ASP Bacoor Chapter delegates to AAFG honored

ASP Bacoor Chapter delegates to the ASEAN Autism Friendship Games were honored with certificates of recognition from Bacoor City Hall last 18 January 2016, given by Mayor Strike Revilla and Congresswoman Lanie Mercado Revilla.

Autism Friendship Games Group

Through the team’s participation, talents, skills and sportsmanship of our CWAs in athletic field were showcased. Recognizing ASP Bacoor CWA’s skills is a leap for our cause, showing Bacooreños that given a chance, CWA’s can and will excel in different fields. Appreciating their achievements cemented the idea that with acceptance and support CWAs can and will become a pride for the City of Bacoor.

About the contributor: Rowena “Weng” Lagarde is the current president of ASP Bacoor chapter and a single mom of an 11 yr. old CWA, Owen Cerilla. Being a parent to a CWA made her more grounded in life. Having Owen made her see little details rather than seeing the big picture as a whole. A blessing not only to her but to her family, bonding her and her brothers as they stand as father figures to her son.

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Posted in: aafg,awards,chapters,regional,sports

ASP Angels Walk for Autism in Puerto Princesa

With the theme “Onwards Toward an Autism-OK Philippines” in celebration of the Autism Week, around 700 people had gathered at the Robinson’s Place Palawan last 23 January 2016.

Spearheaded by the Autism Society Philippines Puerto Princesa and the Social Work Society of Palawan State University, the parade started at Junction 2 San Pedro and snaked to Robinson’s Place Palawan.

ASP Puerto Princesa Angels Walk

The participants included Taw Kabui for a Child, Puerto Princesa Pilot Elementary School, Salve Regina School, City Social Welfare Office-Person with Disabilities, Social Work Society of Palawan State University, and the Junior Social Workers Association of the Philippines of Western Philippines University.

The program started with an opening prayer given by Ms. Kayce Esteban, a 4th year Social Work student that was followed by the singing of the national anthem conducted by Ms. Hannah Mae Del Valle, a 1st year Social work student. To formally open the program, Professor Cymbeline S. Martinez – the Autism Society PPC Chapter President gave a message welcoming everyone that afternoon and thanking everyone for their presence. Afterwards, couple of intermission numbers from each school was given. Students from Salve Regina School danced in the beat of Uptown Funk. Meanwhile, the students of Pilot Elementary School sung the On the Wings of Love that the crowd found to be so entertaining. The two intermissions were succeeded by a fashion show from the ten students of Taw Kabui for a Child Inc.

That aimed to present the accessories that were made of papers. The said accessories were
artworks of the parents of the children. During the fashion show, a hat was passed around that
served as the fund raising for the project.

The event was also the awarding day for the winners of the painting contest that was held in the pre-mentioned school (Salve Regina, Pilot Elementary, and Taw Kabui). The student from the Taw Kabui for a Child bagged the 1st place, 2nd place from the Pilot School and the 3rd place from Salve Regina. In recognition to them, each was given a medal.

Afterwards, a pledge of giving importance to people with autism was led by Prof. Martinez that signifies the participation of the delegates from the different schools that very afternoon in the advocacy of an Autism Ok Society.

The last intermission number was given by the Social Work Society Dancers. Finally, Ms. Elaine Mir L. Pascua, the Social Work Society-PSU President sealed the program by thanking everyone for coming and recognizing the help given by the NCCC Cares Foundation, Pilipinas Shell Foundation and Robinson’s Place Palawan.

About the Contributor: Elaine Pascua is a student of Palawan State University taking up BS Social Work. She is also the President of Social Work Society of PSU.

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Posted in: chapters,nacw,regional

Tanom Para Sa Kaakian: A Tree Planting Activity For PWDs in Naga City

Trees are essential gift from Almighty God to the people of Earth. They provide many benefits to everyone such as shield against typhoon, heat from the sun, shelter for animals, food, medicines, clothing, many more. As one of the major beneficiaries it is just right that we must take good care of them.

Tree Planting Activity

Last 24 January 2016 at Sitio Caromatig Carolina, Naga City in cooperation with the PDAO- Naga City, Local Government Unit of Naga City, Metro Naga Water District, BISCAST, Naga Central School II-SPED Center, UNC SPED Majors, and ASP- Naga City Chapter Officers and Members had tree planting as the culminating activity for the 20th Autism Consciousness Week Celebration which main advocacy is to uplift societal awareness, participation, and acceptance in the community.

One hundred participants planted more than 200 fruit bearing seedlings of different tree varieties. The participants expressed their joy over being caretakers of Mother Earth. Persons with autism and their families are engaged in the community and advocating for causes beyond our disability.

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Posted in: chapters,community,regional

Onwards to an Autism-OK Ormoc

Last 22 January 2016, the Autism Society Philippines Ormoc City Chapter held the annual ASP Angels Walk for Autism. The walk started at Ormoc New City Hall at 3 o'clock in the afternoon. The participants included St.Therese of Little Flower, Ormoc SPED Center, Ormoc City Central School, St. Immaculate School, Jesus Kids and Pedia Care. Private partners like Ormoc Credit Cooperative Inc (OCCI), City Saving Bank, the Rotary Club, the Ormoc Supreme Lions Club and the CSWD employees also joined the advocacy event.

ASP Ormoc Angels Walk

After the parade, the participants arrived at City Plaza stage. The program started with an opening prayer followed by a ZUMBA dance. Ormoc SPED Center Principal Mrs. Pia Chu gave the welcome message. CSWD Head Mrs. Marietta Legazpi gave the inspirational message followed a song number from CWA pupils from SPED. ASP Ormoc President Engr. Generoso P. Managbanag delivered the closing remarks.

About the contributor. Engr. Generoso P. Managbanag served as the ASP Ormoc Chapter President since 2011.

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Posted in: angels-walk,chapters,regional

ASP Tacloban Chapter celebrates Autism Consciousness Week

The National Autism Consciousness Week commemoration in Tacloban, which kicked off last 17 January 2016, was a great success. The kick off program, the Angels Walk for Autism, the Art Exhibit and series of seminar workshops -- the commemoration did not only bring awareness but also much needed education of parents, professionals and the public on concerns of persons with autism.

Autism Word Display of ASP Tacloban

Most importantly, the children and adults with autism had their chance to shine. They showcased their talents during the opening program at Robinson's Place which brought entertainment and fun. I felt blessed to have had the opportunity to share my knowledge and experiences as a SPED Teacher.

By Alyna Ira Santiago-Nebrija

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Posted in: angels-walk,chapters,nacw,regional

ASP Angels Walk for Autism in Naga

ASP Naga commemorated the 20th National Autism Consciousness Week with the Angels Walk for Autism last 17 January 2016. There was a nationwide synchronized advocacy campaign driven by ASP National and ASP Naga was in full support!

ASP Naga Angels Walk

ASP Naga partnered with Naga PDAO headed by Mr. Christopher S. Molin, the Local government Unit of Naga City headed by Hon. John G. Bongat, and SM City Naga to bring this event to life. The participants were from the different places in Bicol Region such as Pili SPED Center, Causip Elementary School, Calabanga Pilot School, BISCAST, USI SPED Majors, UNC SPED Majors, Ateneo SPED Majors, KIDSPOT Learning Center, HELP Learning Center, San Rafael SPED Center, Parochial School, St. Joseph School, Julian B. Meliton Elementary School, Naga Central School II- SPED Center and other PWD organizations.

The participants in green shirts started walking at around 8:00 in the morning from Plaza Quezon to SM City of Naga. A holy mass followed after the walk; and the children with autism were blessed by the priest. A short program was prepared by the ASP Naga City Chapter, through the efforts of Miss Edwina Oco, Rona M. Saulon. Mr. Santos Braga, and the rest of the officers of ASP Naga City Chapter. The different participating schools showed the talents of their pupils. The Heart at Play Foundation headed by Anna Rivera led the kids in therapeutic dance. The participants delivered the 1Pangako oath to be an advocates for children with autism.

This activity was successful due to the different people who cared, loved, and understand the world of families who live with autism. We hope the advocates will multiply and help us work towards an Autism-OK Philippines!

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Posted in: angels-walk,chapters,regional

ASP’s Dang Koe elected as new AAN Chairman

The executive committee of the ASEAN Autism Network (AAN) elected Dang Koe, Autism Society Philippines’ Chair Emeritus, as its new Chairman during its General Assembly held last 16 January 2016 at the Mabuhay Manor in Pasay.

The new officers of the ASEAN Autism Network

AAN is composed of autism family advocates from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines. The Asia Pacific Center on Disability (APCD) helped organize this network in 2010, envisioned to lead the efforts to realize the rights of persons with autism in the ASEAN nations.

APCD Executive Director Akiie Ninomiya, himself a father of an adult with autism, congratulated ASP leaders for their passion and relentless commitment in working towards the realization of the rights of persons with autism. In his message during Angels Walk, he said APCD recognizes that “there is still a lack of laws, programs, services and professionals to respond to the needs of persons with autism in Southeast Asia but with the ASEAN integration the opportunity of sharing knowledge, information and resources among member countries would facilitate the resolution to collectively work together to address these issues.” With ASP’s leadership starting this year, he expects member countries to collectively advocate for the rights of persons with autism from an ASEAN perspective. “Each member of AAN must go beyond its country boundaries and work collectively as the ASEAN Autism Network.”

At the Angels Walk lean banner, SM VP Bien Mateo, NCDA Executive Director Carmen Zubiaga, ASP President Mona Magno-Veluz, Senator Sonny Angara, APCD Executive Director Akiie Ninomiya, SM Prime President Hans Sy, AAN Chair Dang Koe and ASEAN Deputy Secretary General HE Dr. AKP Mochtan

The chairmanship of AAN was turned over from outgoing AAN Chairman Malai Hj Abdullah Bin Hj Malai Othman of Brunei to ASP’s Dang Koe in a brief turn-over ceremony on 17 January 2016 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, witnessed by 15,000 participants of Angels Walk -- Philippine government officials, representatives of the government of Southeast Asian countries, business organizations like SM, PWD organizations, civil service organizations, participants from schools and therapy centers, families of persons with autism, delegates from AAN member countries.

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Posted in: aan,asean,international,intl

The ASP Resource Directory 2016

The Autism Society Philippines Resource Directory is a listing of establishments providing services and products for families who live with autism. It is a nationwide listing that has helped many families since the first edition was released.

ASP Resource Directory 2013

Register to be included in the ASP 2016 Resource Directory, if you are an Autism-OK organization, institution or individual with products and services that can benefit persons with autism and their families, such as ...
... a school or therapy center
... a medical, dental or allied medical clinic
... a professional in private practice
... a business with PWA-targeted products and services -- hair salons, swimming classes, among others.

ASP reserves the right to request for a scanned copy of your business permit or Professional Regulation Commission ID -- to be emailed to autismphils@gmail.com.

There is NO FEE to be included in the ASP Resource Directory. We simply want to help ASP members find partners and businesses who will be sensitive to our needs. Full page advertisements are also available for interested parties.

ASP members who have had a positive experience with Autism-OK establishments are also requested to recommend them for inclusion in this listing.

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Posted in: publication

Taytay celebrates International Day for PWDs

The Office of the Mayor, MSWD together with the Persons with Disability Affairs Office of Taytay Municipality celebrated the International Day for PWD last 8 January 2016 in SM Event Center, Taytay, Rizal. This momentous occasion was attended by students, professionals and government officials with the theme: "I Belong." SPED teachers from different public and private schools all over Taytay were given tribute and recognition for whole-heartedly teaching students with special needs. The president of the newly formed ASP Taytay Chapter, Mrs. Barbara De Guzman was able to promote the Angel's Walk to an audience of 400 persons. She also took the opportunity to inform the schools that there is already an ASP Chapter in Taytay, Rizal.

ASP Taytay International Day Group

About the contributor: Rhea Joy "Yhang" Policarpio from Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, her ministry is for the children with Special Needs as a SPED Coordinator at Golden Faith Academy, Taytay, Rizal. She is a deaconess (Church Worker) of the United Methodist Church before pursuing her studies in Special Education. She had the experience of working with NGOs for Commercial Sex Workers in Baguio City and Street Children in Tondo, Manila though she can say that SPED is the closest to her heart and her passion. She loves to meet new people and build network from public and private institution to advocate for the welfare of children with special needs.

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Posted in: chapters,government

Message from Speaker Feliciano R. Belmonte Jr.

The following is the message from Speaker of the House of Representatives Feliciano Belmonte Jr. to the Autism Society Philippines for the 20th National Autism Consciousness Week.

Sonny Belmonte

I join the Autism Society of the Philippines and the 1.2 million Filipinos with autism and their families in celebrating the Philippines National Autism Consciousness Week.

The inspiration we draw from various initiatives that promote integration of people with autism (PWAs) enables leaders in the government and private sector alike to take into consideration the distinct needs of PWAs in policy making and programs we espouse. We make sure that they are afforded their civil rights and the protection mandated by the laws of our land. We share the commitment to give them human dignity and equality in economic opportunities which they rightfully deserve.

As we march towards the renewal of this collective aspiration, I call on various sectors of society to do their share in making our communities more adaptive and sensitive to the distinct interests of PWAs. Congratulations to the ASP and may you continue to be the champion of PWAs in advancing their welfare.

Mabuhay po kayo!

Feliciano R. Belmonte Jr.
Speaker of the House of Representative
Republic of the Philippines

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Posted in: government,nacw

Message from Senate President Franklin M. Drilon

The following is the message from Senate President Franklin M. Drilon to the Autism Society Philippines for the 20th National Autism Consciousness Week.

My warmest greetings to officers, members and supporters of the Autism Society Philippines as you celebrate the National Autism Consciousness Week 2016.

It is laudable that the Autism Society Philippines has started to primarily raise awareness of children with autism and children with special needs, Today, the availability of various programs for children with special needs to help them become productive and successful in life is attributed to the efforts of your organization.

The "Angels Walk for Autism" is a beginning to transform views, and a step to engage the community to work together to provide help and services to people who need them. I am certain that your activity will be able to raise awareness on children with autism, and on the need to provide opportunities for our special children to contribute to the society to the best of their abilities.

I wish you all a successful and meaningful celebration.

Mabuhay po kayong lahat!

Franklin M. Drilon
President of the Senate of the Philippines
Republic of the Philippines

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Posted in: government,nacw

ASP Taytay Chapter Orientation

The newly formed ASP Taytay Chapter had its One-Day Orientation Seminar for the elected officers and members last 7 January 2016 at Golden Faith Academy in Taytay, Rizal. Ms. Mary Janette Peña, ASP Board of trustee and ASP Damariñas Chapter President facilitated the seminar. Ms. Josefina Olorocisimo, Focal Person of Persons With Disability Affairs Office of Taytay, Rizal attended the seminar and expressed the support of PDAO to ASP Taytay Chapter. The chapter officers and members were motivated to actively organize and participate in the advocacy of Autism Society Philippines for PWA's in the municipality of Taytay.

ASP Taytay Orientation Group

About the contributor: Rhea Joy "Yhang" Policarpio from Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, her ministry is for the children with Special Needs as a SPED Coordinator at Golden Faith Academy, Taytay, Rizal. She is a deaconess (Church Worker) of the United Methodist Church before pursuing her studies in Special Education. She had the experience of working with NGOs for Commercial Sex Workers in Baguio City and Street Children in Tondo, Manila though she can say that SPED is the closest to her heart and her passion. She loves to meet new people and build network from public and private institution to advocate for the welfare of children with special needs.

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Posted in: chapters,regional

Message from Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III

The following is the message of President Benigno S. Aquino III to the Autism Society Philippines for the 20th National Autism Consciousness Week.

Benigno Aquino III

My warmest greetings to the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) as you spearhead the observance of National Autism Consciousness Week.

We are one with the ASP in raising awareness about autism in the Philippines. The success of our collective effort to assist those with special needs greatly increases if their loved ones, as well as our citizenry, are educated, and if we provide access to crucial health and support services. May the events and activities that you have lined up to more attention towards this segment of our society, and realize the inclusive and compassionate nation that we aspire for our people.

As the promise of a brighter tomorrow motivates us to sustain our resurgence, we will need partners to distribute the fruits we are now harvesting along the straight and righteous path. Let us work together to ensure that our present revitalization will benefit all, so that no Filipino will be left behind on our journey towards a better and more progressive future.

I wish you a meaningful celebration.

H.E. Benigno S. Aquino
President
Republic of the Philippines

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Posted in: government,nacw

Seminar on the ABCs of ABA for February 27

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one of the most basic, evidence-based best practices for autism. Ms. Gina Bermudo explains the principles and techniques of ABA in the simplest of terms so participants will be able to understand and apply it not only for their special needs children/students but for all children. The seminar will also provide participants opportunities to practice the techniques while they are being explained. This is one training that should not be missed.

Ms. Gina Bermudo

About the Speaker:
ASP Trustee Gina Luna Bermudo is a graduate of Ateneo de Manila University with a Degree in BS Mathematics, Major in Computer Science and is currently taking her Masters Degree in Special Education at the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.

A former International Flight Attendant, Gina is 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 (20) and Xandi (17).

She is a frequent resource person for Autism Awareness, airline and airport sensitivity training to improve service for passengers with autism, Learning Disabilities and other related topics. Gina is also an Applied Behavioral Analysis practitioner and conducts an ABA Seminar Workshop to different private schools and universities.

Seminar Fees
Pre-reg *until February 19
ASP Member - P800
Non-member - P1000

Seminar Details
Topic: The ABCs of ABA
Date: 27 February 2016, Saturday
Time: 8:00AM - 4:00PM
Venue: ASP National Headquarters, #9 11th Jamboree Street cor. Sct. Fuentabella, Brgy. Sacred Heart, Kamuning, Quezon City
Map: http://bit.ly/1LwgklB

Pre-registered participants may pay to Autism Society Philippines, Metrobank, Kamias Branch Account Number 047-3-04751874-2. Please email the scan copy of your deposit slip with the name/s of participant/s and contact numbers to autismphils@gmail.com and bring it on the day of the seminar. We will not accept onsite registrants. There will only be 40 slots available. No refund will be given to participants who do 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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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,seminar

ASP Family Support Group for February 2016

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.

Peng with Patrick and Angelo

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 graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University in 2013) 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.

Date: February 20, Saturday
Time: 1:00PM-4:00PM
Venue: Autism Society Philippines National Headquarters
Address: #9 11th Jamboree Street cor. Sct. Fuentabella Barangay Sacred Heart, Kamuning, Quezon City
Map: http://bit.ly/1LwgklB

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

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Posted in: fsg

The new ASP Tagbilaran Chapter springs hope for autism in Bohol

The ASP Tagbilaran Chapter, a pioneering autism support group in the province of Bohol, was formally launched on 30 December 2015 with the induction of its founding officers at Reyna’s Haven and Garden in Tagbilaran City.

The first elected officers inducted by Barangay Cogon Chairman Nicanor Besas, are: Darlene Sangueza-Cano, President; Luis Lanzaderas, Vice President; Mildred Patac, Secretary; Cherry May Odal, Treasurer; Angelita Ayco, Auditor; Ana Marie Dajao and Marites Siga, Press Relation Officers; and Teodoro Dano, Jr. and Alex Oclarit, Sergeants-at-Arms.

ASP Tagbilaran Elections

A short talk on autism awareness, ASP and empowerment of autism parents by ASP Trustee and founding member Ms. Cecile Sicam, highlighted the launching event aptly themed ‘Hope for Autism.’

The half-day event was also fellowship of sorts where autism parents took turns sharing their personal experiences about having a child with autism spectrum disorder.

Initiated by therapy centers in the city the Building Bridges Therapy Center led Ms. Muffy Lucas, BrainGate Developmental School led by Ms. MaJo Ann P. Alagcan, Stimulation and Therapeutic Activity Center (STAC) Bohol led by Mr. Gligen F. Nistal, ASP Tagbilaran starts with a small but strong group of 23 autism parents, therapists, and friends of autism.

ASP Tagbilaran Chapter President Darlene Sangueza-Cano says their group has already lined up some activities for 2016. She also hopes more parents and institutions will join their group, especially that autism is still largely misunderstood in Bohol.

ASP Tagbilaran aspires to the a long-standing beacon of hope, not only for better understanding on autism and improved well-being of persons with autism and their families, but also for improved education on and services for developmental disabilities in Bohol.

This article was contributed by Ms. Liza Macalandag.

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Posted in: chapters,regional