ASP HONORED BY THE PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS

Alabang, Muntinlupa City — The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) was honored with the “Parangal sa Natatanging Kaagapay: Katuwang sa Adbokasiya” by the Philippine Association of Speech-Language Pathologists (PASP) during the organization’s gala night last 13 July 2025, held at The Bellevue Manila. The recognition capped off PASP’s annual convention and highlighted the importance of enduring partnerships in the disability advocacy arena.

The award was presented to ASP and received by ASP Chair Emerita Dang Koe, in recognition of the organization’s steadfast commitment to advancing inclusive, accessible, and high-quality services for individuals with communication needs. The honor also recognized ASP’s consistent efforts in building meaningful, collaborative initiatives with speech-language professionals nationwide, as well as its contributions to the shared mission of empowering individuals with disabilities through communication and inclusion.

ASP’s collaboration with PASP spans years of joint events, public education campaigns, and continuing professional development activities aimed at creating stronger bridges between therapy professionals and the autism community. Through these efforts, both organizations have helped improve public understanding of communication challenges and the need for accessible, inclusive services that recognize the strengths and support the growth of persons with developmental and communication disabilities.

The gala night was also marked by a special musical performance from Ms. Charlene Danica Escasinas, a young woman on the autism spectrum, whose very presence on the event stage underscored the theme of empowerment and inclusion. Her skill and grace reflected the very outcomes ASP and PASP strive for -- individuals on the spectrum being given meaningful opportunities to participate, contribute, and shine in public spaces.

As part of its ongoing mission, ASP remains committed to collaborating with professionals, local government units, and national agencies to develop policies, programs, and platforms that address the genuine needs of individuals with autism. The organization humbly views this recognition as a tribute to the community it serves and a celebration of how far inclusive advocacy has come, powered by collective effort, compassion, and the belief in every individual’s potential.

Read more »

Posted in: 4public,awards,pasp

Nominations for the 9th Jollibee Family Values Awards are open!

Jollibee Family Values Awards

The Autism Society Philippines chapters and members are encouraged to send nominations to the Jollibee Family Values Awards to join the ranks of past winners who have advocated for persons on the autism spectrum and their families.

"The Jollibee Family Values Awards (JFVA) is an annual recognition program of the country’s leading fast-food chain for exemplary Filipino families. It seeks to give honor to deserving families who exemplify positive Filipino family values such as generosity, compassion, love for the community, love for the environment, among others, while also providing selfless service to their communities. The JFVA has demonstrated that the Philippines boasts of a priceless class of heroes – entire families of socially responsible citizens who share the same values of making a difference in the lives of other people and communities." Special awards are given to exemplary families who uphold the rights of persons with disabilities.

The JFVA has seen it fitting to honor families affiliated with the Autism Society Philippines in the past years:

The Viscocho Family of Baguio, Benguet

2016 Winner

Special Citation for PWDs

The Peña Family of Dasmariñas, Cavite

2015 Winner

Mechanics and nomination forms can be found at https://jfva.jollibee.com.ph. Please direct all questions and comments to the organizers.

Read more »

Posted in: awards,family,jollibee

ASP Autism Angel Achievement Awards 2019

The A5 Trophy

The ASP Autism Angel Achievement Awards, nicknamed A5, is an annual recognition of the impact of persons with autism in the community and of their skills and talent that makes them stand out beyond their exceptionality.

The honorees for the A5 every year are selected based on the following criteria:

Must have been formally diagnosed with autism; Must have won a competition at a national or international level during the previous calendar year; and Must possess good moral character.

List of past winners

2018

• Charlene Danica Escasinas (performing arts) - Nica first joined and won a singing contest at the age 7; and started modelling at the age of 12. Danica were given the opportunity to represent the Philippines to the 1st ASEAN Autism Youth Camp in April 2013 at Brunei Darussalam and in Autism Talent Gala 2017 in Hong Kong.

2017

• Vell Baria (performing arts) - Velle has been performing at autism advocacy events for years; and performs regularly at amateur and professional productions. Velle is working towards a degree in Music Performance, with a major in Voice, and a minor in Piano, at St. Scholastica's College Manila. She won the INAP Award for Performing Arts at the ANCA World Autism Festival in Vancouver, Canada.

2016

• Vico Cham (visual arts) - Considered a product of ASP showcases of PWA talents in his younger years -- joining on-the-spot painting contests, drawing for the centerfold of a national conference's souvenir programme, and being featured during an ASP art exhibit -- Vico received in 2015 a special award from the Apolinario Mabini Award for PWDs. He works as PWA employee #1 of Unilab Foundation.
• Raymond Macasaet (athletics) - Raymond is a Special Olympics veteran, having earned medals in Aquatics in competitions in Greece 2011 and Singapore 2013. During the 2015 Special Olympics in Los Angeles, he won gold in the 50 meter and 25 meter dash in the track and field category.
• Thara Marie Santiago (performing arts) - From 79 candidates, Thara Marie became one of the 19 finalists who received "Excellent Performance Award" during the Autistic Talent Gala held last December 2015 in Hongkong, which was organized by the AnAn International Education Foundation. Her rendition of "All by Myself" earned her one of the 4 major awards in the individual category - "Most Touching Voice."

Nomination Form

Read more »

Posted in: a5,awards,self-advocates

ASP @ 3rd Healthy Lifestyle Exemplar Awards

Autism Society Philippines represented by ASP Sta. Rosa Chapter President, Olive Medina attended the 3rd Healthy Lifestyle Exemplar Awards last 22 March 2017 at One Canvas Event Place Makati City.

ASP attended this event as a show of commitment in helping propagate the advocacy of healthy lifestyle in the country. ASP advocates for a healthy lifestyle among the autism community by conducting activities that promote good health such as yoga sessions, fun run, dance activities and seminars on healthy diet and good nutrition. Ms. Olive Medina is a yoga practitioner and the founder of Lorenzo’s Sanctuary, a farm in Calamba, Laguna, dedicated to all natural produce. The farm is inspired by their family’s love for Lorenzo, her family’s eldest son with autism.

The Healthy Lifestyle Exemplar Awards is a recognition night for the best practices, services and various breakthroughs in the medical health and lifestyle industry. On its 3rd year, it aims to raise public awareness on the important role of a healthy lifestyle and healthy behavior in the maintenance of good health and prevention of medical ailments prevalent in the country. Distinguished health professionals were present and were given recognition during the event.

Read more »

Posted in: awards,chapters,health

The ASP Autism Angel Achievement Awards

The A5 trophy was designed by Franco Cagayat
a sculptor on the spectrum.

Nicknamed A5, the ASP Autism Angel Achievement Awards is an annual recognition of the impact of persons with autism in the community and of their skills and talent that makes them stand out beyond their exceptionality.

The honorees for the A5 were selected based on the following criteria:

- Must have been formally diagnosed with autism
- Must have won a competition at a national or international level; or have received recognition for unique or pioneering achievement during the previous calendar year.
- Must possess good moral character.

In 2016, the A5 winners include: Vico Cham (visual arts), Raymond Macasaet (athletics) and Thara Marie Santiago (performance arts).

Vico Cham

Vico Cham won A5 Achievement Award as visual arts

Considered a product of ASP showcases of PWA talents in his younger years -- joining on-the-spot painting contests, drawing for the centerfold of a national conference's souvenir programme, and being featured during an ASP art exhibit -- Vico received in 2015 a special award from the Apolinario Mabini Award for PWDs. He works as PWA employee #1 of Unilab Foundation. ASP recognizes Vico's Excellence in Visual Arts with the ASP Autism Angels Achievement Award.

Raymond Macasaet

Raymond Macasaet won A5 Achievement Award as athletics

Raymond is a Special Olympics veteran, having earned medals in Aquatics in competitions in Greece 2011 and Singapore 2013. During the 2015 Special Olympics in Los Angeles, he won gold in the 50 meter and 25 meter dash in the track and field category. We honor Raymond Macasaet for his Excellence in Athletics with the A5.

Thara Marie Santiago

Thara Marie Santiago won A5 Achievement Award as performance arts

From 79 candidates, Thara Marie became one of the 19 finalists who received "Excellent Performance Award" during the Autistic Talent Gala held last December 2015 in Hongkong, which was organized by the AnAn International Education Foundation. Her rendition of "All by Myself" earned her one of the 4 major awards in the individual category - "Most Touching Voice." ASP recognizes her Excellence in Performing Arts with the A5.

Read more »

Posted in: 4public,4pwas,autismokph,awards

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.

Read more »

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

Autism advocates make their mark in recent national and international awards

Autism is an "invisible disability" which is slowly coming to the fore, as advocates continue their active participation in the civil society community. This is apparent in how visible our humble community has been recognized for their involvement and contribution to the cause.

Apolinario Mabini Presidential Awards 2015

The Apolinario Mabini Presidential Awards 2015 were given at the Heroes Hall of Malacanan Palace on 29 September 2015. The ASP contingent was led by ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe, National President Mona Magno-Veluz and National Trustees Jan Peña, Grace Adviento, Gina Bermudo and Helen Cheng.

ASP National Trustees in Apo Awards

The ASP, two years after our win as the Most Outstanding PWD Organization at the Gawad Gat Apolinario Mabini, was part of this year's screening committee. Jan Peña, ASP's immediate past president, served on the committee that helped refine the selection of candidates, before they were forwarded to the panel of judges.

Mirana Medina, the compassionate heart and creative mind behind "Alyana" (a documentary on her grandniece with autism), won the Gawad Gat Apolinario Mabini Media Advocate honors for her work on a film on deaf. On the same day, Mirana also bagged the second place honors for the under 60-minute category at the We Care Film Festival in India, for her documentary on Down Syndrome. Unilab Foundation bagged a special award as a PWD Employer, for its work on Project Inclusion and for inspiring hiring of PWAs, such as Vico Cham. Incidentally, Vico, a gifted young artist on the spectrum, also received a special award as a PWD Advocate.

The City of Dasmarinas won the PWD-Friendly LGU honors; while the municipality of Carmona claimed a special award as a PWD-Friendly LGU -- after having taken home the Apo Award multiple times in the past.

Jollibee Family Values Awards 2015

The Peña Family -- Daddy Al, Mommy Jan, Kids Thea, Muneer and Milli -- of ASP Dasmariñas, after weeks of screening, deliberations and interviews, were among the top recipients of the Jollibee Family Values Awards last 24 September 2015 at the Philippine International Convention Center. Jan Peña and her family, who have fueled the growth of autism advocacy in Cavite, were among the six Filipino families selected by an esteemed panel of judges, composed of Senator Bam Aquino, Senator Grace Poe-Llamanzares, Congresswoman Leni Robredo, Professor Winnie Monsod, Ms. Boots Anson-Rodrigo, Ms. Audrey Tan-Zubiri, News Anchor Edric Mendoza and Ms. Ma. Isabel Dionisio.

On hand were the Peña Family's "cheeleaders" ASP Chair Emeritus, National President Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP Trustees Grace Adviento and Carmel Almendrala, Teacher Ging Viado.

These persons with autism, family members and corporate "angels" have been stalwarts in inspiring awareness, inclusion and appreciation of individuals on the spectrum. May their tribe increase!

Read more »

Posted in: apo,awards

ASP Laguna Recognized as Most Outstanding Civil Society Organization

Autism Society Philippines Laguna Chapter was awarded as the Most Outstanding Civil Society Organization during Los Baños' commemoration of its 400th year as a town last 17 September 2015 at the covered court located inside the old municipal compound in Barangay Baybayin. The theme “Pagkilala sa Kasaysayan, Pagpupugay sa Kasalukuyan, Pagtanaw sa Kinabukasan” reflected the mood of the quadricentennial celebration. The commemoration of the town's founding anniversary was part of the annual Bañamos Festival, first held in the year 2001 and usually held on the third week of September.

Mona Veluz and Catherine Lopez receiving awards

A civic parade was held from Olivarez Plaza to Paciano Rizal Park in the same barangay, which started at 6 in the morning and ended at 9 in the morning. It was followed by the quadricentennial program, which was started by the entrance of colors by selected Philippine National Police- Los Baños. It was followed by a doxology lead by the Church Among the Palm and Los Baños Hymn was sung by Tunog Accapella Singing Ambassadors. Hon. Mayor Caesar Perez gave the welcoming remarks preceeded by an inspirational message by Mark T. Lapid, Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority. Congressman Joaquin Chipeco, Jr. and Vice Governor Karen Agapay also gave their messages during the celebration.

ASP Laguna Chapter, along with other organizations, institutions, companies and people from Los Baños, were awarded. In between the awarding ceremonies, those present during the quadricentennial program were entertained by Los Baños resident and The Voice of the Philippines Season 2 contestant Mackie Cao.

ASP Laguna Chapter President Catherine Lopez, along with ASP National President Mona Veluz, received the Most Outstanding Civil Society Organization award on behalf of the organization. According to the citation, the chapter was awarded due to its “wholehearted and unwavering dedication to its community service, for their commendable invaluable and selfless assistance resulting to the establishment of the Los Baños Community Center, Therapy Intervention and Support Services [(LBCC-TISS)] through fund sourcing schemes which immensely contributed to the welfare of the less privileged, particularly the rehabilitation of children with special needs and their families.” LBCC-TISS celebrated its first year anniversary on the same day.

About the author: Ian Ferdinand Lopez is a scholar of the provincial government of Laguna, studying BA Sociology at the University of the Philippines Los Baños. Diagnosed with autism when he was three years old, he benefitted from the care of loving parents and early intervention professionals; and was successfully mainstreamed from pre-school up to high school. His started his advocacy as part of the Autism Resource Center and represented the PWD sector in the Philippine National Children’s Conference, the PWD Empowerment Seminar, the ASEAN Children’s Forum and the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Social Welfare and Development (AMMSWD).

Read more »

Posted in: awards,chapters,regional

Muneer Peña: 2015 Mr. PWD Dasmariñas City

Autism Society Philippines’ very own Angelico Amir Peña soared anew by winning the 2015 Mr. PWD-Dasmariñas City title at the De La Salle Health Science Institute (DLS-HSI) Animo Center in Cavite last 20 July 2015. Muneer, the son of ASP’s immediate past president Jan Peña, bested 10 other charming male PWDs representing each of the community-clusters in the city. Another set of 10 lovely PWD ladies vied for the Ms. PWD-Dasmariñas title.

Muneer Peña won the Mr. PWD-Dasmariñas

During the 3-hour presentation, all 20 candidates wowed the judges and audience with their natural display of elegance during the national costume parade, as well as their commendable talents in singing, dancing, and singing. Prior to the contest proper, they all got actively involved in fund raising campaign with proceeds for both the city’s PWD programs and their personal contest expenses.

The Mr. and Ms. PWD personality search ushered in the Dasmariñas City observance of the 37th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week during the 11-day period from July 20 to 31. Subsequent activities included a sports fest for children with disabilities, holistic training and demonstration for parents and SPED teachers on OT/ST/PT/Stress Management, medical and dental mission, and a week-long PWD product exhibit and selling.

As the new male ambassador for PWDs in Dasmariñas, Muneer will steadfastly promote the 2015 NDPR theme of “health and wellness of PWDs and opportunities toward an inclusive development for all.”

About the contributor: Mr. Alfredo F. Peña, He is the father of 19 year old PWA self-advocate Muneer Peña, is a graduate of BS Psychology from the University of Sto. Tomas (1983). He worked as a personnel officer, trainer and instructional supervisor at the Philippine Refugee Processing Center in Morong, Bataan. He then spent 22 years as an OFW in Saudi Arabia, his last job being Head of HR Training and Development of Rabigh Arabian Water and Electricity Company in Jeddah and Rabigh, KSA. Al is now a full time dad to his three kids, Thea, Muneer and Milli.

Read more »

Posted in: awards,family,journey,regional

Recognition Day of Alfonso SPED Center

The Recognition Day of Alfonso Sped Center was held at the Tanghalang Sanghiyang Alfonso Central School, Alfonso Cavite last 14 March 2014. Hon. Mayor Virgilio P. Varias, SB Member Hon. Carolina L. Rivera, Hon. Madonna M, Pel, District Supervisor Mrs. Milagros H. Norcio, Principal Mrs. Nancy S. Marasigan, MSWD/PWD Coordinator Mrs. Jasper Alcedo, PDAO President Abelardo Cordenete were present as ASP Alfonso Chapter President Mrs. Jeanette Vidallon led the participants in the 1Pangako pledge.

Certificate giving to Ms. Janette Peña

The Autism Society Philippines National Office, represented by ASP President Jan Peña, was given recognition for its continued support to Alfonso SPED Center and to ASP Alfonso Chapter. The Municipality of Alfonso was site of the 2013 summer camp of the Kamp Pagkakaisa Volunteers Inc., where ASP provided invaluable support. ASP Alfonso Chapter also recently hosted the latest showing of the film documentary ALYANA, in partnership with Cavite State University, Indang, Cavite.

Read more »

Posted in: awards,chapters,community,education,sped

NACW 2013 Closes with a Family Day

The Closing Ceremony of the celebration of the 17th National Autism Consciousness Week started with a Thanksgiving Mass at The Atrium, SM City Fairview. Families, friends and supporters of Autism Society Philippines came to join and celebrate the success of the week’s activities last January 27, 2013.

ASP National trustees and Ms. Carmen Zubiaga on stage

The Family Day and closing ceremony followed after the Thanksgiving Mass. ASP National President, Mary Janette Peña gave a message and thanked all the supporters for the success of the 17th National Autism Consciousness Week celebration. She also invited all the working committees, guests and participants present during the event to do the 1Pangako pledge.

Awarding of Prizes for the winners of On-the-spot painting Contest and Quiz A also took place during the event. The representatives from DENR and HOR awarded the certificates and medals. ASP Treasurer Evelyn Go also gave a cash prize to all the winners.

Children and adult with autism also showcased their talents. ASP Dreamgirls, Thara and Danica gave the opening and closing song number. While other PWAs like Frederick Segui, Jas Bongalon, Jaypee Adizas, Tom Jake Millare, John Paul Lumba rendered a song number and PWAs from Saints and Angels and rendered a dance number and a special dance number from the parents of ASP Project 2, QC Chapter.

NCDA Executive Director Carmen Zubiaga gave an inspirational message to all the parents of PWDs. She invited all the Officers and Trustees of Autism Society Philippines and all national working committees and requested to dance with her in the tune of Gangnam Style. SM Story Land provided the children with loot bags and free tickets to avail free rides to Storyland. Abbott Philippines also gave samplings of milk to all the participants.

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon gave the closing remarks and thanked all the sponsors and volunteers as well as Joanna Hizon from DSWD and Mike Limon of NCDA who acted as the Masters of Ceremony.

For the 17th National Autism Consciousness Week 2013, we are honored to have the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), headed by Director Carmen Zubiaga as the Chair, with the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) as Co-Chair of the National Working Committee. The other members are SM Programs on Disability Affairs, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), House of Representatives Committee on Social Services, Buhay Party List, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Metropolitan Development Authority (MMDA) Mandaluyong City Government, Philippines Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine (PARM), NORFIL Foundation, Liliane Foundation, Archdiocese of Manila Ministry for Persons with Disabilities (AMMPD), Autism Hearts Foundation (AHF), the Association of Adults with Autism, Philippines (AAAP) and the Civil Defense Action Group (CDAG).

Our sincerest thanks to our following sponsors: SM City Fairview, SM Cares, SM Program on Disability Affairs, NCDA, DSWD, Abbott Philippines and Storyland.

Read more »

Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4public,4pwas,awards,nacw,regional

ABA Practitioner Wins ASP's Essay Writing Contest

Autism Society Philippines proudly announces the winner of the Essay - Writing Contest entitled "Why I Teach Children with Autism". Ms. Kathleen Daria or Teacher Taks bested other contestants with her entry of non-traditional prose-poetry mix essay.

Teacher Taks and some of her students

Teacher Taks is an private ABA practitioner currently working in Singapore. She hopes to rejoin Apples Tree Integrated school when she comes back to the Philippines in a few months. Aside from being entitled to free entrance to 12 ASP monthly seminars, Teacher Taks' winning entry "Pinocchio" will be published in Manila Bulletin under the Angels' Talk column of ASP Chairman Emeritus Dang Koe on Monday October 8, 2012. Congratulations Teacher Taks!

ASP would like to acknowledges and convey its gratitude to all the teachers who joined the contest. Happy Teachers Day!

Read more »

Posted in: awards,special

ASP Laguna honored for pioneering efforts in PWD employment and training

ASP Laguna was recognized for their unwavering commitment to improving the social and economic conditions of persons with autism and other disabilities through training and employment.

ASP Ranilo Sorongon received the honors in behalf of ASP Laguna at the “Stakeholders’ Forum on Employment Opportunities” at the Occupational Safety and Health Center, Quezon City held last 17 July 2012.

Ms. Carmen Zubiaga, Mr. Ranilo Sorongon and NDPR officers

The forum was among the activities that opened the 34th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week celebration with the theme “Mainstreaming Persons with Disability in Economic Development.”

ASP Laguna is the brains and heart behind the Autism Resource Center (ARC) in Sta. Fe Subdivision, Batong Malake, Los Baños, Laguna. The ARC operates a diner wherein PWAs and other developmental disabilities serve as cashier, physical arranger, busboy and dishwasher. PWAs also serve as messengers, office assistants, packers of rice and other products. They also produce arts and crafts like angel charms, paper bags and charcoal briquettes (made from waste paper). Every December, the ARC trainees, apprentices and workers receive their share of the profit.

From your ASP family, congratulations, ASP Laguna Chapter! May your achievements continue to inspire the PWA sector!

Read more »

Posted in: awards,chapters,government,ndpr

ASP Cavite Chapters Cited as Top NGO by Municipality of Carmona

By Gerard Joseph Atienza, ASP Bacoor Chapter Member

Autism Society Philippines is once again under the limelight, as ASP Cavite Chapters received a distinguished recognition from the Municipal Government of Carmona, during its town hall meeting titled “Ulat sa Bayan 2012” held last 20 February 2012 at the Hon. Mariano Mapanoo Park, Carmona, Cavite.

ASP Cavite Chapters is among the 10 non-government organizations, which, along with the top taxpayers and the companies with Corporate Social Responsibility projects in the municipality; have helped transform Carmona from a small community to a prosperous and blessed town.

Receiving the award was ASP Bacoor Chapter President and Gobernadora of the Cavite Chapters, Jan Peña, who is now serving as ASP National President. Present with her to witness the awarding was her CWA son, Muneer, Trece Martires Chapter President Lyn Ebuña, and yours truly.

During the “Ulat sa Bayan,” Carmona Mayor Dahlia A. Loyola, together with her equally dedicated husband, District 5 Representative Roy M. Loyola, reported to the community the achievements of the Municipality, and showcased projects which the Municipal Government has accomplished for the past year.

Among their achievements included projects for persons with disabilities (PWD), in which it partnered with ASP when it held a seminar on autism during the recent National Autism Consciousness Week facilitated by Tita Jan Peña.

Last year, both the ASP National Office and the ASP Cavite Chapters, represented by outgoing ASP National President, Grace Adviento and Tita Jan Peña were among the recipients of awards for Top Ten NGO’s in Carmona, being partners in the advocacy for the rights of PWDs, particularly for those with autism. You may contact ASP Bacoor Chapter President, Ms. Jan Peña, at (0915) 985-7828.

Read more »

Posted in: awards

ASP congratulates Carmona, a dream community

By Grace Adviento, ASP National President

“As I internalized Mayor Dahlia Loyola’s speech on her accomplishments and saw for myself the plans for the Municipality of Carmona, I would often think of relocating my family in this sub-urban town.” -- ASP President Grace Adviento

Mayor Dahlia Loyola during her speech

Ang maunlad na bayan ng Carmona ay namahagi kamakailan ng pagpuri at parangal sa top 10 taxpayer ng bayan. Nakakatuwang isipin na sa loob lamang ng ilang taon, ang maliit na bayan ng Carmona ay na transform into a highly industrialized area. Masasabing dream community nga ito at very ideal sa mga pamilya, lalo na sa mga may kapansanan.

Aside from the awards given out to the Top 10 Taxpayers 2011, Carmona also gave out eight (8) awards to companies with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects and nine (9) awards to non-government organizations (NGOs) plus other partner organizations that have worked to contribute to the success of Carmona.

Ang ASP National Office at ang ASP Cavite Chapters, sa pamumuno ni “Gobernadora” Jan Peña, ay ginawaran ng parangal sa pakikipag partner sa Carmona upang makatulong sa disability sector, partikular sa AUTISMO.

(from left) ASP Cavite Chapters "Gobernadora," Jan Peña, ASP National President, Grace Adviento and Representative of 5th District of Cavite, Roy Loyola

The award given by Carmona Municipality to Autism Society Philippines

Congratulations Carmona! May your Municipality always be an inspiration and a true model community for others. Mabuhay ang Carmona!

ASP National office received a generous donation from the mayor for the Early Intervention and Early Detection Project. Click here to read more about ASP’s recent visit to Carmona.

Be Angel for Autism. Make a Difference. Donate to ASP Programs and Services. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com, call us 7-903-5496. Please deposit your donation to Banco de Oro, Anonas- Kamias Branch, Account Name: Autism Society Philippines Saving Account No. 3980002955. Or you can drop by at our ASP National Office Room 307, ML Building 47 Kamias Road, Quezon City, Philippines.

Read more »

Posted in: awards,carmona,chapters

SM – A Mall for All Autism Angels

Malling is a way of life for Filipino families. The daily stream of about three million Filipinos going in and out of SM malls around the country attests to this.

But for families dealing with Autism, enjoying the malls may not come that easy. It requires preparation by the family for the child.

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how an individual interprets what he sees, hears, touches and tastes; thereby impairing his understanding and use of language, and his adaptation to his environment.

Imagine how the senses of a Child with Autism (CWA) are bombarded in a mall setting, with all the seemingly strange sights, sounds, smell, and people around them. Some of them may cry, some may throw tantrums, and others may exhibit "socially inappropriate behaviors." And some, yes, may get lost – which will be a very difficult situation if the CWA happens to be non-verbal, too.

But imagine also how a family feels when, while dealing with their CWA’s behaviors in the mall, the people around them are all staring, if not sneering. And judging: "spoiled brat" referring to the child; "hindi marunong magpalaki ng anak" – referring to the parents.

Really, it is not only the children with autism who need to be educated on malling. There is also a need to educate the mall-goers, and the public in general, on understanding autism.

SM swept a total of seven awards (for seven branches) as the Most Handicapped Friendly Establishments during the last Apolinario Mabini Awards in 2008. Hands down, the AM Awards Committee honored SM Committee on Disability Affairs for its trailblazing program to touch the lives of persons with disabilities.

They more than deserve the awards because their barrier-free and safe environment for persons with disability (PWD) includes not only their building facilities.

Most importantly, SM people – from the managers down to the front liners, understand and show compassion for PWDs who may not have physical disability requiring special ramps and comfort rooms, but need all the understanding and compassion they could get.

Autism Speaks estimated there are 67 million people struggling with autism worldwide. That is about 1% of the world’s population. Translating that to SM’s three million daily foot walkers inside the mall – there are about 30,000 Filipino mallers with autism, not to mention their families, being touched by SM’s heart.

But the heart of SM goes beyond statistics when it comes to touching the lives of families living with autism. It is hard to put a price tag on any of the following:

-Families comforted by the sincere smile and look of understanding from SM personnel;
-The excitement of families watching their children perform on stage of SM’s entertainment centers;
-The pride of families seeing their children’s artworks displayed in SM’s atriums and admired by the passing mall goers;
-The tears of joy from families coming out of their first movie dates with their children;
-The feeling of having one big family as thousands of families come together during big and small events; and
-The public’s better understanding of autism, as role modeled by SM personnel and management

One in 110 children is now diagnosed with autism. Aside from their families, their doctors, teachers and therapists… there are SM malls nearby, with Autism Angels, to love and care for them.

Read more »

Posted in: awards,sm

Butterflies in my stomach

By: Cathy Genovia

Behind the scenes of the 2009 Philippine Blog Awards:

It all started with a simple suggestion of “Go girls! Sali tau sa blog awards.” A few months later we are standing here at the lobby of PETA-PHINMA Theater.

"See, nasa gitna ng tarp yung sa atin, kasi winner tayo!" kidded our ASP National President, Dang Koe, while taking pictures.

Cocktails were served first as we were not yet allowed to enter the theater. I personally enjoy eating, but I had so much butterflies “flying” in my stomach. Before the main event, PBA gave away so-called appetizer awards, top ten most influential bloggers and other special awards that were given.

Autism Blogger Angels Cathy Genovia and Abegail Mendoza

As I was praying on my seat, while documenting the announcements, the presenters suddenly announced… ”And for our Best in Advocacy, the winner is AUTISM SOCIETY PHILIPPINES….” To my excitement, I jumped for joy and accidentally pressed on the wrong button!

Our gracious president asked me and my co-office angel Abby (who refused to go up on stage) to receive the award, “Wow! Ang sarap pala ng feeling!” Oops, wait. I was not given a chance to make a speech after receiving the trophy.

Anyway, here is the speech that I prepared in advance….

“I can’t thank Bro (Papa God) enough for this wonderful, wonderful gift, for the talents He gave us and for the Patience we had during that time of waiting. On behalf of the Autism Society Philippines, we would like to thank the PBA for this chance, the judges for taking time to read and appreciate our work and to all our ASP Angels/followers in our blogsite.”

This award is for all of us… Mabuhay ang Autismo! Mabuhay ang ASP!

Read more »

Posted in: awards

ASP Wins the 2009 Philippine Blog Awards!

ASP bags this year’s Best in Advocacy Blog for 2009. Being newbies in the blog community, the ASaP news team was ecstatic to receive the official notice from Philippine Blog Awards “You are now an official nominee!” The Philippine Blog Awards (PBA) is a yearly event that aims to give recognition to outstanding Filipino blogs and bloggers.

ASP National President Dang Koe – “ASP, you’re such a winner!”

“I was very confident we would win, but when I saw the names of our co-finalists, I got a little insecured. They sounded like pro bloggers. When ASP was called, the three of us (ASP assistants couldn't give our usual loud cheers... because we didn’t know anyone there. It was a new mileu for us,” said Dang Koe, ASP National President after the awarding ceremonies at PETA-PHINMA Theater, October 9, 2009.

Believing in harnessing technology in the hopes of promoting autism awareness, ASP taps the growing blogging community on November 25, 2008. ASaP or ASP Stories, Announcements and Pictures evolved from the almost daily e-mail newsletter to the current blogsite.

ASP’s blogsite is also intertwined with our other sites: YouTube, Facebook, Multiply, and the Autism Beyond Borders Website, and soon, to the new and improved Autism Society Philippines Website.

“On line, on air, on paper…all year round,” is the inspiration behind the blog. This tagline was lifted from the fiery speech of Dang during the ASP Chapter Leaders’ Conference, August 2008. Cristina Estampador, ASP’s Board of Trustee and ASP’s Tech Visionary dreamed of a network web intertwining the different sites, much like a giant invisible spider web, linking them to one another.

And ASP Board Secretary and ASaP Chief Editor Tiffany Tan ensures the daily stream of news and articles.

Autism Blogger Angels Cath and Abby

“ASP is proud to be the first recipient of PBA in the Advocacy Category. We will continue exploring all media to further advance our advocacy. ASP is also very blessed to have Autism Angels who contributed to our blog, and in particular, the ASaP Team (Tiff, Abby and Cath) who work hard to deliver ASaP a.s.a.p.”

ASP shares this award to fellow nominees and all AUTISM ANGELS who continue to Share Hopes and Build Dreams. Thank you for helping us get the message across and beyond borders! MABUHAY ang AUTISMO!" MABUHAY ang ASP!”

Read more »

Posted in: awards