxiety issues, discover opportunities to reestablish developmental milestones and guides parents to develop their child's thinking skills.

Ms. Renee presenting Relationship Development Intervention

Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) is a family-based, behavioral treatment designed to address autism’s core symptoms. Developed by psychologist Steven Gutstein, Ph.D., it builds on the theory that “dynamic intelligence” is key to improving quality of life for individuals with autism. Dr. Gutstein defines dynamic intelligence as the ability to think flexibly. This includes appreciating different perspectives, coping with change and integrating information from multiple sources, e.g. sights and sounds. (Autism Speaks)

Renee discussed how RDI is all about connecting, thinking and growing. The approach teaches children how to be connected with their parents, whether they are verbal or not. She spoke about teaching and behavior modification techniques, as well as many ways to communicate with someone with autism.

I learned that parents play a big role in making people with autism kind, gentle, and warm hearted.

About the contributor: Lloyd Ngo was first an ASP intern when he attended Independent Living and Learning Center. He began working in 2012 as an encoder at the Ongkiko Manhit Custodio and Acorda Law Offices in Makati. He is currently ASP’s Program Assistant for Communications.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,seminar

The Sibling Factor

ASP Sta. Rosa had a simple yet fun time with some of the siblings of its members last 14 September 2014 at the Erolin residence at Tagapo, Sta. Rosa which is currently the registered office address of ASP Sta. Rosa.

Ms. Olive sharing a story of "Spinning"

The activity aimed to help the siblings understand their brother or sister with autism and try activities like shooting rings, following patterns and matching pictures with words that they can play with their siblings. We had story telling and we used the book "Spinning" written by Teacher Irene Sarmiento, written from the perspective of a sibling. Everyone enjoyed the simple but sumptuous merienda and the siblings were given prizes for their participation. This was a way for them to also learn how reward system can make their brother or sister with autism get motivated.

About the Contributor: Olive Medina is mom to CWA Enzo and his baby sister Lizzie. Aside from fulfilling her duties as a wife and mother, she works as General Manager for a logistics company, a part time college lecturer and part time yoga instructor. She is also the president of ASP Sta. Rosa Chapter.

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Posted in: chapters,community,regional,siblings

Disability Inclusive Workplace

Mrs. Carmel C. Almendrala, Trustee of Autism Society Philippines, was a resource speaker in the July 18, 2014 Quezon City PDAO “Public-Private Consultation Forum on the Employment of Persons with Disabilities.” Mrs. Almendrala spoke on the “Employment Situation for Persons with Autism.” The forum was held at the Bulwagang Amoranto of Quezon City Hall main building.

Ms. Carmel with PWD speakers

There were various other speakers from DepEd, DSWD, DOLE, Blue Ribbon Committee of the Philippine Senate, JOB START, Manulife and other disability NGO’s who presented their particular work related to PWDs.

Mrs. Almendrala discussed individual employment of various persons with autism in competitive setting, as well as group employment in different companies plus future possibilities for employment of PWAs.

About the contributor: Carmel C. Almendrala, a former ambassador’s wife and an Ulirang Ina Awardee of 2010, Carmel personifies diplomacy as she faces the world with poise, grace and intelligence. Over the years and in the many countries where their family has had to relocate because of her husband's work, she laboured tirelessly to advocate for her son Michael, now in his 40’s. Serving as Trustee for more than six terms, she reminds young mothers of children with autism: Grab every opportunity and don’t take no for an answer. This is evident in her son Mike, who is a Special Olympian Medalist (who competed in 2005 in powerlifting and in 2013 in bowling), a 2005 Apolinario Mabini Awardee, and an independent member of the community working as an administrative staff of the Philippine Information Agency.

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Posted in: community,employment

ASP hosts “Emergency Skills for Families with Autism”

The Autism Society Philippines conducted a seminar, entitled “Emergency Skills for Families with Autism.” The seminar was held at Conference Room of Philippine Information Agency Visayas Avenue, Quezon City last August 30, 2014, attended by parents and professionals.

Emergency Skills for Families with Autism with Mr. Mark Padil and ASP Officers

The seminar regarding Emergency Skills for Families with Autism was facilitated by Mr. Mark Anthony Padil, founder of the eMergency Autism Response sKills (eMark) Services. Mr. Padil discussed most of the important things that each of individual do when we encounter a disaster whether it is a natural or a man-made disaster. He share to us the important things that we should prepare in case there is an emergency. He shows samples of what’s inside of a disaster supply kit should be. Mr. Padil also demonstrate different kinds of first aid in every type of emergency situation. The demonstration made the participants understand better how important to have a knowledge about first aid especially if there are emergency situation. As Mr. Padil is also an expert in handling children with autism he shares that CWA should also be trained in different kinds of emergency sounds to help them to be calm during emergency situation. He mentioned that as a first aider we should be calm and know the situation first before doing anything.

Participants shared their thoughts about the seminar.

“Very informative, more than a seminar.”

“The speaker is well trained on emergency training for disaster.”

“Excellent training for disaster emergency applicable for PWA.”

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,seminar

ASP Family Support Group for October 2014

ASPs monthly family support group sessions bring together parents, siblings and other family members to talk about their journey in living with autism. Participants share their experiences and draw enlightenment and strength from others going through the same challenges. We welcome members and non-members to this intimate gathering.

Ms. Carmel Almendrala with son Mike

Our facilitator for the October 18 Family Support Group session is Carmel Almendrala, a former ambassador’s wife and an Ulirang Ina Awardee of 2010, Carmel personifies diplomacy as she faces the world with poise, grace and intelligence. Over the years and in the many countries where their family has had to relocate because of her husband's work, she laboured tirelessly to advocate for her son Michael, now in his 40’s. Serving as Trustee for more than six terms, she reminds young mothers of children with autism: Grab every opportunity and don’t take no for an answer. This is evident in her son Mike, who is a Special Olympian Medalist (who competed in 2005 in powerlifting and in 2013 in bowling), a 2005 Apolinario Mabini Awardee, and an independent member of the community working as an administrative staff of the Philippine Information Agency.

ASP Family Support Group

October 18, 2014, Saturday, 1:00 pm -5:00 pm

ASP National Office, Room 307, ML Building No. 47 Kamias Road Quezon City

Map: http://bit.ly/asp-map

Sign up for the Family Support Group below or call 7-903-5496. Only 15 seats are available.

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Posted in: 4parents,fsg

October 25 Saturday Seminar on Music as a Therapy Option

Music as a Therapy Option
9:30am – 12:00pm

Well established as an allied health profession in other countries, Music Therapy has yet to be better known in the Philippines as a therapeutic option. Studies reveal that most individuals with autism spectrum disorder respond positively to music -- making music interventions potentially effective when used within a therapeutic context. Music Therapy can encourage social interactions, increase attention and communication attempts, reduce anxiety and improve body coordination. Our session speaker will share what it is, why and how it works, why it is both an art and science, how it is carried out and benefits individuals with special needs.

Our speaker, Ms. Sol Bautista

Ma. Solinda Garcia-Bautista, a senior management executive and management consultant of 28 years with top global firms, is pursuing Music Therapy graduate studies to provide an extraordinary potent, therapeutic option for families with exceptional children. Inspired by her 20-year-old middle child with autism who grew up with music all around him, Sol is amongst the first batch of graduate students at the St. Paul University Manila College of Music and the Performing Arts, a Center of Excellence for Music pioneering Music Therapy programs in the Philippines.

Sol concurrently gave chase to Business Administration & Accountancy at the University of the Philippines and Music at Sta. Isabel College, delivered her piano graduation recital and garnered eighth place in the CPA boards. She helped transform businesses through technology as a consultant locally and abroad on mission-critical engagements in New York, Chicago, Tokyo and Hong Kong, and as a senior executive for a multinational financial firm. She concertizes when time permits, as a soloist and with her family.

Seminar Details

Pre-reg. *until October 21
Active ASP Member - Free
Non - Member - P600.00

On-Site Registration
Active ASP Member - Free
Non - Member - P700.00

Venue: G/F Lopez Building Meralco Compound Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City
Map: http://bit.ly/1wWFRdv
Seminar Fee is inclusive of certificate, handouts and snacks
For Free registered participants, certificates will cost P200

Pre-registered participants may pay to Autism Society Philippines, Metro Bank, Kamias Branch Account Number 047-3-04751874-2. Please fax your deposit slip to 7-903-5496 or email a scan copy at autismphils@gmail.com 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 50 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 Education and Empowerment Program 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 their own and may not necessarily reflect the views of the organization.

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