The Angels Walk for Autism 2026 Shirts Available Now!

As we prepare for the highly anticipated Angels Walk for Autism 2026, we are pleased to announce that the official event shirts are now on sale. Show your support for the advocacy and help advance the vision of an Autism-OK Philippines by proudly wearing your Angels Walk for Autism 2026 shirt. 

Angels Walk for Autism 2026 Shirts

To ensure your purchase is authentic and directly supports the cause, we encourage everyone to buy the official event shirts only through our authorized Lazada and Shopee stores. These are the only official online platforms where you can purchase genuine Angels Walk for Autism merchandise.

By buying from our official channels, you help guarantee the quality of your shirt and directly support the programs and initiatives of the Autism Society Philippines. Please be aware that unauthorized sellers may offer similar merchandise. We strongly advise against purchasing from them, as this compromises the integrity of the event and diverts much-needed support from the true cause.

How to Get Your Official Angels Walk for Autism Shirt:

1. Visit Our Official Lazada and Shopee Shops: Head to our official stores on Lazada and Shopee to browse and purchase your exclusive Angels Walk for Autism shirts.

Lazada: https://bit.ly/awalkshirt2026lazada

Shopee: https://bit.ly/awalkshirt2026shopee

2. Choose Your Size: Select the size that fits you best. We offer a variety of sizes to suit your preferences.

3. Place Your Order Securely: Complete your order through the official platforms, knowing that your purchase supports the advocacy and the Autism Society Philippines directly.

4. Spread the Word: Share the links to our Lazada and Shopee shops with your friends and family, so they too can purchase authentic shirts and support the cause.

Join us in making a difference with the Angels Walk for Autism 2026 by wearing your official shirt with pride. Get your free tickets for the Angels Walk for Autism here: https://bit.ly/angelswalk2026

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Posted in: 4members,4public,awalk

Smart Tech, Safe Choices for Autism Families

by Mona Magno-Veluz

Safer Internet Day has grown into a global movement observed in nearly 170 countries since its launch in 2004. It reminds us that the internet should be a place of opportunity, not harm. On February 10, 2026, Safer Internet Day focuses on the theme “Smart tech, safe choices – Exploring the safe and responsible use of AI.”

For Filipinos on the autism spectrum and their families in the Philippines, this conversation is especially important. While technology can be a powerful tool for learning, self-expression, and connection, it can also magnify risks -- particularly around the safety of minors, health misinformation, online conflict, and "complaints" made public to damage reputations.

This Safer Internet Day, we pause to ask: How do we engage meaningfully online while staying safe, ethical, and empowered?

For Parents And Caregivers: Keeping Children On The Spectrum Safe

Children on the spectrum may take things literally, trust easily, or struggle with online nuance. Guidance must be practical, calm, and continuous. Techniques must grow as the child matures.

1. Limit screentime. Social media accounts are meant for older children, ideally 15 years old and older. According to the Child Mind Institute, "parents should also be aware of the risks of screen use, such as addiction, decreased focus, sleep problems, and bullying or scamming."(1) Find the right balance.

2. Talk about online behavior early and often. Explain that not everything online is true, and not everyone online is kind. Use real examples, but avoid fear-based language. Focus on safety and self-respect. Internet Matter[dot]org recommends the use of online safety tools and parental controls for children, like Google Family Link and Microsoft Family "to set screen time limits, see what games they’re playing and how long they’re online.” (2) Parental controls on platforms like TikTok are designed to inspire healthy conversations on online boundaries between teens and parents.

3. Explain online legal risks in simple terms. Help your child understand that posting unverified accusations or repeating rumors online can hurt others and can have serious legal consequences. Teach them that concerns should be brought to trusted adults or proper authorities, not aired online. RA 10627 or the "Anti-Bullying Law" (3) protects school children, while RA 10175 or the "Cybercrime Prevention Act" (4) gives broad protections against scamming, cyberlibel, privacy leaks, among technology-centric crimes.

4. Watch out for dishonest content. Deepfake voices, fake screenshots, or incomplete information can confuse even adults. Show children how technology, when used in bad faith, can create things that look real but aren’t. Encourage them to ask before sharing. Agree on rules for posting, commenting, and private messaging. These should be about protection, not control. Autism Awareness Australia reminds us: "Don’t assume that your child/teenager has digital literacy simply because they use technology often." (5)

5. Do not use your children for your social media content. Parent accounts meant to share one's ASD journey should NOT include the faces of their children, who cannot give INFORMED consent. Children with disabilities have the right to privacy. This is enshrined in Article 22 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. (6)

For Self-Advocates: Engaging Online With Confidence And Care

The internet can be a lifeline, especially for autistic individuals who find clarity and comfort in digital spaces. But smart engagement also means knowing your rights and protecting yourself. Being comfortable with technology doesn’t automatically mean someone understands how to use it wisely, safely, or responsibly.

1. Pause before posting or responding online. Social media platforms are designed to reward speed, emotional reactions, and high engagement, which can encourage impulsive responses. Before replying to heated or scandalous posts, take a moment to ask: Is this factual? Is it necessary? Is it safe for me? You are not obligated to respond to everything you see. Thoughtful pauses help protect your well-being and reduce the spread of harm or misinformation.

2. Know the difference between criticism and libel. In the Philippines, making false statements online that harm a person’s reputation may be considered libel under the law. Posts intended to shame, accuse, or harass (especially when unsupported by credible evidence) can have serious legal and personal consequences. If you encounter such content, it is safer to disengage, document what you see, and avoid retaliation. Protecting yourself online also means choosing restraint and accountability.

3.  Use AI as a tool, not a truth source. AI can be helpful for drafting ideas, organizing thoughts, or learning new concepts, but it does not guarantee accuracy. AI systems may produce outdated, incomplete, or incorrect information, especially when discussing real people, events, or sensitive issues. Always double-check facts using reliable sources before sharing or acting on AI-generated content.

4. Curate your digital space. Using features like mute, block, and report is not a sign of weakness. It is an act of self-care. These tools help protect your mental health by limiting exposure to harassment, misinformation, or distressing content. You have the right to decide who has access to you online and what kind of interactions you allow. Creating a respectful digital environment supports your well-being and enables healthier, more meaningful engagement.

5. Protect your personal information. Be mindful of what you share online, including personal details such as your full name, address, school, daily routines, or private struggles. Not everyone online has good intentions, even if they seem friendly or supportive at first. It’s okay to keep parts of your life private and to say no to conversations that feel uncomfortable. Setting clear boundaries helps keep you safe and gives you more control over your online experiences.

A Rights-Based Approach To Digital Citizenship

Safer Internet Day is not about restricting access. It is about empowerment. Youth on the autism spectrum have the same rights as anyone else to participate online, express opinions, and build communities. Parents also have the right to share their life journey online. But with these rights come responsibilities: to avoid harm and to choose ethical, legal pathways to enjoy digital citizenship.

In an age when online call-outs and reputational attacks are often used instead of legal due process, digital citizenship means choosing accountability over outrage, truth over virality, and dialogue over damage.

This Safer Internet Day 2026, let’s commit to building online spaces where voices are heard without fear, where AI is used responsibly, and where online posts educate, entertain, and inspire, never harm.

Mona Magno-Veluz serves as the National Spokesperson of the Autism Society Philippines and a Smart Parenting Gamechangers 2025 Awardee for Inclusion. She is a mom to three kids, with her eldest, Carl, on the autism spectrum. Her passion propels her to write and talk publicly about disability inclusion, digital media literacy, and family history research. Find her on Instagram @mightymagulang.

REFERENCES

(1) https://childmind.org/article/screens-and-neurodivergent-kids/
(2) https://www.internetmatters.org/hub/parent-stories/how-to-talk-online-safety-with-autistic-children/
(3) https://www.respicio.ph/commentaries/school-bullying-laws-in-the-philippines 

(4) https://www.respicio.ph/bar/2025/criminal-law/special-penal-laws/cybercrime-prevention-act-of-2012-ra-no-10175
(5) https://www.autismawareness.com.au/navigating-autism/autism-and-cyber-safety
(6) https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/convention-rights-persons-disabilities

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Posted in: 4public

The Angels Walk for Autism 2026

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) will hold the annual Angels Walk for Autism on April 26, 2026, at the iconic Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. This FREE event remains a powerful symbol of hope and unity for the autism community, bringing together individuals, families, and advocates to show their collective support for those on the autism spectrum.

Moore than just a walk, the Angels Walk for Autism is a celebration of progress and a continuing movement to build an Autism-OK Philippines. Since its launch in 2000, the walk has grown into a powerful platform that showcases the talents and achievements of individuals on the autism spectrum, while advancing public awareness, encouraging private sector participation, and advocating for the inclusion of autism-related initiatives in national social development policies.

As the event continues to grow, so does its impact—becoming a source of pride for the autism community and a meaningful opportunity to highlight the importance of inclusion, acceptance, and equal opportunities for all. The Angels Walk for Autism remains a driving force for positive change, helping shape a society where persons on the autism spectrum are understood, valued, and supported to reach their full potential.

Today, the Autism Society Philippines stands as a beacon of hope, with more than 16,000 members across 106 chapters in the Philippines, and in communities throughout the ASEAN region and beyond.

With over 30,000 expected participants—families, professionals, and supporters from various sectors—the Angels Walk for Autism will kick off at the Mall of Asia Arena, ending at the SM MOA Music Hall.

Get your FREE tickets here: bit.ly/angelswalk2026-tickets
One registered email address can order multiple times, maximum of 10 tickets per order. Spread the word and join us at the Angels Walk for Autism 2026. Together, we can make a difference! Show your support for an Autism-OK Philippines by proudly wearing the official event shirt. Purchase your shirts from authorized @autismphils shops to ensure your contribution directly supports the cause.

Lazada: https://bit.ly/awalkshirt2026lazada

Shopee: https://bit.ly/awalkshirt2026shopee

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Posted in: 4public,angels-walk,awalk

ASP FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FOR FEBRUARY 2026

Date: 7 February 2026, Saturday

Time: 10:00 AM

Register here to get the Zoom link: https://bit.ly/49NV8Z2

Registration deadline: 6 February 2026, Friday at 12 noon

The Autism Society Philippines’ Family Support Group sessions bring together parents, siblings, and other family members to share their journey of living with autism. Participants exchange experiences, drawing strength and insight from others facing similar challenges.

The Autism Society Philippines, together with this month’s host, ASP Butuan, welcomes both members and non-members united by the shared experience of autism. Our goal is to educate, empower, and inspire as we work towards building an Autism-OK Philippines.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

If you have not received your Zoom credentials by 1:00 PM on 6 February 2026 (Friday), please email us at autismphils@gmail.com. Please do not share your Zoom link. Only one device per registered name will be accepted.

Our Moderators:

Jane Ann S. Gonzales is a retired public servant and mother to a young adult on the autism spectrum. Formerly affiliated with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, she is currently the Program Director and Co-Owner of ILLC Davao Inc., a school that champions inclusive education, job readiness, and work placement. She helped establish the ASP Davao Chapter in 1995 and has since served as a resource speaker on autism parenting and advocacy.

Hazel Chan is the mother of an adult on the autism spectrum, Cliff Anthony, who is now 31 years old. She is a nurse by profession and also a businesswoman. She is the current President of ASP Butuan.

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Posted in: 4family,fsg

Autism Society Philippines HOMEpowerment Program 2026 Batch 1

Napakaraming impormasyon, paraan ng pagtuturo na makukuha sa internet at sa mga seminar tungkol sa autismo. Ngunit kadalasan, nakakalula at hindi natin ito magawa sa ating mga tahanan.

Kaya’t ang Autism Society Philippines ay muling maglulunsad ng Homepowerment Program – na hindi lamang magbibigay ng kaalaman sa mga epektibong paraan ng pagtuturo sa ating mga anak sa bahay, magbibigay din ng indibidwal na gabay sa magulang at tagapag-alaga kung paano ito i-akma sa sarili nilang anak.

Layunin ng ASP Homepowerment Program ang mabigyan ng kakayahan ang mga pamilya, lalo na yung walang access sa regular na therapy na gumawa ng kaukulang intervention ang anak sa bahay.

Ang Homepowerment Program ay nagbibigay ng:
● training para sa mga magulang at taga pag-alaga ng mga batang may ASD
● libreng Occupational at Speech and Language assessment at Home Program sa mga kwalipikadong pamilya
● gabay (individualized parent mentoring) sa pagpapatupad ng Home Program.

Ang mga Training, mentoring at therapy ay gagawin online.

Sino ang mga maaaring sumali sa Homepowerment Program?

Lahat ng regular na miyembro ng ASP ay maaaring sumali sa online trainings at workshops.
Kinakailangang may malakas na signal ng internet sa lugar nila. Maaaring magpahiram ang ASP ng prepaid modem sa mga piling pamilya na walang postpaid internet sa bahay.

Para sa libreng OT at ST assessment at Home Program, maaaring sumali:
● mga anak ng regular members ng ASP na may diagnosis ng ASD
● bibigyan ng prayoridad ang mga batang 8-gulang pababa (as of January 2026)
● ang mga magulang ay nakadalo sa lahat ng training sessions at nagawa ang mga assignment sa workshop.

Para mag-apply sa Homepowerment Program, sundan ang link na ito at ibigay ang mga hinihinging  impormasyon. Hintayin ang email o’ mensahe mula sa ASP. 

Madalas tanungin:

Sino ang maaaring sumali sa mga training workshops?
Ang  training workshops ay bukas sa lahat ng regular na miyembro ng ASP anumang edad ng kanilang anak may autismo. Bagamat nakatuon ang training modules sa early intervention programs, maaaring makatulong pa rin sa lahat ng edad ang mga stratehiyang tatalakayin.

Ang mga dumalo sa mga training ay bibigyan ng pagkakataong magtanong at makatuklas ng nauukol na estratehiya na makakatulong tugonan ang ilang pangangailangan ng kanilang anak.

Kung nais lumahok sa training ay mag-register dito (https://form.jotform.com/202191473333449) para mabigyan ng schedule at link sa training. Ang registration period ay mula Enero 20 hanggang Pebrero 10, 2026 lamang.

Ilan at kailan ginagawa ang mga training?
May hindi kukulangin sa 10 modules ang training-workshops. Ang live training sessions ay tuwing Sabado mula alas-5 ng hapon hanggang 7 ng gabi. Ngunit maaaring panoorin ang recorded sessions sa website ng ASP sa ibang oras at araw.

Ilan ang libreng therapy sessions na ibibigay ng Homepowerment?
Bawat mapiling benepisaryo ng libreng therapy ay magkakaroon ng 1 o dalawang assessment session, 6 na session ng Occupational Therapy at 6 na session ng Speech therapy. Sa huling session gaganapin ang  Case Team Conference kung saan pag-uusapan ang Home Program.

Ang pinakalayunin ng therapy sessions ay:
● matukoy ng therapist ang kakayanan at pangangailangan ng bata
● matukoy ang pangunahing pangangailangan ng bata
● pinakamabisang paraan ng pagturo sa bata
● turuan ang mga magulang kung paano ipatupad ang mga activities sa baha

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Posted in: HOMEpowerment