ASP colors the world Autism-OK!

The Autism Society Philippines is celebrating World Autism Awareness Day by shedding the traditional colors the commemoration is associated with; and opening our world to the entire color spectrum! This initiative echoes our call for, not only awareness; but more importantly, acceptance, accommodation and appreciation of persons with autism!

The Color it A-OK digital poster

We would like to invite children with autism, families and friends to join us at a collaborative art event aptly called the ASP Color It A-OK! at the Mall of Asia Arena Music Hall on 2 April, Tuesday at 3pm-6pm. We will be a large scale replica of several pages from Summit Books' "Hue Can Do It Manila,” illustrated by designer Asa Montenejo. We will be providing CRAYONS; but participants are encouraged to bring their own.

Sign up on Eventbrite via http://bit.ly/asp-colorAOK. Print the ticket; and affix name and signature. Bring a signed ticket to the venue to gain access to the event. The event is FREE; but donations of art supplies are welcome!

Let's make a day of it! ASP Chapters, schools, supporters and families are encouraged to help color the world Autism-OK! As an additional security precaution, please wear the Angels Walk for Autism 2019 shirt or any GREEN top.

The following prizes are at stake for the biggest contingents:

FIRST PRIZE: Kidzania Tickets (16 children, 16 adults)
from Cebu Pacific
SECOND PRIZE: P10,000 gift certificates
from SM Department Store Children and Infant Clothes Section
THIRD PRIZE: P8,000 gift certificates
from SM Department Store Children and Infant Clothes Section

WANTED: VOLUNTEERS to help distribute art supplies and guide participants at the event. Volunteer must be able to 1) attend volunteer orientation on April 1, Monday, 1pm at the ASP National HQ (http://bit.ly/asp-map2); and 2) go to SM MOA Music Hall by 1pm on April 2, Tue for event prep. If you are able to help, please join this FB Messenger thread and introduce yourself! https://m.me/join/Abaev8WWg0iB3r-9.

This national autism advocacy event is organized by the Autism Society Philippines with SM Cares, SM Mall of Asia, National Council on Disability Affairs, Summit Books, Cebu Pacific; and supported by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Japan-ASEAN Cooperation, Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability, ASEAN Autism Network and the ASEAN Autism Mapping Project.

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Posted in: aan,art,colors,community

Cooperative of ASP QC Chapters turns 5

It was one afternoon in July five years ago today, that 15 parents came together to deepen their friendship and commitment for the sake of their children with autism (CWA). Most of them are members of the different Quezon City chapters of Autism Society Philippines (ASP). Their objective is not only to strengthen their support group but to provide a better future for their CWA. The parents realized that only in coming together can they truly help their CWA as they become adults. Their logo therefore would be the ‘kapit-bisig’ and their motto ‘kayang-kaya kung sama-sama.’

The idea of a cooperative appealed to them as the platform with which to achieve this objective. A cooperative has democratic ownership and control because decision-making is done by all the members. The Kaakibat ng ASP Multi Purpose Cooperative was first registered as a credit cooperative in Feb 2013. Two years later it became a multi-purpose cooperative with the purpose of providing socialization activities, work opportunities and adult services/programs to their CWA. Other goals were to help parent financially for therapy and special education; and to establish a Center which will serve as a respite for parents and workshop for their CWA.

Since then, the cooperative has done activities for the children of their members. These included art activities like ‘katsa’ bags, Christmas cards and gift bags which are sold to friends and relatives. The CWAs were also taught to prepare sandwiches for events. Other regular activities included singing (like caroling) and sports like swimming and basketball. These activities not only give the CWAs opportunities for socialization and livelihood but also raise their self-confidence and self-worth.

This November, the KASP-MPC will be doing a benefit recital/musical to raise funds for their dream Center.

About the contributor: Josephine Palomares has long been the face of autism advocacy for ASP Diliman Chapter. After serving as the President of the chapter for multiple terms, she continues to serve the disability community as she leads the Kaakibat ng Autism Society Philippines Inc. Multipurpose Cooperative; and contributes as an active member of the Association for Adults with Autism. She owns and personally manages a thriving model airplane export business in Bulacan. Her son Macky is on the spectrum.

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Posted in: chapters,community

ASP Lemery's first awareness campaign

In keeping with our promise to advocate for autism acceptance, accommodation and appreciation, ASP officers started its journey to educate about 60 teachers and health volunteers from the municipality of Calaca on 28 October 2016. Headed by our chapter adviser and KTLC directress Teacher Mona Viñas, our team of 5 mothers and 4 CWAs visited the industrial area of Calaca, the town where the most number of autism cases were recorded in District 1. We talked about the basic information on ASD and gave testimonies on how early intervention and continuous therapy can positively affect cognitive development and behavior of children with autism. The local government promised to help reach out with the needs of indigent CWAs, beginning with free therapy.

Teacher Mona receives certificate

About the contributor: Rowena Suarez-Atienza is an Autism Awareness Advocate since 2013. Her 2 boys were diagnosed with ASD in 2012 and 2014 and from that time on, she became a front runner of awareness campaigns for the hundreds of Batangueno PWAs in her area. She leads a group of 160 parents by giving them support group, taking them to related-trainings & seminars and taking them to fun run activities. She also advocates sponsorship program with local government and industrial sector that support their indigent kids with therapies and early intervention program.

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Posted in: accommodation,chapters,community,regional

ASP Alfonso hosts film-showing and FSG

ASP Alfonso conducted a Family Support Group meeting last 28 September 2016 at Alfonso Therapy Intervention and Resource Center, in commemoration of the 4th Year Founding Day Anniversary of Alfonso Sped Center.

Ms. Janette Peña speaking in front of facilitators

The FSG was facilitated by ASP Trustee Jan Peña with son Muneer and ASP Alfonso President Mrs. Jeanette Vidallon. It was started by a doxology to the song "Huwag Ka Nang Iiyak" by KZ Tandingan. It was participated by thirty parents who were very emotional after watching the movie entitled Black Balloon. Jan was able to emphasize siblings issues, family members' day-to-day challenges and community struggles.

About the contributor: Noleth Rozul is a college graduate B.S medical technology at De Ocampo Memorial College Manila. A fulltime housewife married for 19 years, now an active member and secretary to ASP Alfonso Chapter.

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Posted in: chapters,community,fsg,regional

ASP Lemery wins a trip to Kidzania

Thirteen children with autism and their guardians were treated to a day of imaginative play at Kidzania Manila in Taguig last 30 July 2016, through the kindness of Cebu Pacific. Freshly formed on 18 June 2016, ASP Lemery was recognized for their efforts to recruit the most number of new members towards building the national autism advocacy.

Kids Enjoying at Kidzania

Kidzania Manila offered young minds the opportunity to explore an alternative universe where kids run society. Parents would attest to how exploring the various job sites helped their kids hope, dream and imagine themselves in the future as working adults. Despite the challenges of living and loving with autism, this community trip lifted the spirits, not just of our angels with autism, but of their ever-faithful parents as well.

About the contributor: Rowena Suarez-Atienza is an Autism Awareness Advocate since 2013. Her 2 boys were diagnosed with ASD in 2012 and 2014 and from that time on, she became a front runner of awareness campaigns for the hundreds of Batangueno PWAs in her area. She leads a group of 160 parents by giving them support group, taking them to related-trainings and seminars and taking them to fun run activities. She also advocates sponsorship program with local government and industrial sector that support their indigent kids with therapies and early intervention program.

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Posted in: community,play,regional

ASP Lemery Goes To Kidzania

A million thanks to ASP and sponsors for our fun-filled Kidzania trip in Taguig last 30 July 2016. Thirteen kids, with 13 guardians from ASP Lemery were awarded by ASP National for its superlative chapter building efforts with free tickets courtesy of Cebu Pacific. Freshly formed on 18 June 2016, ASP Lemery surprisingly bagged the competition for having the most number of new ASP members.

Group of ASP Lemery Chapter

Our kids, parents and even teachers enjoyed the thrills of being in creative world of imaginative play. Parents would attest how this experience helped their kids hope, dream and imagine themselves in the future as working adults. Despite the many doubts and issues of autism, this field trip is truly a morale booster, not just for our angels, but also for the ever-faithful guardians of our CWA’s.

About the contributor: Rowena Suarez-Atienza is an Autism Awareness Advocate since 2013. Her 2 boys were diagnosed with ASD in 2012 and 2014 and from that time on, she became a front runner of awareness campaigns for the hundreds of Batangueno PWAs in her area. She leads a group of 160 parents by giving them support group, taking them to related-trainings and seminars and taking them to fun run activities. She also advocates sponsorship program with local government and industrial sector that support their indigent kids with therapies and early intervention program.

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Posted in: chapters,community,regional

ASP Diliman Chapter First Holy Communion and Holy Confirmation

The St. Benedict Parish in Don Antonio Heights, Quezon City -- through the advocacy of ASP Diliman -- will conduct First Holy Communion on July 11, 2016, Monday and Holy Confirmation on September 30, 2016, Friday. There will be a special Catholic catechism lesson for Persons with Autism (PWAs) for the preceding 2 Sundays. Participants must be a ASP Member or willing to be a ASP Member.

Holy Communion Giving Bread

Registration of interested participants is until June 24, Friday. Deadline for submission of baptismal certificate will be on June 30. Sign up on the form below. For inquiries, please call Jo Palomares at 0922-847-2776.

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Posted in: 4pwas,chapters,church,community

ASP UP CAMP Manila experiences Star City

ASP UP CAMP Manila families had a community building event last 24 April 2016 at Star City at CCP Complex, Pasay City. Seven families, 23 ASP members total, experienced the attractions and truly enjoyed the bonding moment they had in the amusement park. The staff of Star City was very accommodating, helpful and considerate. They gave discounted rates and even assigned a marshal to assist and facilitate priority for the rides.

The kids -- children with autism (CWA) and their siblings -- and the parents/guardians enjoyed the rides. We discovered that this was the first time for some PWAs and even the parent to be in an amusement park.

Kids enjoying the ride in Star City

The chapter organized the event to have a venue for the families to bond. The nature of some of the rides also satisfies the sensory needs of the CWAs – rides that were rotating, spinning, goes up and down, etcetera. Exposing the CWAs to the community can also make them develop their social skills, practice their waiting skills and requesting (asking for the next ride). At the end of the trip, each family has their own story to tell; but we are sure they enjoyed a lot.

Here are some of the comments of the participants to the trip to Star City:

“It was my son’s first time at Star City. Thinking he would not be able to bear the noise, we are ready to exit anytime. But it was so surprising he was able to tolerate the sounds and lights and actually enjoyed the rides suitable for him. He even enjoyed the bump car ride with us. We repeatedly rode Magic Forest, Grand Carousel, Giant Star Wheel, Pirate Adventure, and the two airplane rides (forgot the name of it). Seeing my son happy, we did not mind the time and we are equally happy. I appreciate the Star City for giving us (the group) a marshal/guide to lead us. Thank you also to our ASP UP CAMP Manila Chapter. It was a spectacular, joyful experience for Kimwel.”

“Napakasaya namin ni Gwyneth. Lahat ng rides, kahit nakakatakot, sinakyan namin. 8PM na kami nakaalis. Tapos try namin yung Lagim ng Dilim, kaming mag ina ang nauna at hindi kami natakot. Lahat ng nasa likod namin panay tili. Nahilo kami sa Blizzard, sakit sa ulo pero ako lang ang nasuka. Nanuod kami ng palabas. First time namin sa Star City.”

“Masaya. Balik pa tayo ulit. =) ”

About the contributor: Jennette F. Rodriguez, aka Mommy Jeng, is a mother to 3 kids, including a 13 year old boy with autism. She is currently the President of ASP UP CAMP Manila Chapter and a Parent-Volunteer at the Padre Gomez SPED Center. A graduate of BS Commerce major in Economics at University of Santo Tomas, she has assisted in organizing several events of the chapter and has given talks on Orientation on Autism and ASP to different schools and colleges, and PWD Ministries under the Archdiocese of Manila Ministry on Persons with Disabilities (AMMPD).

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Posted in: chapters,community,sensitivity

ASP Lipa Chapter fires relit

ASP Lipa Chapter was reorganized In cooperation of parents and professionals of the community; and the orientation was held last 28 April 28 2016 at Brilliant Minds Interactive School of Excellence in St. Mathew’s Subdivision, Banay Banay, Lipa City. Ms. Mary Janette Peña, ASP National Board Trustee, facilitated the orientation.

ASP Lipa Orientation Group Photo with Ms. Jan Peña

Everyone was on fire, thinking of how they can be of help to the organization, considering different ways on how they can encourage others to join this group and be united in helping children with autism. This is a good sign that everybody is engaged, but as Tita Jan Peña stressed, consistency and perseverance are necessary for the chapter to continuously grow and be a success. The officers and members of this chapter know that the community should be aware and be cooperative for the progress of children with autism. Awareness and cooperation in the community are a big factor in teaching children with autism to be productive and to enhance their self worth. This is why these parents reactivated the ASP Lipa Chapter. This is to help children with autism to be recognized and loved not only by their family but also by the community.

About the contributor: Maricar A. Carandang is the Secretary of ASP Lipa Chapter. She is a graduate of Bachelor in Secondary Education. She finished Post Baccalaureate Program in Special Education in University of Perpetual Help System. Teaching children with special needs especially those with autism can be tough at first, but it gave her a different kind of fulfillment.

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Posted in: chapters,community,regional

WAAD Celebration at MOA

The 9th World Autism Awareness Day Celebration with the theme “The Call to Action: Hiring the Autism Advantage.” “Employment of Persons with Autism” was celebrated last April 1, 2016, 3:00- 7:00 PM at the Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.

WAAD Group in MOA

The following organizing committee and support organizations were present to give inspirational messages led by Ms. Carmen Zubiaga (NCDA); Dr. Epifania Simbul, (Committee Chair / Director, National Children’s Hospital), Ms. Josephine Palomares (Association for Adults with Autism Philipines) & Ms. Carmel Almedrala (Autism Society Philiipines).

Program also includes Presentation of Ten (10) Persons with Autism- Model Employees in Government Agencies and Private Companies & FASHION Arts Autism Benefits (FAAB) Artists & Launching of Awards & Recognitions of Families & Individuals from the the National Library and Musical Performances from several PWAs.

There are 25 representatives from Autism Society Phils. Pasay Chapter, 2 from UP Camp Manila Chapter and 3 from Parañaque Chapter. There were also representatives from other LGUs like San Juan, Marikina, Caloocan, Pasig, Las Piñas, & other Non-Government organizations like PFRD headed by Mr. Noli Agcaoili, as well as government agencies like NCDA, DOH, DTI, DENR and doctors from National Children’s Hospital.

The highlight of the event was the Light It Up Blue, the lighting of the MOA Iconic Globe showcasing the World Autism Awareness logo and encouraging people to advocate for the rights of people with autism.

About the contributor: Hilda Cristobal is blessed with four children and one grandson. Her youngest son Jared Kevin, now 19 years old, lives with autism. This BS Criminology graduate serves many non-profit organizations. Since 2008, she is the treasurer of Ladies Circle 185, which aims to establish camaraderie and to empower women in the communities in Pasay. Hilda serves as ASP Pasay Chapter President.

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Posted in: community,MOA,WAAD

Making friends with Speech-Language Pathologists

SLP in front of foods

Future Speech- Language Pathologists from the College of Rehabilitation, Sciences of the University of Santo Tomas held its annual ‘SLP Day’ at the Tan Yan Kee Student Center Parking Lot last 19 March 2016. There were a variety of booths that were made by the different batches of the SLP community inside the college. Along with the play day, a seminar for the parents was held at the Speech-Language Pathology Laboratory. The topic for the seminar was about making the everyday activities of the children meaningful to them. Moreover, the partner community was able to have a grand time with the people who were assigned with different aspects throughout the event. Members of the ASP UP CAMP were on hand to enjoy the day with the budding SLP’s.

The freshmen made a hospital-themed and market-themed booth wherein the former stall made an environment for the children to imagine themselves as doctors with the stuffed toys that were provided. The designed market stall that was also made by batch 2020 was included with the idea that the people can either be one of the customers or be an owner of the market filled with the food shaped toys.

The sophomores were able to make life-sized furniture and machines that were both used for play. In the laundry designed area, the children had fun in making bubbles and following the step-by-step process like washing the clothes, ironing them, and even folding some of the shirts and shorts provided. The bath of 2019 also gave a restaurant that was also a hit to some of the kids. From cutting the food to cooking them inside the oven; the children were able to enjoy and experience a unique moment.

The third-years, meanwhile, provided a space for the children with different ages and personalities to enjoy the quiet and meaningful makeshift library with the small books that were used for reading. Furthermore, the third-years created a mini golf course that was also flocked by the majority of the young boys and girls. The course was constructed with a design that was child-friendly and entertaining with animals as the models.

The SLP students who are now in their fourth year and internship period were the people who took care of the children hands-on. They were the ones who showed proper ways of handling a child who wanted to play and even those were also in the midst of a small tantrum. It was indeed unforgettable. It was a small sneak peek on the days to come as a future SLP in the country and in the future generation.

In every SLP Day that has happened, it has continuously been proven that with an SLP, every child will always have a friend.

About the contributor: Madelyn Escario is a second-year Speech-Language Pathology student from the College of Rehabilitation Sciences (CRS) in UST. She is a writer for Amplified, the Speech-Language Pathology Society’s online newsletter, and the current editor-in-chief of the Therapeutic Currents, the official publication the CRS.

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Posted in: chapters,community,slp

ASP Trece Martires holds a seminar at Brgy. Inocencio

“Strength lies in differences, not in similarities” ― Stephen R. Covey

It was a great opportunity for the ASP Trece Martires Chapter to conduct a community seminar about “Community Awareness Towards Children with Special Needs” at Brgy. Inocencio Trece Martires City last 9 March 2016 from 8am -3pm. With the support of the DSWD and Community officials of Brgy. Inocencio Trece Martires City, the event met is desire to inform the community of various intellectual and developmental disabilities and what parents should do.

ASP National President Mona Magno-Veluz briefly welcomed the participants to community event. The other guest speakers were Dr. Julio Estorninos, the SPED Director who talked about “Early Intervention;” Mrs. Lucinda Agrava, DSWD Focal Person who shared her knowledge about “Rights and Benefits of Children with Special Needs;” and Mrs. Janette Peña, ASP National Trustee and Dasmariñas Chapter President who shared the significance of the “Opportunities for Children with Special Needs.” The speakers gifted the audience with knowledge and awareness on invisible disabilities.

ASP Trece Martires officers with Ms. Mona Veluz

About the contributor: Nordita M. Eva is a 3rd year SPED student of Trece Martires City College, ASP Trece Martires Chapter President and mother of a 17 year old boy who has autism.

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Posted in: academe,chapters,community,regional,seminar,university

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

ASP Sta. Rosa Aqua Therapy

The ASP Sta. Rosa Chapter had a wonderful time learning the basics of Aqua Therapy last July 12, 2015 at the Banahaw Clubhouse of Sta Elena Golf and Country Club, Sta. Rosa Laguna. The whole day event composed of lectures and actual pool session conducted by Christian Oliver Cruz, Head of Physical Therapy at Quality Life Discoveries.

PWAs Swimming during Aqua Therapy with Mr. Christian Oliver Cruz

Parents, teachers, family members and our Persons with Autism (PWA) learned basic aqua therapy techniques and understood how these form of adjunct therapy can be a good form of exercise, relaxation, sensory integration and a means to build self-confidence and social skills. Aside from the learning, it was a good bonding moment for the family and our ASP Sta. Rosa team as we all partake of good food and shared stories and laughter. The group will hold another follow up session to provide the participants opportunities to practice what they have learned.

About the contributor: Olive Medina is mom to CWA Enzo and his baby sister Lizzie. Aside from fulfilling her duties as a wife and mother, she works as General Manager for a logistics company, a part time college lecturer and part time yoga instructor. She is also the president of ASP Sta. Rosa Chapter.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4pwas,chapters,community,regional,seminar,sports,swim,therapy,water

Jamming with Noel Cabangon

Family, friends and fellow advocates gathered for a benefit concert, presented by ASP-Diliman and Kaakibat ng ASP-QC Credit Cooperative last 20 March 2015 at Conspiracy Bar, Quezon City with Noel Cabangon as the lead performer and the teens of ASP Diliman doing the front act. The musical numbers showcased the versatile talents of teens with autism (TWA), in singing, and the use of instruments.

The night of music started at 7 p.m. and ended past midnight. The boys’ talents shone brightly, and their disabilities were hardly discernible. Songs were sang beautifully, and instruments were expertly played. Marcus “Macky” Palomares played like a professional pianist, entertaining the audience with his piano pieces. The Front Act numbers was started by a piano piece “Arabian Dance” performed by Andrei Gaban.

ASP Diliman and our adult with autism with Noel Cabangon

Then Vincent Benoza and Joshua Cana rendered a very inspirational performance as they sang “You Raised Me Up” to the accompaniment of Macky on the piano. A father and son Jun and Vico Cham as they sang “Can’t help Falling in Love.” Joseph, played the song “Canon” on flute with Macky on the piano. The Segui Family (mom Dra. Marie and Frederick, with Paula on the guitar and Gabby on the piano) performed the song “Kahit Maputi na ang Buhok Ko.”

During the main act, the guest star, Noel Cabangon sang many different songs that everyone enjoyed, such as “Ako ay Mabuting Pilipino.” For that night, he specially sang “I Want to Live” by John Denver. He also shared a musical number with the ASP Diliman teens and parents with the song “Kanlungan.” One special teen Buddy Castro, had duet songs with his idol, Mr. Cabangon. A budding musician, Bolo Pascual shared his original song composition and entertained everyone as he sang and played the guitar. Bolo also shared that his special brother is now learning how to play the piano.

It was a special night of music. It was made extra special with the presence of family members and friends, who boosted the morale of the special teens. The Board of Trustees of ASP also graced the occasion -- Dang Koe, Peng Koe, Evelyn Go and Grace Adviento. President Mona Veluz. Ms. Veluz also officiated the Oath Taking of ASP Diliman officers.

That night was another success for ASP Diliman. It highlighted the musical talents of ASP Diliman teens. Despite the challenges imposed by autism, these special teens are evolving as good musicians. That night also successfully raised seed funds for the Autism Center of Kaakibat ng ASP Cooperative.

About the contributor: Vania is 10 yrs old, Grade 4 in St Mary's College, Quezon City. She is a proud sibling to her Kuya Vincent who is on the spectrum.

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Posted in: chapters,community,music,performance

ASP Sta. Rosa celebrates World Autism Acceptance Month

In commemoration of World Autism Acceptance Month, Autism Society Philippines Sta. Rosa Chapter held various activities on 18 April 2015 at SM Sta. Rosa. The day started with an Autism Walk inside SM Sta. Rosa Mall, a first for ASP Sta. Rosa! We started with an opening song "Heal our Land," beautifully sung by one of our angels, Trisha Angelica Cardino.

The Autism Walk of ASP Sta. Rosa

After the walk, the exhibit where artworks of our talented persons with autism are displayed was formally opened, with SM Sta Rosa Mall Manager Marius Cortez, ASP Sta. Rosa President Olive Medina and some of the exhibitors cutting the ceremonial ribbon. This is the second year we are doing our art exhibit at SM. This years exhibitors are: Caryll Angela Alvarez, Lorenzo Miguel Medina, Justin Erolin, Giannelle Amandy, DJ De Jesus, Lauriel Lambon, Ethan Zamora, Paolo Mendoza, Matthew Romero, Sean Tiu, Yshi Garcia and Jose Antonio Tan.

Guests, SM managers and ASP members made their 1Pangako pledge and signed in the 1Pangako sign board. SM frontliners attended our Autism awareness orientation conducted by our very own Marigin Cinco.

We are thankful to all our supporters and sponsors headed by Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Barangay Captain Aldrin Lumague. We are also thankful for the presence of ASP Biñan and ASP Laguna in our activities. It is our hope that through these activities we can create a more caring and accepting society for our persons with autism.

About the contributor: Olive Medina is mom to CWA Enzo and his baby sister Lizzie. Aside from fulfilling her duties as a wife and mother, she works as General Manager for a logistics company, a part time college lecturer and part time yoga instructor. She is also the president of ASP Sta. Rosa Chapter.

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Posted in: angels-walk,chapters,community,laguna,sm,WAAD

ASP Sta. Rosa’s Lakbay Aral at Yusen Logistics Center

ASP Sta. Rosa PWA members and their families went on an educational tour “Lakbay Aral” at Yusen Logistics Center, located at the Laguna Technopark in Binan, Laguna last 30 March 2015. The aim of the activity is to expose our PWA’s to an actual workplace and see whether there are opportunities for summer activity for them and use or develop skills that will be useful for employment in the future.

The ASP Sta. Rosa members during the lakbay aral

Our member PWA’s had a wonderful time going around the logistics center in their safety vests and hard hats. They were also given a chance to try out cutting the labels for shipment and learn some Nihonggo words.

About the Contributor. Olive Medina is mom to CWA Enzo and his baby sister Lizzie. Aside from fulfilling her duties as a wife and mother, she works as General Manager for a logistics company, a part time college lecturer and part time yoga instructor. She is also the president of ASP Sta. Rosa Chapter.

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Posted in: chapters,community,employment

Wandering and loss

We hear about it happening in other countries. Persons with autism are sometimes lost to their families forever after they wander away from home. But this happens in the Philippines too.

Joey*, who just turned age 8, is the child of an ASP member from Marikina. He left their home in Montalban, Rizal undetected on a Sunday in February 2015. He was found lifeless days later near a flowing body of water, with a head injury. Authorities suspect that he might have fallen off a bridge.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the bereaved family at this time of profound loss. We all mourn deeply for Joey's passing; but angels in Heaven are very likely rejoicing at the arrival of such innocence.

*Not his real name

-----

For us who continue to be surrounded by worldly dangers, what precautions should parents take to keep our children from wandering?

- Go over the rules with your child everyday. Give him visual cues near the exit (like a red stop sign). Work with your OT on techniques that will help.

- Update your locks. Kids with autism are very intelligent. They are able to figure out how to open locked doors over time. Change your approach as their capabilities improve.

- Introduce yourself and your family to your neighbors. Register your child as a person with a disability with your baranggay. Give them your number so they can call you, in case they see your child unaccompanied. Educate your neighbors about autism and help inspire kindness and compassion for families who live with autism.

- Put his name and your cellphone number on your child's underwear, clothes or shoes. Some even ask their children to wear ASP shirts exclusively to let people know that their child has autism, in case they are separated.

- Assign a "hintayan" zone. If a child is separated from you in your neighborhood or in places where you typically go, assign a safe place where he can wait.

- Find out where he wants to wander off to and bring it closer to home.

- Teach them how to swim. Many children with autism are attracted to water. Swimming can be a life-saving skill.

In case a child wanders, you should go to the barangay or the police first before going to social media. And once you decide to post on social media, include relevant details about the child and the circumstances (where last seen, clothes, unique behavior) and a number that will be reachable at any time (phone always charged and with load). If your child is found, update your status and take down the "Lost" poster.

Remember that Risk = Hazard x Exposure. Precautions should be taken based the risks in the environment and not the intensity of a parent's fear.

The three boys walking in the street

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Posted in: community,education,hazards,wandering

One with Kamp Pagkakaisa

ASP Trustee Jan Peña and Chair Emeritus Dang Koe gave a lecture to 45 aspiring and seasoned volunteers, composed of SPED and regular teachers, students taking up SPED, Psychology and other courses, parents and a grandmother, of Kamp Pagkakaisa Volunteers (Charity) Inc. (KPVI) last February 8 and March 8, respectively. The participants gave their 1Pangako Pledge, in support for ASP’s campaign to stop the use of the word “autistic” in a derogatory way.

Trustee Jan Peña talked about “Handling Campers with Autism” (CWA). Ms. Peña came with her son Muneer, also a camper of KPVI since 2010. For the participants to understand CWAs better, Ms. Peña used the exclusive template for KPVI made by one of ASP’s EDEIP Trainers, Teacher My Sorongon. She also gave a talk on “Love and Commitment” the night before her birthday, March 21.

Ms. Jan Peña during the talk in KPVI training

Chair Emeritus Dang Koe talked about “Leadership and Communication.” Being a leader herself for three terms as the National President and now the first and only Chair Emeritus of ASP, Ms. Koe gave inspiration to all participants as she shared her knowledge and expertise. The participants also enjoyed the said lecture because of the many exciting games that Ms. Koe prepared for them.

Ms. Dang Koe with the KPVI Volunteers during the training

Aspiring and seasoned volunteers also have the opportunity to hear from the expert, former Executive Director Ranil Sorongon, talked about the “Rights of Children with Disabilities.” Parents and a grandmother of a CWD were so glad to hear it from the expert; while most of the participants said that it was their first time to learn about the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).

The group also invited speakers from the different Parent Organization Group like Mr. Pong Tee of ADHD and Ms. Nieves Reyes of DSAPI came with sister Clara, a smart girl with Down Syndrome. Professionals such as Dr. Ferdiliza Garcia, Teacher Mark Anthony Padil, Ms. Mayumi Gonzalez, Ms. Chat Paran, Ms. Grace Barcelona, Mr. Aries Burgonio, Mr. Tam Austria, Ms. Faye Roderos, Mr. Ryan Cachola, Dr. Gomez and Ms. Catherine Genovia were also on hand to provide guidance to the participants.

KPVI or formerly known as PVI Foundation Inc. is a non-stock non-profit organization, composed of volunteer students and professionals committed to the welfare and development of children with special needs: children who are intellectually and physically challenged; children with autism or with Down Syndrome; street smart children, and the abandoned from different government and private institutions, special schools and private homes.

The KPVI members are actively and regularly volunteers in ASP’s special events. Its founders Derly Salud, Emmy Cura, Reynaldo San Agustin, Jun Salengga and Penny Perfecto, together with its officers encouraged all the volunteers to join and assist ASP in special events.

The 37th Kamp Pagkakaisa, dubbed as “Mga Batang Espesyal Kaisa ng Barkadahan sa Binangonan” will be held in Binangonan Rizal. Kamp Director, Ms. Lea Lou Bautista will lead the almost 350 delegates for a 10-day Therapeutic Summer Camp. Trustee Jan Peña and son Muneer and Benjamin “Budong” Gaban of ASP Diliman, former ASP Program Assistant, Abby Mendoza and Cathy Genovia will be part of the delegation.

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Posted in: community,seminar,volunteers

ASP Sta. Rosa’s Lakbay Aral at ASP Biñan

ASP Sta. Rosa member parents and PWAS’s visited ASP Biñan -- one of the newest additions to our family of advocates -- last 24 March 2015. The group learned about the livelihood program of ASP Biñan and even had the chance to tour the Binan SPED Center and our PWA’s even get the chance to try out their wonderful amenities.

Participants of the lakbay aral

The activity was a good opportunity to learn and identify areas for collaboration between thetwo chapters. ASP Sta. Rosa is very thankful to the warm accommodation extended by the ASP Biñan family headed by its president Carolyn Sumague.

About the Contributor. Olive Medina is mom to CWA Enzo and his baby sister Lizzie. Aside from fulfilling her duties as a wife and mother, she works as General Manager for a logistics company, a part time college lecturer and part time yoga instructor. She is also the president of ASP Sta. Rosa Chapter.

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Posted in: chapters,community,education,regional