The world commemorates the United Nations Public Service Day on June 23, 2025. We celebrate the individuals whose dedication to the common good helps shape more inclusive and compassionate societies. Among them are public servants who bring not only professional expertise but also personal insight into the lives of persons on the autism spectrum. Whether they are parents or individuals on the autism spectrum themselves, their lived experiences drive meaningful change in the way the government serves the disability community.
Today, we shine a light on five remarkable individuals whose service and advocacy are helping build a world where everyone belongs.
Mike Almendrala, civil servant on the autism spectrum. Mike is an example of ability, perseverance, and public service. He made waves as a medalist at the Special Olympics Asia-Pacific Games in 2013. He also serves as a regular employee of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). Through his decades-long service, he has contributed to increased representation of autism in public service.
Debbie Dacanay, Quezon City Persons with Disability Affairs (PDAO) Chief, and mom to a child on the spectrum. Debbie enriches the lives of persons with disabilities in her city through her work. Her efforts honor achievers, help the economically vulnerable, and link government with the private sector to inspire inclusive economic empowerment.
Randy Calsena, National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) Regional Programs Coordinator and Programs Management Division OIC, and a dad to a child on the spectrum. Randy helped create training to assist local government officials in establishing local Persons with Disabilities Affairs Offices, as well as policies and programs that address the development needs of persons with disabilities using a community-based, inclusive development (CBID) strategy. His efforts have strengthened local disability-inclusive governance, promoting consistency, capacity building, and accessibility nationwide.
Laarni Roque, Congressional Representative of the 4th District of Bukidnon, and a mom to a child on the autism spectrum. Laarni authored house bills proposing tax deductions for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities, and a nationwide comprehensive program for accessible and affordable early‑detection and intervention services.
Laila de Lima, Partylist Representative, and a mother and grandmother to men on the autism spectrum. Leila, during her tenure as Secretary of Justice (2010–2015), championed the creation of assistance desks for people with disabilities (PWDs) in all prosecution offices and halls of justice, creating a disability-friendly justice system. As a Senator, she supported legal reforms that showed a commitment to dignity, access, and legal empowerment for the disability sector.
From top left, clockwise, Mike Almendrala, Debbie Dacanay, Randy Calsena, Leila de Lima and Laarni Roque. (Image Credits: Autism Society Philippines, Philippine Sports Commission, Senator Leila de Lima, Wikipedia)
Their intimate understanding of disability goes beyond policy—it’s rooted in real-life challenges, joys, and everyday victories. This perspective enables them to identify gaps in services, champion accessibility, and design programs that are truly responsive to the needs of neurodivergent individuals and their families.
These public servants know that inclusion isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a continuous commitment to equity, dignity, and opportunity. Through their work in education, healthcare, social welfare, and local governance, they bridge the divide between bureaucracy and humanity. Their advocacy reminds us that when public service is guided by empathy and informed by lived experience, it becomes a powerful force for social justice.
