ASP Project Gourm-A showcases an Autism-OK dining experience

As we anticipate the global commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day, the Autism Society Philippines invites all to a Project Gourm-A [gur-'may] Autism-OK dinner on 30 March 2019, Saturday, at the Vatel Restaurant Manila on the roof deck of the Hotel Benilde in Manila City (Map: https://goo.gl/maps/3ydyiJDoh3v).

This ASP Autism Works x Project Gourm-A event aims to discover and show off skills of individuals on the spectrum in the restaurant industry. These encounters inspire acceptance, accommodation and appreciation of persons with autism through delivery of an autism-inclusive dining experience, development of employability skills of persons with autism in the food industry, development of autism-inclusive workplaces, and exposure of professionals in the food and hospitality industries to neurodiverse individuals.

"A Project GourmA event, as always, promises to be an intimate, sumptuous dinner. We dine. We have fun. We celebrate diversity and inclusion." shares ASP National President Mona Magno-Veluz. "This project, which is among Autism Works pillars, allows the general public to experience how many young adults on the autism spectrum are ready for employment in the food and restaurant industry."

Project Gourm-A Digital poster at Vatel Restaurant Manila

This year's event is done in partnership with the De la Salle-College of Saint Benilde family -- the Center for Inclusive Education, the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management, and Vatel Restaurant Manila; with the participation of student organizations Chefs in Progress and World Hoteliers in Progress. Young adults with autism will work as kitchen staff, bartenders, waiters and hosts, alongside neurotypical students to provide a unique dining experience.

"Benilde has always believed in the importance of inclusion. In providing our students with opportunities for learning, along with the necessary support and accommodations, we open doors for them to become contributing members of society" declared Ms. Nicky Templo-Perez, Director for the De la Salle-College of Saint Benilde Center for Inclusive Education. "We are so excited to be supporting ASP’s Project Gourm-A and have our students from the SHRIM organizations work with persons with autism! I’m sure it will be a powerful experience for everyone."

Dean Angelo Lacson of De la Salle-College of Saint Benilde SHRIM is among the project's enthusiastic supporters. "Embracing inclusion as School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management is not about just following the mandate of the College but rather our championing of equal opportunity and equal representation. This dinner involving young adults on the autism spectrum is our school’s initial step in providing them with hospitality and culinary enrichment options.”

The four-course French Mediterranean set-menu dinner will be overseen by the Vatel Restaurant Manila Executive Chef Pierre Cornelis.

SOUP

Curried Cauliflower with roast cashew

Or

Zucchini, garlic with crouton and mozzarella

APPETIZER

Asparagus pomelo salad with andalusia dressing

MAIN ENTRE

Beef Bourguignon

Slow braised beef in red wine, demi-glace,

onion, carrots, with potato gratin

Or

Salmon fillet with tian vegetables

Served with jasmine pilaf rice

DESSERT

Cerveza Negra and chocolate ice cream

Or

Mango crème brulee

Your minimum donation of P1,000 per head will help support ASP's programs and services for families who live with autism. Sign up below to reserve your seats for either the 6pm or the 8pm dinner service. An electronic ticket will be sent to your email to confirm your reservation.

The Autism Society Philippines, through its Autism-OK Philippines campaign, aims to build an autism-inclusive society by working proactively with the public and private sectors to create institutional mechanisms that inspire responsive policies and programs, autism-inclusive education, autism-friendly public spaces, compassionate workplaces, more transitions specialists, more professionals on the spectrum and livelihood opportunities for PWAs and their families. #AutismOKPH #TRENTAgether

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Posted in: autism-works,employment,food,fundraising,gourm-a,partners,university

WeeComm takes a big step towards inclusion

Wee Community Developers Inc. is the premier developer of commercial projects in Metro Manila and several provincial locations. Their management team is composed of young and idealistic developers who still believe that development should not be profit but by client satisfaction. They have also taken the non-traditional path by committing to a disability inclusive workplace.

Ms Mona Veluz with Mr. Cesar Wee

Mr. Cesar Wee, Chief Executive Officer of Wee Community Developers, met with ASP National President Mona Magno-Veluz in February 2018 to discuss his aspirations to enrich their company's workforce with neuro-diverse contributors. He has heard about the success of the Autism Works program; and wanted to leverage on the organization's experience across several industries. With support from the highest level, the recruitment process for the perfect candidate to fill an open role began.

Within two months, the job offer was made to JB Tiamson, an articulate Business major from La Salle College Antipolo, with a keen eye for details. He made an impression on his interviewers because he asked the right questions and passed the trade tests with flying colors. He signed on as a full-time employee, assigned to the Finance and Administration Group. With this hire, the doors to the real estate industry opened for Autism Works!

Ms Mona Veluz with Mr. Cesar Wee
during the MOU signing

In commemoration of World Autism Acceptance Month, a formal MOU signing happened at the WeeComm headquarters in San Juan, Metro Manila on 6 April 2018, attended by the company's top management. The partnership outlines each party's commitment to providing ample education and support towards the successful assimilation of persons with autism in the company.

The MOU signing was followed by a sensitivity training for the leadership team and the Documentation Department where JB will be assigned. The team gamely wore "ASP green," cementing our shared advocacy towards genuine autism acceptance, accommodation and appreciation in the workplace.

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Posted in: autism-works,corporate,partners

Free consultation with Pediatric Gastroenterologist for CWAs

Many children with autism spectrum disorder have associated medical conditions which may include gastrointestinal concerns. Core deficits in social communication and interaction serve as barriers to identify this correctly. This is why ASP is partnering with The Medical City in Pasig to help validate a parent questionnaire that will help diagnose GI concerns in children with limited communication skills.

The Medical City Building

We are inviting families who live with autism for a free consultation with a pediatric gastroenterologist at the Medical City. The consultation with the specialist is FREE -- participants would simply need to be able to independently go to The Medical City in Ortigas Avenue, Pasig and to answer a questionnaire regarding your child's GI problems.

Participants to this initiative must:
- Be children, aged 4 to 12 years old.
- Must bring a formal autism diagnosis.
- With and without GI concerns (such as chronic stomach aches, vomitting, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, among others).

This initiative is part of research on Gastrointestinal Symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder by Dr. Jean Dy. This will be supervised and co-authored by Dr. Lourdes Tanchanco, a Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician and Dr. Almida Reodica, a Pediatric Gastroenterologist.

ASP leaders are encouraged to promote this within their communities and LGUs. It is open to all families with autism, even those who are not members of ASP.

Please fill out the on-line form below and you will receive a call or text from Dr. Jean Dy with your appointment. Please hurry as there are limited slots.

UPDATE: This offer is no longer available. Please communicate directly with Medical City.

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Posted in: hospital,medical,partners

Legazpi City advocates visit the ASP Laguna Autism Resource Center

Autism Resource Center (ARC) of ASP Laguna welcomed visitors from Legaspi City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and The Bridge Community represented by Arnel and Tiena Megino last 15 April 2015.

Ms. Merlene G. Menaya lead the visit as part of the “Annual Skills Enhancement and Exposure Tour” accompanied by Los Baños SWO III, Ms. Hanna Erika Erasga-Lavinia. It started with the orientation by the ASP Laguna Chapter President, Ms. Cathy Lopez. The group joined the trainees in the Aerobics activity headed by Ms. Deborah Sanchez, ARC Program Assistant and Ms. Ardee Deang, one of the volunteers of ARC. Quoted by one of the visitors, “I like this activity, it was such a wonderful experience to join the young adults with disabilities in executing physical activities. It reminds me to be health conscious as I shed sweat and followed the movements of the upbeat music.”

The Legaspi City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO)

After spending time with the trainees, they were grouped into three and had a tour of the different stations. Ms. Vay Chavez explained the diner services in station 1; while Ms. Debs Sanchez shared the information on arts and crafts in making angel products in station 2. She also explained the process in maximizing scrap paper in making paper briquette. On the third station, Ms. Cathy Lopez elaborated more on the office and messengerial works. An open forum was held after the tour followed by filling up of evaluation forms. The tour in ARC ended with a photo op with the visitors.

Together with a parent and ARC volunteer, Mr. Eman Teodoro, they headed to Los Baños Community Center for Therapy Interventions and Support Services (LBCCTISS) located in Barangay Baybayin. Mr. Genaro Calderon, a parent leader, gave a short briefing on the history of the Center and its services. The group familiarized themselves with the facilities with the help of LBAPCD (Los Baños Association of Parents of Children with Disabilities) officers, Ms. Sally Solinap and June Gupo. Ms. Amorlina Cotoner also joined in welcoming the guests.

The guests visited two centers: ARC and LBCCTISS. ARC is one of the programs of ASP-Laguna Chapter which provides a work, live and play program to young adults with autism and other disabilities. On the other hand, LBCCTISS is one of the projects of ASP Laguna Chapter in partnership with the local government and a foreign grant support. LBCCTISS, inaugurated last 17 September 2014, caters to children with disabilities age 13 years old and below.

The couple Arnel and Tiena Megino expressed their intention to volunteer with ASP Laguna Chapter on its activities during their stay, which will last until August 2016. The couple are part of The Bridge Community, which is involved in water filtration ministry in the Philippines through its “Isaiah Project.”

About the Author. Ms. Catherine L. Lopez obtained her Bachelor of Elementary Education, Major in Special Education at San Pablo Colleges and her Master of Arts in Education, Major in Special Education at Jose Rizal University. She is the Job Coach for the office and messenger services of Autism Resource Center. She also serves as the President of ASP Laguna Chapter and cluster head for ASP chapters in South Luzon. She is a mother of a young adult with autism who graduated from UP Los Baños in 2017.

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Posted in: chapters,partners,regional

A Joint Position on PWD ID Classification

Members of the Autism Society Philippines have escalated, over the years, various concerns regarding the existing classification of disabilities used for the issuance of PWD IDs -- such as falling under multiple classifications, "shame" in declaring autism as a disability, lack of the requisite formal assessment, inability of the issuing office to confirm the disability, merchants who give PWD discounts only if the disabled person is puchasing -- not the parents, among many, many others.

With the instruction of the Department of Health (DOH), the Autism Society Philippines organized an unprecedented meeting to arrive at a common position in classifying neuro-developmental disabilities in the issuance of PWD IDs. Representatives from the Philippine Society of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (PSDBP), ADHD Society of the Philippines, Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines (DSAPI), Occupational Therapy Association of the Philippines (OTAP), Philippine Association of Speech Pathologists (PASP) and ASP worked as partners and stakeholders intent to contributing to the proper and accurate classification of non-physical disabilities.

ASP Trustees with the other PWD organization

The group agreed to pass the following recommendations to the Department of Health (DOH) for its consideration in the classification of disabilities eligible for PWD IDs:

1. That a new classification for NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS be created, which is congruent with medical definitions of disabilities. The current classification (learning impairment, mental impairment, speech impairment, physco-social impairment) do not accurately and appropriately categorize individuals with ADHD, autism, Down Syndrome, and others.

2. That the diagnosis for NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS, shall be accepted only if certification comes from specialists, such as developmental pediatricians, neurologists, child psychiatrists, when such practitioner is available. Furthermore, there should be a provision for training specific medical personnel in areas where above specialists are not accessible. LGU PDAO workers or even barangay health workers are not qualified to diagnose Neurodevelopmental Disorders.

3. That, instead of putting the specific disability on the card, the general classification (i.e. Neurodevelopmental Disability) shall be stated. This helps parents or individuals from openly declaring their child’s disability and will stop establishments from withholding benefits arbitrarily based on specific disabilities.

4. That specific disabilities should still be listed in the LGU’s database in order to build a prevalence by locality. LGUs be provided with a process for reporting the statistics and for making these statistics available to stakeholders. The availability of these statistics will help grassroots advocates identify locations where services are most needed.

5. Proper orientation of agencies dispensing benefits (e.g., drug stores, restaurants) should be made so that PWDs are not denied discount privileges.

Update: The abovementioned recommendations were discussed with a DOH in hearing conducted on 27 February 2015. Dr. Marie Arranz-Lim, immediate past President of PSDBP, presented the position paper in behalf of the group.

About the contributor: Cecile Sicam is one of the 11 original founders of the Autism Society Philippines. She has served ASP in many capacities, as President from 2000 to 2004; and as its current Secretary. Inspired by her PWA son Likas, Ces has been instrumental in the founding of Professionals for Autism Foundation, Inc., Center for Autism and Related Disorders, the Philippine Association for Behavioral Analysis, and Bridges Foundation where she is currently its Directress. She taught SpEd for three years Santa Clara, California; and came back to serve Filipino children with special needs. Her adult son is employed full time as RnB Ice Plant.

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Posted in: government,health,partners

Autism Society Philippines and SAP partner to improve autism care

In a first for the Asia Pacific region, Care Circles will make it easier for Filipino families who live with autism to connect with the global and local advocacy and healthcare communities. Download press release here.

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) and SAP today announced a pilot project in the Philippines which aims to improve the quality of care provided to those with autism. At the center of the pilot is Care Circles, an SAP service for tablets and smartphones similar to a private social network.

This project marks the first national pilot of Care Circles, the first in the Asia Pacific region, and the first outside the United States. Care Circles helps patients and their families connect with advocacy and healthcare programs and providers, which provide best practices in self-care and caregiving. This service helps create healthier lives by enabling communities and empowering families to care for each other.

Edler Panlilio, SAP Senior Director, Enterprise with ASP's (L-R) Auditor Peng So,
President Mona Magno-Veluz and Trustee Grace Adviento at the MOU signing

“Tens of millions of people in Asia live with autism, and they are typically supported by a circle of caregivers. Care Circles can help these caregivers improve the lives of those living with autism through best practices and collaboration,” said Andy David, Director for Healthcare in the Asia Pacific at SAP. “Social networks can provide great support to people who have unique interests or feel stigmatized, and so we believe Care Circles, as a private social network for healthcare, can help improve lives. It brings the benefits of social networks to healthcare.”

Through the pilot, the Autism Society Philippines will share Philippine-specific resources, expert content and family-centric insights on autism which will be accessible to people using Care Circles. The ASP aims to complement their efforts in family- and community-based rehabilitation with technologies that their network of families, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists and developmental pediatricians can use for the care of Filipinos with autism. The ASP is hopeful that with widespread adoption, the solution will help crowdsource answers to questions on prevalence, incidence and impact of autism on the Philippine population.

“Autism is a lifetime condition. With Care Circles, the case management of individuals with autism will now be a social experience shared with his circle of ‘guardian angels’ from childhood to their transition to adulthood,” said Erlinda Koe, Chair Emeritus of the Autism Society Philippines.

Care Circles helps people learn about a family member's condition, share knowledge, and track daily progress. Care Circles also provides a platform to publish best practices. In addition, Care Circles lets people collaborate through a private journal to take preventative action and track daily progress.

Care Circles is available for iPhone and iPad from the App Store. Philippine-specific content from the Autism Society Philippines will be available in January 2015.

SAP has made waves in the autism community in April 2014 for its "Autism at Work" program. They envisioned that by 2020, one percent of SAP's global workforce will be on the spectrum. Their paid internship and full employment programs runs in India, United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Ireland and Germany.

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Posted in: partners,press-release,sap,technology

Exceptional Soccer

Despite the gloomy weather, 11 children with autism from ASP joined the Exceptional Children Soccer (E-Soccer) program held at The Camp in Taguig City last 02 August 2014, which intended to create awareness for the needs of special kids through sports and to launch E-Soccer Philippines as an organization that would create sustainable program for these kids.

Carol de Vega, the lead organizer, said that the event aims to make the community aware that children with special needs are also into sports, which in turn helps boost their confidence. She also emphasized that thru this clinic, volunteers will take away their fears in handling children with special needs, by interacting with them. De Vega is a mother of a child with autism and is a volunteer of E-Soccer in the United States.

“My son, Al, really enjoyed playing soccer because he loves balls, he love sports, and he loves everything that is round,” Mommy Rae of Pasay Chapter said. Al’s trainers had special praises for him because he listened well to their instruction, even if he cannot speak. “It helps him socialize and he is very happy, kapag sports na ang ginagawa nya. It helps lalo na sa sensory problem ng isang batang may autism,” the proud mom said. She was also happy to learn that the lady volunteers were attracted to Al’s cuteness.

PWAs enjoy playing soccer

Romeo and Jeng Rodriguez of UP-CAMP Manila made this event an opportunity to bond with their son, Rolo. Both parents were proud to see their son playing soccer. “He seemed to understand that the reason he is kicking the ball is to make a goal. He would not make such a move unless he likes it,” Romeo said. “My son likes to run and the court was a really big place for him to run around. It was a good break from his usual routine, for we don’t have much area in the house to run,” Jeng said. Both parents agreed that sports clinic like this helps develop a child with autism. “This type of clinic helps special kids enjoy the game. It provides the kids a break from their routines and hopefully help them have more focus in whatever they do,” he said. Jeng mentioned that Rolo often watch soccer games on TV with his father, who is a soccer fanatic. So playing on the real soccer field helps Rolo build his interest in the game. Both parents agreed that the clinic should continue or have multiple sessions, in order for children with autism to develop, learn and hone their skills. “I wouldn’t be surprised if I hear Rolo say “Go to Football Clinic on Aug 2” next year. If he can remember it, that means he liked it,” Jeng said.

E-Soccer is an all-volunteer, inclusive soccer program for typical and special needs children in the US. It started in the year 2000 at Foster City, California and spread throughout California. It is currently expanding outside the US. Bangalore, India and Nairobi, Kenya are now part of the global locations of the organization. The purpose of the organization is to provide soccer workshops which will promote leadership, social, character, and athletic development for children.

About the contributor: Raphael Torralba is the Program Coordinator of ASP and its resident photographer. He is a former media photojournalist and a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Computer-Based Information Systems. His advocacy to serve the PWD community has been recognized by the National Council on Disability Affairs. Raph's youngest brother, Patrick, is on the spectrum.

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Posted in: community,partners,sports

UP-UST Students: Making Friends and Inspiring Change

The 4th annual UP-UST Friendship Meet saw Speech Language Pathology students from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and the University of the Philippines-Manila (UP-M) coming together to form friendships and to learn more about their future profession last 11 January 2014, at the Quadricentennial Park of UST. They decided to make it more special by inviting parents and children of the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) and Bantay Bata.

UP-UST Students SLP, ASP Families and Bantay Bata group

With the theme Take the Leap: InSPiring Change One Day at a Time, the event started off with Mrs. Ma. Georgina D. Mojica, CSP-PASP, MHPEd, chairperson of the SLP Department of UST, giving the opening remarks. She welcomed both the UP students and the ASP visitors to UST and commented on how far the SLP education has gone, with the Cebu Doctors University in Cebu City offering BS Speech-Language Pathology as well. She hoped that this will lead the profession farther as well, where it will be able to help more people. Lastly, she wished everyone a successful and fulfilling day.

The event was emceed by Ms. Adrienne Dela Cruz, Mr. Terence Piodos and Mr. Marco Quimpo, and they got the crowd pumped up with a few minutes of exercise followed by a series of games that the students and the children were all eager to join. Finally, after an hour of fun activities, everyone was ready to dig into their lunch. As the crowd ate and got their fill, students from both universities took the stage and performed songs to keep everyone entertained. Raffle prizes were also given before the program officially resumed.

At noontime, the children were escorted into the Carnival by their respective ‘buddies,’ their ates and kuyas from UP and UST. The Carnival is a series of game booths arranged by the fourth year SLP students of UST for the children to enjoy. All the students made sure that the children enjoyed the games as safely as possible. Free dirty ice cream was also available for everyone to indulge in. While the kids were playing, the parents were then escorted into Room 125 of the St. Martin de Porres Building of UST to attend a seminar on the Red Flags for Speech-Language Development by Ms. Joyce Anne Ponciano, CSP-PASP. Social workers from Bantay Bata also attended the seminar and both visitors from Bantay Bata and ASP were very participative and asked a lot of questions. Afterwards, raffle items like household materials, cellphone and gift bags from Blue Magic were given away.

By 2:30, after eating their snacks, the visitors from ASP and Bantay Bata left UST with smiles on their faces. However, the day was not yet over for the UP and UST students. The event continued with more games and team building activities, including an Amazing Race especially arranged by the Collegiate Association of Speech Pathologists (CASP) of UP-M.

At 4pm, everyone went to the Education Auditorium of the Albertus Magnus Building of UST for a talk about the importance of volunteerism and community-building by Sir Ivan Neil B. Gomez, MAED, OT, OTRP, UST-SIMBAHAYAN-Community Development Coordinator of the College of Rehabilitation Sciences. To close the event, Mr. John Arden S. Romanillos, President of the SLP Society, reminded everyone why they were here: to give help to those who need it, to take the leap and inspire change without expecting anything in return because what’s the value of material rewards when compared with a grateful smile?

About the Author: Courtney Chua is an incoming fourth year B.S. Speech-Language Pathology student in the University of Santo Tomas (UST). She served as the Internal Vice President of the UST Speech-Language Pathology Society last academic year 2013-2014

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Posted in: chapters,community,partners,university

The Third Good Autism Practice Conference

The Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Inc. – Professionals for Autism Foundation, Inc. (CARD, Phils. PAFI) will be having a one-day enablement entitled “The 3rd Good Autism Practice (GAP 3) Conference” on 29 June 2014, Sunday, 8am to 5pm, at UNILAB Bayanihan Center, Pioneer Street, Mandaluyong City.

The speakers include Dr. Alexis Reyes (Developmental Pediatrician), Dr. Juan Rapadas (Clinical Psychologist), Ms. Mae Sadicon (Speech-Language Pathologist), Ms. Lady Suarez (Occupational Therapist), Ms. Sunny Escareal-Velasco (Academics and Programs Director, CARD, Phils-PAFI), Ms. Cecile Sicam (Directress, Bridges Foundation, Inc.) and Ms. Matec Villanueva (Chief Executive Officers, Publicis Manila)

REGISTRATION DETAILS:

Foreign Participants
Early Bird Fee - $ 100.00
(until June 10, 2014)

Regular Fee - $ 150.00

Local Participants
Early Bird Fee - Php 2,500
(until June 10, 2014)

Regular Fee - Php 3,000

Registration fees include conference kit, certificate of attendance and lunch. For more details please visit CARD, Phils. –PAFI.

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Posted in: conference,partners

ASP Molino partners with Special Happy Smile

“Special Happy Smiles” is a dental mission by the Cavite Dental Association, with a long history of partnership with the Autism Society Philippines.

Special Happy Smile in Cavite Pediatric Dentistry Center

ASP Molino Chapter hosted the first round of the dental mission on 7 May 2013 in Crest View Academy of Cavite. The follow-up event was “Understanding Dental Patients with Autism,” a seminar for parents on “Dental Health and Hygiene” by Dr. Ryan de Guzman, and the actual fluoridation procedure for the CWAs by a number of participating partner dentists. The newly-opened Cavite Pediatric Dentistry Center (CPDC) was the venue of “Special Happy Smiles” last August 2013, as well as the one held that 15 April 2014.

ASP thanks Dr. Ryan for finding time and avenues on how he could help the less fortunate. We wish him continued success and much success as a professional and advocate.

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Posted in: community,partners

PBA, SM Cares hold 1st basketball clinic for special kids

This article appeared on 9 April 2014, Wednesday in The Philippine Star.

The first-ever basketball clinic for special children was held over the weekend conducted by coaches of the Philippine Basketball Association All-Star at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Some 20 children with Down Syndrome and Autism were treated to an afternoon of basketball game and relays to introduce them to the sports as one of the activities in the 2014 PBA All-Star Week festivities at the MOA.

PBA Basketball with balls

Co-sponsored by the PBA and MOA Arena and SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, the children were taught dribbling, passing the ball, ball handling and shooting by PBA All Star coach Tim Cone, SanMig assistant coaches Richard Del Rosario and Jeffrey Cariaso and San Sebastian coach Topex Robinson.

Arnold Alegre, who took some of the kids to the basketball clinic, said they are delighted that the PBA coaches took time out from their busy schedules to be with the special children to conduct the first of its kind in the country.

He said playing sports is one of the best therapies that should be given to children with Down Syndrome and Autism because it teaches them focus, improves their physical development and gives them the chance to bond with other kids.

"Sports boosts confidence and they get to interact with other 'children. That opens up a whole lot of experience for them which improves their well-being," Alegre, a special education teacher said who has made helping special children a lifelong commitment.

One example he said is one of his stu­dents, Paul Garcia, a child with autism and one of the participants in the sports. clinic. "He was not interested in sports before, he was fat. He did not want to do anything. So we started to have him into some physical activity. He had strength and that was why he got into weight-lifting. The first year he joined the Paralympics, he became the national champion," he said.

He said society should be more open to people with autism and Down Syndrome because they could be productive members of the society if given all the support.

"We have to see beyond the disability. We have to remove the dis from disability because they have the drive to attain the skill they can be interested in. It's very easy to teach them because they value routine and they are good at it. You teach them a certain drill or ritual once and they remember it for the rest of their lives. They stick to it. But this could only be achieved if we train them. We have to make them productive," he said.

Alegre said they are thankful to the SM group for its never-ending support. "It's not hard to talk to them especially for the causes we push. They always have a heart for PWDs. They always give their all-out support just like for this project," he said.

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Posted in: authletics,partners,self-advocates,sm,sports

Discovering Best Buddies

Many of us have long recognized that the deficits associated with autism has made it difficult for young adults on the spectrum to connect with people their age, more so, make life-long friendships. Many long for the company of friends -- which is different from being with their parents, their family or their caregivers.

Best Buddies is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), founded by Anthony K. Shriver in 1989. Their programs include opportunities at the middle school, high school and collegiate levels. For adults, the Best Buddies Citizen program pairs adults with similar interests to be “buddies” through regular shared activities. While the initial commitment is only one year, the mutual benefit of these creative friendships have paved the way for lifelong connections.

Rhodora Fresnedi, host of the BB training, with ASP Trustees (L-R) Peng So, Carmel Almendrala, Mona Veluz and Cecille Sicam

Best Buddies has a strong presence in Latin and North America, Europe and other parts of Asia; but Best Buddies Cebu is one of their older chapters, having existed for twenty years in ten regional universities. The Autism Society Philippines is among the institutions eager to explore the offerings of the recently established Best Buddies Manila. Diana Rihl, Deputy Director of International Programs from Best Buddies HQ, assisted by Dr. Angelina Onrubia, Best Buddies Manila Program Director, gave a briefing to ASP and other potential partner institutions like Unilab, SHINE, One World, ILLC, Bridges Foundation. DSAPI, Xavier School, International School, British School Manila, among others, last 15 February 2014. The half-day session educated potential Best Buddies advisers on the tools and techniques necessary to roll out the Best Buddies chapter.

The Autism Society Philippines is looking into launching the BB Citizen Program for our PWA members. Stay tuned for more details!

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Posted in: community,friendship,partners

ASP UP-CAMP awarded IBF grant

ASP UP-CAMP Manila, through the mentoring of Mr. Ranil Sorongon and Ms. Carmel Almendrala of ASP National, was formally awarded a grant by the International Bazaar Foundation to execute their “Early Steps Project.” A formal awarding ceremony took place last 10 September 2013 at the Department of Foreign Affairs Building, along Roxas Boulevard in Manila.

Mr. Ranil signing for the document of awarded IBF grant

“Early Steps Project” community-based rehabilitation project strengthens the chapter and empowers neighbors to take control over the therapy and education of children with autism, through:

- Provision of basic therapy and tutorials to children with autism, who belong to the economically challenged families in the City of Manila and nearby places.
- Provision of information and skills to parents of children with autism and volunteers on how to manage children with autism.
- Provision of opportunity to the officers, members and volunteers of ASP UP-CAMP Manila to conduct basic therapy and education services for children with autism.
- Build a family support system where parents, siblings and CWAs who are part of the Chapter are inspired and motivated by their peers.
- Working together to acquire additional support from institutions and non-government organizations.

The International Bazaar is an annual event, led by the Diplomatic and Consular Corps and local concessionaires are sold. The IBF creates a global shopping experience for Filipinos; while providing services to local communities through the capital generated.

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Posted in: cbr,chapters,community,grant,leaders,partners

PVI Volunteers getting ready for the summer camp

By Cath Genovia, ASP Program Assistant and PVI Volunteer Batch 2004

Teacher My Sorongon and Chair Emeritus, Dang Koe gave lectures to 65 aspiring and seasoned volunteers of Pagkakaisa Volunteers Inc. (PVI) last February 10 and March 3 respectively. The said participants also gave their 1Pangako Pledge as a support for ASP’s campaign to stop the use of the word “autistic” in a derogatory way.

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 children, and the abandoned from different government and private institutions, special schools and private homes. PVI members are actively and regularly volunteers in ASP’s special events.

Logo PVI

Aspiring PVI volunteers are required to attend a Training Series to help them face the challenges of dealing with different kinds of children with special needs (like autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, deafness and others with disabilities). Volunteers will serve as counselors or the campers' ate's and kuya's during the yearly camp.

The PVI Volunteers will be holding their 35th Kamp Pagkakaisa in Alfonso Cavite headed by its Kamp Director, Kuya Pio Fortuno Jr. ASP Alfonso Cavite Chapter President, Ms. Jeanette Vidallon partnered with Kuya Ron San Agustin, PVI Volunteer, will be this year’s Local Kamp Coordinators. The PVI family is also thankful for all the support of ASP National President, Mary Janette Peña, ASP Cavite Chapters and Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon.

My Sorongon, ASP EDEIP (Early Detection and Early Intervention Program) Trainer and PVI’s favorite speaker on autism made an exclusively template for PVI. Patterning after ASP’s Mall Orientation format, “Handling special customers” thus for PVI, its “Understanding your CWAs (Campers with Autism)”.

Aspiring Volunteers who will be future leaders have the opportunity to hear from the expert as she talked about Leadership, Ms. Dang Koe who led ASP for three terms as the National President and now as the first and only Chair Emeritus of ASP.

The group also invited speakers from the different Parent Organization Group like Atty. Rey Reyes Jr. of DSAPI and Mr. Pong Tee of ADHD, also professional and expert speakers from their field and a member of ASP like Teacher Landa Bautista, Teacher Randy Tallorin, Teacher Mark Anthony Padil and Dr. Ferdiliza Garcia.

ASP Angels Abby Mendoza, Cricel Elises and yours truly are all active volunteers of PVI and will be this year’s Kamp Treasurer, Kamp Secretary and Activity Coordinator respectively.

Click links below to view the pictures during the trainings.
For 2nd Training
For 3rd Training
For 4th Training

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Posted in: partners,seminar,volunteers

Iconic AutiSM Moments at SM MOA Arena

By Tiffany Tan, ASP Correspondent

The Philippines’ newest ultra-modern sports and entertainment facility, the SM Mall of Asia Arena, rolled out the red carpet, once again, to the Autism Society Philippines. ASP representatives were treated to the grand launch of the SM Arena, dubbed “Icons,” a two-hour concert featuring the Philippines’ top OPM singers, last 16 June 2012 at 08:00 pm.

ASP Family watching Iconic AutiSM Moments

Mr. Henry Sy, founder of SM Group and chairman of SM Prime Holdings, also 2012 Forbes Magazine’s richest Filipino, with US$9.1Billion to his credit, was honored on this special occasion. Mr. Hans Sy, President of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. paid tribute to his father’s legacy during his address.

Filipino artists, who have helped raised funds for ASP and persons with autism in the past, like Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez and Christian Bautista, led other eminent songsters to serenade an audience nearly 20,000 strong.

Days before the launch, ASP Trustee Peng So, gave an Autism Orientation to some 200 new personnel of SM MOA Arena on 14 June 2012. Eng. Bien Mateo, Director of SM Program for Disability Affairs (SM-PDA) ensured that SM-PDA will continue working towards a barrier-free and non-handicapping environment for persons with autism and their families.

Cecile Sicam (Vice President), Evelyn Go (Treasurer), Trustees Grace Adviento with husband Glen; Trustee Gina Bermudo with husband Lito; Trustees Carmel Almendrala and Peng So and former Trustee Barbara Lu and this author; plus ASP UP CAMP Chapter Secretary, Jeng Rodriguez and husband Romeo were joined by their children (both with autism and neuro-typicals) and their care givers. Trustee Ging Viado rubbed elbows with soap opera star and celebrity chefs, Janice de Belen and Marvin Agustin. The evening of music also turned out to be a fitting Fathers' Day celebration for the spouses of Trustees!

Children with autism are said to have sensory issues, but that night was a big surprise to the parents who were amazed at the sight of PWAs waving their lighted multi-colored battery operated torches. Gelo enjoyed waving the glowing torch; Angelo swayed to the infectious music; while Bryan sang-along as the OPM crooners and divas delivered their vocal symphonies.

Indeed it was an Iconic AutiSM moment for all of us and we look forward to more AutiSM partnerships in the future, perhaps the upcoming Cirque the Soliel in July?

ASP thanks SM-PDA's Eng. Bien Mateo for his generous invitation and complimentary tickets and to former Trustee Barbara Lu for kindly providing transportation to the representatives.

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Posted in: concert,partners,sm,special

PVI Fun Run breeds success

By: Thine Republica, ASP Trainee

ASP joined PVI Foundation RUN4SPEC, at Quezon Memorial Circle last 5 December 2010. RUN4SPEC is a Fun Run Awareness for Children with Special Needs said Ms. Derly Salud, one of the founding members of PVI. ASP National President, Mary Grace Adviento and ASP Executive Ranil Sorongon visited the event to show support for the 120 participants both in 2K and Buddy Run.

ASP National President, Grace Adviento (right) and ASP Executive Director,
Ranil Sorongon (left) together with PVI founding member, Derly Salud (middle)

A Total of 70 Children with Special Needs from Elsie Gaches Village, Trichet Learning Center, San Juan Pinaglabanan, Haven for Children and Virlanie Foundation joined the 500 Meters Buddy Run and the 2 Kilometer Run – with college students from Ateneo Special Education Society, St. Paul Manila, STI Taguig and STI Pasay.

Desly of SPARKLE Band (middle) clutches her medal, flanked by proud Mom Donna Lim (right) and Teacher Randy Tallorin

Distance didn’t hamper Teacher Randy Tallorin from participating; he traveled all the way from Bataan to show support. ASP members who joined the much anticipated event were SPARKLE Band’s keyboardist, Desly Bianca Lim Alvarado with mom Donna; and health buff, Herbert Tui, father to 12 year old CWA Kimberly Grace.

Dad Herbert Tui gamely posed for the cameras during the warm-up exercises

PVI Foundation Inc. (formerly known as Pagkakaisa Volunteers 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 mentally and physically challenged; children with Autism or with Down Syndrome; street children, and the abandoned from different government and private institutions, special schools and private homes. PVI is an active member of ASP and its members regularly volunteer in ASP special events.

The RUN4SPEC event culminated with awarding and gift-giving to the participants. Congratulations to PVI and thank you for supporting children with autism and their families.

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Posted in: partners,pvi,run

AutiSM spreads PWD Friendly environment to ASEAN Delegates

By Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

AutiSM is the coined name given to the partnership of SM Supermalls and Autism Society Philippines. The partnership started in 2004 and has led to an increase in PWD awareness and advocacy in different malls around the country.

ASP long time partner and Autism Angel advocates flew from SM Supermalls to the United Nations Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand for the South-to-South Cooperation on Disability Conference from August 19-20, 2010.

SM Supermalls’ delegation was headed by President, Ms. Annie Garcia and SM Program on Disability Affairs (SMPDA) Director, Eng. Bien Mateo. SM was invited to share their “PWD Integration Program” to the participants of the high level meeting.

SM Supermalls’ delegation was headed by President Ms. Annie Garcia (5th from left) and SM Program on Disability Affairs (SMPDA) Director, Eng. Bien Mateo (3rd from right)

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) include people with autism (PWA). Click here to know more about the Autism Ramp of Accessibility.

Conference Delegates compose of senior government focal points on disability and business representatives from the region of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and implementers of community-based rehabilitation from 19 countries in Asia and the Pacific.

Among them Mr. Akiie Ninomiya, Executive Director of Asia Pacific Center on Disability (APCD), Mr. Katsuji Onoda, Chief Advisor of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), JICA expert, Mr. Ryuhei Sano, and Aiko Akiyama, representative of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP).

According to Garcia, SM aims to share their corporate social responsibility on concerns for customers with special needs through their SM Cares Program. She said past experiences have taught SM to be more sensitive to the needs of PWDs; and thus the creation of SM Program on Disability Affairs in 2004.

“We believe that the greatest contribution to the burden of PWDs is the ATTITUDE of the COMMUNITY towards them. This is our biggest challenge and we face this head on,” said Garcia during her privilege speech.

Attempting to provide an inclusive environment, SM Supermalls have expanded beyond once a year celebrations by accommodating PWDs groups and their activities throughout the year.

Autism Friendly Movies

In October 2009, SM Cinema pioneered the first Sensory Friendly Movies. Here, the cinemas are adjusted to accommodate the sensory needs of persons with autism by toning down the sound systems and the turning down of pilot lights. This first run, in partnership with ASP, accommodated children with autism and their families.

CWAs with their caregivers and parents during the first sensory-friendly movie

“Seeing the emotions and happiness of the parents watching the movies together with their children with autism is so fulfilling; which strengthens our resolve to continue making a difference in the lives of PWDs.” Click here to know more about the SM event.

Colors of “A” Spectrum Project

Another one is the PWD integration through the Photography Exhibits. Initially, Certified Autism Angel, John Chua approached ASP for a pilot project – a photography workshop for children with autism.

Cavite Chapters Colors of "A" Spectrum Workshop

The pilot project aimed to create an environment for PWAs and their families to have bonding time together, through photography. Photos captured by PWAs, as well as volunteer photographers then collated as subjects of the exhibit. Due to the success of the first run, eventually, Colors of “A” Spectrum Workshop and Exhibit also catered to ASP Chapters nationwide.

With several successful runs exhibited in different SM malls, the project spins off to the creation of Photography with a Difference-Touching Lives Through Photography or simply known as PWD. The PWD Project extends the same concept to other PWD groups.

Other Collaborative Projects

The National Autism Consciousness Week, a week-long celebration mandated by Presidential Proclamation 711 is also supported by SM Supermalls. For the last three years, SM Mall of Asia, one of the largest malls in the world, hosted the Angels Walk for Autism, gathering more than 5,000 participants this year. Other ASP Chapters also held their own walks in SM branches. Click here to read more.

From Left, Ms. Janina San Miguel, ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe, Cong. Tieng of Buhay Party List , NCDA Chairperson Lovely Romulo,President SM Prime Hans Sy, President SM Supermalls, Ms. Annie Garcia, Director SM Program on Disability Affairs Engr. Bien Mateo and ASP President Grace Adviento

During April 2, the UN Declared World Autism Awareness Day is also celebrated with SM Supermalls as partners. Click here to read more.

ASP Talents during the World Autism Awareness Day at SM North EDSA

Understanding Special Customers, one of their projects also collaborates with ASP and other PWD groups to inform mall frontliners about autism as a means to equip them on how to better serve special customers. To date, ASP has oriented more than 20,000 guards, housekeepers and others in different SM malls nationwide.

SM Orientation at SM Mall of Asia

Other projects also include Family Day Celebrations, Painting Exhibits, Seminars and Conferences. One of the most recent one is the 2009 Autism Beyond Borders, the first Southeast Asian Conference on Autism, at SMX Complex.

the first Southeast Asian Conference on Autism, at SMX Complex

“We strongly believe that by making their presence felt and integrating PWDs in our malls, we are helping in changing the attitude of the society towards them,” concluded Garcia.

“We are here because we see, we think and we talk business and committing ourselves to implement an inclusive CSR is good for business. We shall carry on with collaborating with partners and stake holders to continue leading this initiative in the Philippines, and eventually, in other ASEAN Countries.”

Acknowledgments: ACPD, JICA, ESCAP, SM Supermalls and SMPDA.

ASP continues to keep you informed about the latest news on Autism Angels. Are you an Angel for Autism? Make AUTISM your Corporate Social Responsibility Project. Be pro-active and help a more than 500 thousand Filipino families dealing with autism everyday. DONATE generously to ASP Programs and Services. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 926-6941 or 929-8447 for ASP collaborative projects.

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Posted in: corporate,partners,sm

ASP Joins 7th Cerebral Palsy Awareness and Protection Week Celebration

ASP joins the opening ceremony of the nation-wide celebration of the 7th Cerebral Palsy Awareness and Protection Week at SM Sky Dome, SM North EDSA last 16 September 2010.

Hoping to develop, nurture and expand networks in the disability sector, ASP National Office, headed by ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe, were joined by Grace Adviento (President), Peng So (VP), Evelyn Go (Treasurer), Carmel Almendrala (Trustee) and Ranil Sorongon (Executive Director).

From left: Peng So, ASP- Vice President, Dang Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus,

Arch. Rizal Morales and Mr. Lauro Purcil UNCRPD Philippine Commitee Head.

ASP members from Stimulation and Therapeutic Activity Center (STAC) Quezon, headed by their president Ms. Aileen Zapanta also joined the event.

The ceremony started with a Eucharistic Celebration, followed by a formal opening and Family Day activities. The week-long celebration spearheaded by the Cerebral Palsied Association of the Philippines (CPAP) will culminate on Tuesday, September 22nd.

ASP would like to thank and congratulate Arch. Rizal Morales, Chair of this year’s celebrations and Ms. Charito Manglapus, the dedicated president CPAP.

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Posted in: disability,ngo,partners

Give in to Giving

Thank Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf for giving the Autism Society Philippines a big boost and for giving us a platform to educate the public about autism.

Give in to Giving Stamp Card

This Christmas, help keep ASP's advocacy going:

1. Drop by the nearest Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf with your family and friends.
2. Drink to your health. Coffee and Tea are rich in anti-oxidants and protects the body from free-radicals.
3. Ask for the Give in to Giving Stamp Card. Each beverage you buy earns you a stamp. Complete all 12.
4. Make Autism Society Philippines your advocacy of choice. You not only bring awareness and education to the families of children with autism, you also get a limited edition artist’s notebook.
5. Spread the word and have a Merry Christmas!

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf branches are located at TriNoMa, SM The Block, Gateway, Ortigas Park, Paseo Center, Bonifacio High Street, Mall of Asia, Convergys Ayala Avenue, Salcedo Village, Alabang Town Center, Rockwell, Robinson’s Ermita, Greenhills Promenade, Robinson’s Galleria, Eastwood, Tomas Morato and 2 more branches in Cebu. Visit their homepage at http://coffeebean.com.ph

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Posted in: cbtl,christmas,partners,promo