STATEMENT OF THE AUTISM SOCIETY PHILIPPINES
The Autism Society Philippines condemns the use of "autistic" and "special child" as verbal ammunition in the on-going political exercise. Within the first two weeks of the campaigning, we have seen disability slurs hurled by supporters on-line as well as by a candidate on-stage at a political rally. We expect leaders to protect vulnerable Filipinos -- not use their disability to ridicule others.
The Autism Society Philippines challenges candidates at all levels to articulate their plans for the improvement of the lives of Filipinos with disabilities and those who care for and love them -- outside the context of charity. We want to support leaders who have spent time as public servants -- listening to those with disabilities and creating sustainable programs for them -- keen on inspiring genuine INCLUSION of those who have been cast to the fringes of society.
The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) is a national, non-profit organization working towards an environment that empowers persons with autism spectrum disorder to become the best of their potentials -- self-reliant, productive and socially-accepted members of the community. ASP labors to establish institutional mechanisms to support persons with autism and their families. Established in 1989, the organization -- composed of 13,000 members spread over 100 chapters nationwide -- has been in the forefront of providing services to families and individuals living on the autism spectrum.
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