Thoughts of a speech pathologist-to-be

After knowing that I was to be one of the speakers in this year’s Angels Walk, mixed emotions begin to flood in. I for one am not a confident speaker and it felt as if I was not good enough for the part since I was still just a student. But then realization struck upon me that it does not matter what one’s occupation may be, anyone can be a part of this for as long as you have care and compassion. With that in mind, I was able to deliver my speech with utmost sincerity. My heart goes to everyone with ASD.

Being a speech language pathology student, I see the need to increase the awareness about ASD. With increased awareness, more people will be more understanding and helpful. One does not need to show grand gestures, being kind and understanding is more than enough. Also, to make a better world for them and for all of us, we should not be judgmental because we are all uniquely created by God and ASD is something one should not be ashamed of. We should not make anybody feel as an outcast; instead we must make everyone feel that they too can be part of the bigger picture - a part of the community. Truly, acceptance of the differences we all have should be practiced by us all and it will remarkably be the start of a better world.

As early as freshman year, we were already given the chance to observe different kinds of patients that need our help including children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). According to statistics, there is a big demand of speech therapists here in the Philippines because there is a higher number of cases than the number of speech therapists available. Most of them are from Manila; others simply choose to work there. It was even mentioned during one of our seminars in school that people from provinces would go all the way to Manila just to have their children assessed because there are no available speech therapists in their place. With this said, I can feel the need to serve and come back here to work. I may still be a student, but I can already envision things I might be able to contribute in what little help I can give. It truly needs patience and understanding to make our world a better place.

I want to help and be a part of this community. One of the things we do is help children communicate or simply express themselves. To be able to express oneself, we give them a whole new perspective and lease on life. Communication is a big part of our lives and with communication comes understanding, and with understanding comes the fulfillment of things hoped for. By doing so we build a better future not just for them but for all of us as well.

I think it is important to know that we must accept that having ASD is something one shouldn’t be ashamed of. Once people start accepting, other people will come to know and be aware of it which will entail more people wanting to help and be involved because after all...

Each and everyone of us is different and unique in our own way and I guess we should just keep in mind that Autism is not a disability, it’s a different ability. Autism is not a disability, it is a different ability!

A Speech Pathologist during her session to a little girl

About the contributor. Zoe Gabrielle Villaflor Capungcol is a speech language pathology student at the University of Santo Tomas. She delivered this message at the Angels Walk for Autism 2018 in Tacloban City.

ASP Tacloban is one of our 93 chapters to-date. To join the Autism Society Philippines, go to http://bit.ly/asp-join.

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Posted in: angels-walk,chapters,regional

ASP Autism Works shines in Los Baños

What started as a rainy cloudy day, turned out to be a vibrant session with job seekers from San Pablo, San Pedro, Calamba and Los Baños in Laguna last 31 August 2017.

Autism Works Project Manager discussed the background of the project

The ASP Autism Works Open House in Los Baños was led by ASP Laguna President Catherine Lopez, ASP Laguna VP and National Trustee Marivic Ramos, and ARC Director Lian Del Valle, assisted by ASP National President Mona Magno-Veluz and ASP Angel Corps Volunteer Carl Veluz. The event kicked off with opening remarks from Ms. Cathy. Ms. Mona followed with a background on ASP Autism Works Career Placement Initiative and the opportunities we are currently recruiting for.

Applicants during the assessment session

During the assessments and interviews, parents of adults with autism expressed their apprehensions about riding public transportation independently, compassionate treatment of their children at work, and public acceptance of their working PWAs. While misunderstandings are always a possibility, the ASP Autism Works Program minimizes risks by educating the employer on how to help PWAs become successful and communicating to the general public the value of workers with autism.

Candidates with autism, whose ages varied from 19 to 32 years old, are encouraged to embrace opportunities for growth. This is the time to transition from their sheltered environment to a life of independence and self determination.

"While waiting for the "perfect job", it is important for adults with autism to have daily activities outside the home and to have regular engagements for work or recreation," advised ASP National President Mona Magno-Veluz.

The Autism Resource Center in Intan Street, Sta. Fe Subdivision, Los Baños, Laguna shall provide assessment and job coaching services for applicants from Laguna. The team has vast experience in early intervention, life skills training and transition education.

The participants and their parents together with the Project Manager and Officers of ASP Laguna

The ASP Autism Works Open House series is happening all over the country - Quezon City, Davao, Los Baños, Cebu, Lucena, Iloilo and Parañaque. This project was made possible with the support of Cebu Pacific, Communicare Therapy Center, Inclusion Advoc8, Kitestrings Developmental Center, WorkAbilities, various ASP Chapters and media outlets like Cebu Daily News, Sun Star Cebu, ABS CBN Iloilo and ABS-CBN Cebu.

The Autism Society Philippines' Autism Works career placement initiative aims to build an autism-inclusive society, by creating genuine employment opportunities in compassionate workplaces for adults with autism. ASP's CBR-inspired employment model empowers PWAs and their families towards success at work, through careful profiling of candidates, customized job matching, job coaching training and partnership with respected transition specialists and employers. ASP cordially invites job-ready persons with autism to explore employment possibilities by sending their resume to autismphils@gmail.com.

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Posted in: autism-works,chapters,employment,open house,regional,self-advocates

ASP's Autism Works lands in Davao

On National Heroes Day last 28 August 2017, ASP National President Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National Trustee Marivic Ramos, and ASP Angel Corps Volunteer Carl Veluz traveled to Davao City to facilitate the first ever Autism Works Open House in the Crown Jewel of Mindanao. They were warmly supported by ASP Davao President Liplip Perrenas, Autism Works Project Manager for Davao Momay Al-ag and the rest of the local chapter officers. Applicants, their parents and their teachers from all over Davao City congregated at the ASP Davao office for a day of interviews and assessments.

The Autism Works Team with the participants with their parents and ASP Davao Officers

The assessments determined occupational interest while the panel interviews highlighted the degree of job readiness of the candidates. ASP has successfully identified compassionate workplaces and developed accommodated training programs for job success. Successful applicants in Davao will be deployed in SM Savemore Bangkal and SM Supermarket Ecoland. A handful of opportunities in fast food outlets are also in the works.

Mr. Liplip Perrenas

"This is historic for our chapter," said ASP Davao President Liplip Perrenas. "We are establishing standards for PWAs to be successful at work and we hope our parents and schools will work with us to reach these standards."

The ASP Autism Works career placement initiative welcomes applicants from all across the spectrum. "We believe in the potential of all persons with autism," shared ASP National President Mona Magno-Veluz. "Talking to businesses allows ASP and the enterprise to explore best practices in job definition, recruitment, training and performance management. What we learn is shared with job readiness institutions, so that their programs can be more responsive to the needs of industry. We do all this in the name of acceptance, accommodation and appreciation of persons with autism."

The participants of the Autism Work Program

We look forward to ushering more "heroic" persons with autism, ready to enter the workplace.

The ASP Autism Works Open House series is happening all over the country - Quezon City, Davao, Los Baños, Cebu, Lucena, Iloilo and Parañaque. This project was made possible with the support of Cebu Pacific, Communicare Therapy Center, Inclusion Advoc8, Kitestrings Developmental Center, WorkAbilities, various ASP Chapters and media outlets like Cebu Daily News, Sun Star Cebu, ABS CBN Iloilo and ABS-CBN Cebu.

The Autism Society Philippines' Autism Works career placement initiative aims to build an autism-inclusive society, by creating genuine employment opportunities in compassionate workplaces for adults with autism. ASP's CBR-inspired employment model empowers PWAs and their families towards success at work, through careful profiling of candidates, customized job matching, job coaching training and partnership with respected transition specialists and employers. ASP cordially invites job-ready persons with autism to explore employment possibilities by sending their resume to autismphils@gmail.com.

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Posted in: autism-works,chapters,open house,regional,self-advocates

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

Appreciating autism's kaleidoscope

“Every color, every hue is represented by me and you… in this kaleidoscope world.”

It was a fair day on the 26 September 2016 when the psychology students of Lyceum of the Philippines University - Cavite Campus (LPU-Cavite) held their annual immersion with SPED students particularly children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The immersion had a theme called, “Kaleidoscope: Appreciating the Different Colors of Autism.”

Gift Receiving

The psychology majors felt the event went beyond academic requirement but valued the personal engagement with exceptional children. Despite the sensory and processing challenges the children experienced, the students realized how fun it was to interact with the children and how it made a difference to them.

Mr. Clarence G. Manicad of the College of Arts and Sciences, shared his insights and remarks as an opening. He mentioned that love was the reason behind the gathering. It proved that there are still kindhearted people who will care for these special angels in a manner they deserve. With the help of the guardians who showed their undivided attention and affection, this immersion opened a new door of understanding for the psychology students. The multi-faceted program provided opportunities to interact with the children with autism, play with them, and learn from the children’s guardians.

Ms. Jan Peña, the president of the Autism Society Philippines Dasmariñas Chapter, delivered her message about how grateful she was to have this kind of event wherein children with autism are being given the chance to be themselves apart from when they are at home or in their schools. She wishes that this immersion will not be the end and that more promising endeavors like this will continue.

Ms. Alodia Cueno-Mercado, the instructor of the psychology majors’ Psychology of Exceptional Children course, aspires that the learning experiences which her graduating students acquired will be of good use in the near future. She hopes that this activity will be an experience they can build on in their future careers

About the contributor: Camille Audrene P. Gamayon is currently taking up Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Lyceum of the Philippines University, General Trias, Cavite. She is the project manager of their organization called the League of United Psychology Students and a member of the LPU Scholastic Society and the LPU Peer Facilitators Group. Ms. Gamayon is also a contributor of their university paper called the Laurel Leaf.

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Posted in: 4students,regional,university

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 Alfonso and Laguna partner in seminar on care of CWDs

ASP Los Baños Laguna Mrs. Veronica Chavez and Mrs. Catherine Lopez facilitated seminar on "The Fundamentals in the Care and Management of Children with Disability" last 19 July 19 2016 at the Sanguniang Hall of the Alfonso Central School in Alfonso, Cavite.

ASP Alfonso and Laguna Participants

Day care workers, barangay health workers, teachers from elementary schools from BMS, PDAO officials, parents with CWD and members of ASP Alfonso Chapter. The said event was a joint effort of the municipal goverment headed by Mayor Virgilio Varias, Vice-Mayor Randy Salamat, Sanggunian Bayan Member Carol Rivera, MSWDO officer Gina T. Vedan, DepEd District Supervisor Milagros Norcio, Alfonso SPED Center, PDAO and the Autism Society Philippines.

About the contributor: Noleth Rozul is a college graduate B.S medical technology at De Ocampo Memorial College Manila. She has a son with ADHD. A fulltime housewife married for 19 years, now an active member and secretary to ASP Alfonso Chapter. Finished a short course in microsoft word, excel, power point last 2008 at Alfonso Technical Center.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,chapters,regional

ASP Lipa Oath Taking

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP), in cooperation with the municipality of Lipa held an Oath-Taking Ceremony for the newly-elected officials of ASP Lipa City Chapter last 11 July 2016 at the Lipa City Hall, Marawoy, Lipa City.

ASP Lipa Officers and Trustees with Trustee Ms. Jan Peña, Administrator and Mayor

Each of the officers were recognized and asked to go onstage to deliver their oaths to serve in their respective positions: Lilia M. Balane, as the president; Mona Liza A. Lantin, as the vice-president; Maricar A. Carandang, as the secretary; Menchie L. Altamirano, as the treasurer; Susan R. Segovia, as the auditor; Kristine L. Panopio, as the P.R.O.; Mary Grace A. Serrano, Leah Teresa E. Hardillo, Josie D. Sebolino, and Annabelle G. Masalunga as trustees and Mary Anne Panganiban as the adviser. The oath-taking was administered by the City Administrator, Atty. Leo S. Latido, in behalf of Mayor Meynard A. Sabili.

“Nagmimithi na mahimok sa malawakang kampanya sa pagtanggap at pagkalinga sa mga batang may autismo.” This was how Mrs. Jan Peña, (Trustee, ASP National) described the mission of the said division of the ASP in her speech which she gave after the ceremony. She also added that they also aim for “pagpapalaganap ng tamang pag-unawa” and, as an organization for Children With Autism, “Narito po kami para magbigay pag-asa sa lahat.”

For this occasion, the Autism Society Philippines - Lipa would like to extend their gratitude to the City Mayor, Meynard A. Sabili; Community Affairs Officer II Ms. Jinky S. Bruce; City Social Welfare and Development Officer Ms. Teresita T. Pesa; City Administrator Atty. Leo S. Latido, City; and Councilor Nonato “Patmon” Monfero; LAMESA Federation headed by their President Nenita Hablado; to the parents and employees who were present during the occasion; members of the ASP Lipa Chapter; and Ms. Laura de Luna, Ms. Lucy Manguiat, Ms Cherry Ann Rabino and all the CSWDO staffs for supporting and believing in the advocacy of Autism Society Philippines.

ASP Lipa would like to thank ASP National for the help and support, especially to their mentor, Trustee Ms. Jan Peña; to their Program Coordinator Mr. Cenin Faderogao and to the President Ms. Mona Magno- Veluz.

About the contributor: Ma. Bernadette M. Balane, a second year student from the University of the Philippines currently taking up Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy.

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Posted in: chapters,induction,regional

Karl at Kidzania

Experiencing Kidzania is often a fun, educational opportunity for many kids who have entered this community of imaginative play. Through interactive play, young children learn social skills such as sharing and taking turns; but the opportunity for "make believe" play takes a more significant turn for Karl Robert, an adolescent with autism.

Karl Robert, together with his mom, Carolyn Sumague of ASP Biñan Chapter, won in the ASP Kidzania Manila Raffle held at the ASP National Headquarters on 2 June 2016 -- together with 24 other pairs. Thanks to a generous gift from Cebu Pacific, the chapters of the Autism Society Philippines were able to experience a day of whimsy.

Karl assembles a burger with the McDonald's crew.

Karl was excited, upon entering this labyrinth of fun -- and his unbridled delight could be seen as he lined up for the different career tracks. His parents were mindful of the activities he enjoyed -- food service was on top of the list!

Karl taking in the sensory delights of working in a kitchen.

We feel this exposure helped him better understand the concept of work and career. Observations on what he enjoyed will be important inputs to his IEP and his pre-vocational class teachers at the Biñan SPED School.

About the contributor: Engr. Ariel M. Sumague is the proud father of Karl Robert Sumague, a kid with autism. He is currently connected with Colegio San Agustin Biñan as the Head of Marketing. He is also an active founding member of ASP Biñan and helps the group in their dealings with the LGU and DEPED.

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Posted in: cebu-pacific,chapters,journey,kidzania,laguna,regional

ASP Sibs Camp Cavite 2016: Give Us More!

The ASP Siblings Camp Cavite, a yearly activity aimed at instilling camaraderie, role acceptance and leadership among siblings of persons with autism, kicked off its fifth season last May 26 and finished off touchingly with a bang on May 28. It was held at the Andrea’s Hidden Villa (a PWD- accessible private resort owned by Mr. Jing D. Caringal, the Head of PDAO of Tagaytay City) in Patutong Malaki North, Tagaytay City. Joined by fourteen ASP brothers and sisters from Carmona, Bacoor, Dasmariñas, Silang, Mendez and Gen. Trias, this year’s Sibs Camp in Cavite also welcomed five other enthusiastic sibs from Manila and Muntinlupa ASP chapters.

The nineteen Sib Campers, 10-23 years old, were quick to lay down the barriers within the hour of signing in. They felt comfortable amidst their peers even before the breaking of ice— they sat in groups, exchanged wits and banter, played and ran around. As one of the Kuya’s declared, he sees ASP Siblings Camp Cavite as his chance to “escape from reality,” a time to put his “responsibilities” in the backburner and have relaxing time with old and new friends. ASP Siblings Camp affords time for both fun and serious matters, with lots of bonding, relationship-building, and playful moments with fellow sibs, as well as time for self-recollection and expression, coming to terms, and looking ahead.

Writing Suggestions to make Sibs Camp More Interesting

Among the siblings’ favourite activities were the “SIB-er Games,” where the sibs were submerged in two hours of physically intoxicating and vocal-chord-wrecking water games, and the “Amazing Sibs Race,” which was not merely a feat of treasure hunting to be enjoyed, but an exploit that challenged the analytic, communication, decision-making and caring skills of the team players. The Race significantly brought home some very valuable lessons on trust, leadership and teamwork and was pegged as the most-liked activity in camp.

Line up with blindfold

Even as they enjoyed the playful hours, the siblings became very dedicated during the more serious and reflective moments, where they were guided to define and process their thoughts and emotions regarding their life’s journey as siblings of PWAs. Being siblings of PWAs, the campers were able to openly share one’s highs and lows in living with someone on the spectrum. It is much like what parents do when they engage in the Family Support Group meetings of ASP.

Sibs Group sharing discussions

One of the siblings remarked later that over all, the camp had a re-charging effect. It was obvious during the closing ceremony that everybody felt an unusual kind of revival, a readiness to face the greater challenges that lie ahead as they “return to reality” once again.

ASP Siblings Camp Cavite hopes to be instrumental in shaping a positive and healthy perspective by which both parents and siblings of persons with autism can manage and balance their roles and responsibilities as care-sharers in the family. As the sibs campers ostensibly voiced out their wish to have “More!” of everything that they experienced in camp, ASP Siblings Camp Cavite will exert every possible effort to sustain a responsive siblings support group to help improve the overall quality of life of our dear families living with autism.

ASP Cavite Chapters would like to thank all the good-hearted organizers of this very successful Camp: Teacher My Sorongon, ever committed and hardworking ASP Sibs Camp Facilitator, together with a dedicated and efficient team of Co-Facilitators – Teacher Eve Perey (Mendez, Cavite), Ate Thea Peña (Dasmariñas), Kuya Paul Valencia (Trece Martires) and Tita Jan Peña (Dasmariñas), Camp Director. Likewise, we are endlessly thankful to our partners who generously supported Sibs Camp 2016: Mr. Jing D. Caringal of Tagaytay City PDAO Office, owner of Andrea’s Hidden Villa; Mrs. Romana Bough of Sacramento, USA; Mr. Marvin Tiania of Jollibee Mendez Crossing –Tagaytay; and PWA Muneer Peña for the sweet cupcake tokens!

Thank you most especially to all the nineteen cooperating siblings from Cavite, Manila and Muntinlupa for whom the ASP Siblings Camp Cavite 2016 is sincerely dedicated, and to their parents and guardians who put their full trust and support in allowing the siblings to partake of this extraordinary experience! God bless you all and Mabuhay!

Cavite Sibs Camp group

The last day was inevitable. The siblings did not want to part, and they constantly joked about extending the camp, or having five times of it a year, or joining the subsequent camps of other chapters. They exchanged numbers, names on Facebook, and promised to keep in touch. They also had plans of reunion and future activities which hopefully would materialize soon.

All in all, the ASP Siblings Camp Cavite was a worthwhile endeavor which perfectly fits into the vacation days, and is a combination of fun and “recollection” moments, it was also a chance to meet new people with similar stories, and reunite with old buddies to catch up and bond. As expected, they were already looking forward to ASP Siblings Camp 2017!

About the contributor: Thea Peña is the elder sister of 20-year old PWA Muneer Peña of Dasmariñas City, Cavite. She is a fresh graduate (Salutatorian) of BS Occupational Therapy from the De La Salle Health Sciences Institute, Dasmariñas, Cavite. Ate Thea is a long-time sibling participant in various Sibs Camps in Laguna and Cavite, consequently developing her skills as a co-faciliator in the recent Sibs Camps held in Cavite. Tita Jan Peña is the mother of Ate Thea Peña, the current President of ASP Dasmariñas Chapter and the untiring steward or “Gobernadora” of ASP chapters in Cavite. She served as the Camp Director and house parent in this year’s Siblings Camp Cavite.

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Posted in: 4siblings,camp,chapters,regional,summer

Cavite Braces for 5th ASP Sibs Camp

All systems GO! for ASP Siblings Camp Cavite on May 26-28, 2016. ASP families are thrilled to escort the participants to Andrea’s Hidden Villa, a wondrous and PWD-accommodating and friendly resort in Patutong Malaki North, Tagaytay City, Cavite. This year’s twenty campers promise to be an exciting mixture of impassioned Ate’s and Kuya’s from Cavite cities and towns of Carmona, Bacoor, Dasmariñas, Molino, Gen. Trias, Silang and Mendez, plus hi-energy sibs from Manila and Muntinlupa Chapters.

Sibs Camp Cavite is a yearly coming together of siblings of PWA’s of different ages whose families are active ASP members. Since 2010, the summer activity has served as a venue for siblings bonding, self-expression, enriching perspectives and directions, and inculcating compassion, advocacy and leadership.

ASP Cavite Sibs Camp

We thank all the parents who promptly responded to this invitation and did not think twice to motivate their children to engage in the Siblings Camp. We hope to continue making Sibs Camp a must-join activity for every sibling every summer, for it educates, transforms and empowers siblings in their life’s journey with a brother or sister with autism.

We are also heartily grateful for the support of steadfast partners and friends who helped to kick-off the 2016 Sibs Camp (5th in Cavite): Teacher My Sorongon, ASP’s Siblings Camp Facilitator; Mr. Jing Caringal, Head of PDAO, Tagaytay City; Mrs. Romana Bough, long-time ASP angel; and JOLLIBEE - Mendez Crossing Tagaytay! Your spirit behind Sibs Camp Cavite is our strength! From the organizing team of 2016 Sibs Camp Cavite, Salamat and Mabuhay!

About the contributor: Mary Janette Infantado-Peña is a former President and Executive Director of the National Autism Society Philippines. She is also a former President of the Autism Society Philippines Bacoor and Dasmariñas Chapters (Cavite). Ms. Janette is a Graduate of AB Psychology from the University of the Phil, Dil. QC. She worked as a Teacher, Trainer and Supervisor in multi-instructional settings. Ms. Janette is a very active autism advocate, being a mother of a 22-year old young man with autism (Muneer). In 2015, her family was conferred the prestigious 2015 Jollibee Family Values Award for its exceptional contribution to the empowerment of Filipinos with Autism.

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Posted in: 4siblings,camp,chapters,regional,siblings,summer

Siblings’ Circle Summer Camp 2016

The ASP Laguna Siblings Circle Summer Camp 2016 (SCSC), with the theme “PWA Siblings, Proud and Aware,” was held on 22-23 April 2016 at Word of Life, a Christian recreational center located in Brgy. Perez, Calauan, Laguna. Ms. Marivic Ramos served as camp director, Ms. Deborah Klaudine Sanchez as lead facilitator, Ms. Inah Cathes Lopez and Sir Reymart Encarnacion as assistant facilitators at SCSC 2016.

The camp encouraged siblings and cousins of children with autism to be outspoken about their special relatives, brothers and sisters. Three constant E’s are the main objectives of the camp: empower, express and enjoy. All were given the opportunity to express their awareness of the condition of their relatives, brothers and sisters and to discover more of its implications in their daily lives. It also gave them the opportunity to think back to the moments that they felt proud of them. The camp also allowed them to develop camaraderie and share learning experiences among themselves. Participants came from Laguna (San Pablo, Sta. Rosa, Pakil), Cavite (Carmona), Quezon (Infanta) and Pampanga (San Fernando).

Siblings Circle Summer Camp group

The program started at 9:00 am with a prayer led by Ms. Debs Sanchez. A welcome followed given by Ms. Marivic Ramos. She also introduced the camp team to the participants. Together with Ms. Jessica, a staff from the Word of Life Camp, Ms. Marivic discussed the camp rules and regulations.

Fun started with “getting-to-know” activities namely “candy colors,” “inside the box” and the “toilet roll.” Participants were asked to introduce themselves by giving their name, age and the place where they came from and other things about themselves. The campers were amazing as they blended immediately well.

After the getting-to- know activities boodle fight lunch followed. The campers put together their lunch packs on banana leaves spread on the table for sharing. Most of them brought fast food chicken meals so it turned out to be a “chicken festival”. It was a first time experience for most of the campers to eat with their bare hands.

The bible hour, which is compulsory for all groups availing the facilities of the Word of Life Camp Inc. was done after lunch and facilitated by Kuya Ivan, a staff of the camp site. The bible verse was John 3:16 which states “for God so love the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. The emphasis of the sharing is the love of God, which gives us the capacity to love others especially the siblings and relatives with autism. The group was divided into two for a contest of finding the verse in the bible. The much awaited swimming time followed.

After dinner, there was t-shirt printing. They printed their own shirt with a sibling circle design, and went off for another awaited ending activity for the day -- the bonfire. Everybody was excited to gather in front of the bonfire. The facilitators led the sharing by asking each participant the question “What do you understand about your sibling’s/relative’s special condition?” and “What was the time/s that you were so proud of your siblings/relatives with autism?”

The SCSC team tried to give light to some confusion by giving facts and concrete examples. Positive emotions poured out when asked the second question. Some even cried because they pity their siblings/relatives. To lighten the mood, the “chubby bunny” challenge did a great job. It’s a challenge to everyone to put as much marshmallows in their mouth to expand their cheeks one piece at a time and still be able to say the phrase “Sibs proud and aware!” as clearly as possible. Each participant tried to say the phrase as clearly as possible while increasing pieces of marshmallows in their mouth. Everyone had a good laugh. The heating of marshmallows was also a hit, especially when they made their own “smores.”

The second day started at 5:30 am with a morning prayer followed by then the Filipino game “sikyo” or “agawan base” which they enjoyed much. After breakfast everybody got excited with the zip-line ride. One participant got the “Fear Buster” award for conquering his fear of the zip-line. Then the group underwent the traditional initiation by executing the “Human Roll.” Several games were played in the covered court until everyone got tired. After lunch, there was a group picture taking in the different areas of the camp.

And they did the “letter writing” activity where each one has to write a note or letter to other participants whom they like to make friends with. Eventually, all of them made one for each of the participants.

After the activity, everyone packed away their things and spent the remaining hours for bonding. Simultaneously, parents were gathered by Ms. Marivic to give them information on what transpired during the two-day camp. Activities were shared to them and details like how the siblings/cousins see their special relatives, brothers and sisters in different ways and their disabilities as well.

Ms. Marivic thanked the parents for entrusting their children to ASP Laguna and to the SCSC team, for the support in terms of time and efforts to make ASP Laguna Siblings Circle Summer Camp a success! The camp ended with an awarding of certificate of recognition to the participants.

About the contributor: Marivic is an ASP National Trustee and the current Vice-President of ASP Laguna Chapter. A Trainer for Work, Live and Play Program to young adults with autism at Autism Resource Center (ARC). Marivic is a pillar of the autism advocacy community in Los Baños, immersing herself in special education and training and empowerment programs over the years. As an ASP delegate, she was elected to the board of the Philippine Community Based Disability Inclusive Development Network. She is a single mother to a 23 year old young adult with autism, Victor Michael "Mico" Ramos who is now working at ASP National Headquarters as Junior Program Assistant.

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Posted in: 4siblings,camp,chapters,regional,siblings,summer

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

ASP Baguio advocates with the Department of Health

ASP Baguio’s Immediate Chapter Past President Jennifer M. Gundran and its current Chapter President Belette N. Vizcocho served as resource speakers at a Disability Sensitivity Training conducted by the Department of Health Cordillera Administrative Regional Office last 21 April 2016 at The Prince Plaza, Legarda Road, Baguio City. Participants of the training included City and Provincial PWD Coordinators, Health Promotion Officers and some DOH Representatives and Physicians.

Before starting with her presentation, “Understanding Autism,” Jenny Gundran briefly introduced Autism Society Philippines, its vision, mission and advocacies. She also made mention of ASP’s 1Pangako Campaign which aims to stop the use of the word “autistic” as a joke or an insult. Her presentation included a definition of autism, signs and symptoms, prevalence and the difficulties experienced by children/persons with autism. She also discussed Philippine myths about autism.

Jennifer Gundran presents DOH

Belette Vizcocho gave a short presentation on autism and the various potential comorbidities, describing briefly the difficulties associated with ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, Dysgraphia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, Dyslexia, Global Developmental Delay, in addition to the Autism Spectrum Disorder.

At the end of the presentation, a few questions were raised during the open forum regarding the availability of developmental pediatricians in the city and the different forms of therapy and programs needed by persons with autism. We informed the audience that we have two developmental pediatricians – Dr. Millicent Fronda De Vera who is based here in Baguio and Dr. Francis Xavier Dimalanta who is based in Manila but makes monthly visits to Baguio and runs A Child’s Dream Therapy Clinic. There are other private therapy centers in the city as well, catering to persons with special needs.

In closing, we mentioned ASP’s thrust at not only spreading a better awareness and understanding of autism but also working at promoting an inclusive society where persons with autism are socially accepted, independent and productive members of the community.

About the contributor. Isabelita Vizcocho is a graduate of architecture from UST, manages Jet Bookstore in Baguio City. She is married to Noli Vizcocho, a founding chapter president of ASP Baguio, who is currently the chapter president, have 4 grown up daughters and an only son, Josef, who is now 23 and was diagnosed with autism at the age of 4, a graduate of HRRM, presently a casual employee at the Baguio Country Club.

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Posted in: awareness,chapters,government,regional,sensitivity

ASP Sta. Rosa marches to the municipal hall

In celebration of World Autism Awareness Month, ASP Sta. Rosa families joined the flag ceremony at the Municipal Hall on 18 April 2016. We spoke briefly on the our autism advocacy and ASP’s nationwide 1Pangako campaign. Mayor Arlene Arcillas kindly met with ASP in her office; and signed our 1Pangako pledge sheet.

ASP Sta. Rosa Group with Mayor Arlene Arcillas

Visibility in the community is one important aspect of our advocacy. Face time with the chief local executive to articulate our needs and our priorities is a hallmark of genuine and meaningful government engagement.

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: 1pangako,chapters,government,regional,WAAD

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

ASP joins SM Marketmall for PWD Sensitivity Seminar

In keeping with SM’s tradition of strengthening its commitment to customer service, particularly in addressing the needs of persons with disabilities, the SM Marketmall - Dasmariñas , Cavite, conducted the seminar entitled “Caring for Special Customers” on 27 February 2016 at 7:00 AM at the second floor parking of the SM Marketmall Dasmariñas. For ten years now, SM Supermalls and its branches all over the country have conducted PWD sensitivity trainings to their employees twice a year with an eye to continuously ensuring a truly PWD-friendly and service Mall. Attending this seminar were 40 SM affiliates, security and janitorial personnel, tenants and vendors of SM Marketmall Dasmariñas.

Ms. Janette Peña with son Muneer

Speaking on behalf of the autism community was Jan Peña, ASP Board Trustee and ASP Dasmariñas Chapter President, together with Muneer Peña, her 20 year-old son with autism. Tita Jan enlightened the audience on the nature of autism as a developmental condition and its recognizable signs among mall goers who have autism. The audience showed heightened interest as Tita Jan Peña flashed pictures that showed what an SM employee can do in special situations involving a customer with autism, such as responding to a lost child with autism, to hyperactive and aggressive behavior, or tantrums, and the language one can use to get across an autistic child in need of help inside a mall. Best is to regard customers with autism with an understanding “SM-ile”, a comforting nod, and a happy, helping gesture at all times.

ASP is endlessly thankful to SM Cares for its immeasurable contributions to the advocacy for persons with disabilities. Because the PWD sensitivity program has positively transformed the heart of SM into a loving and caring environment for PWD’s, SM has truly become a second home to many families living with autism.

About the contributor: Mary Janette Infantado-Peña is a former President and Executive Director of the National Autism Society Philippines. She is also a former President of the Autism Society Philippines Bacoor and Dasmariñas Chapters (Cavite). Ms. Janette is a Graduate of AB Psychology from the University of the Phil, Dil. QC. She worked as a Teacher, Trainer and Supervisor in multi-instructional settings. Ms. Janette is a very active autism advocate, being a mother of a 22-year old young man with autism (Muneer). In 2015, her family was conferred the prestigious 2015 Jollibee Family Values Award for its exceptional contribution to the empowerment of Filipinos with Autism.

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Posted in: chapters,corporate,regional,sensitivity,sm

Facing Autism from a Different Angle

It was a fine, sunny Saturday afternoon of 20 February 2016 when Kidsville Behavior and Therapy Center Bacoor hosted a Family Support Group gathering, moderated by Ms. Jan Peña, ASP National Trustee and President of ASP Dasmariñas.

Coming into the event as a first-time attendee, I did not have any expectation as to how this gathering would turn out. After all, I am a weary mother looking for a fresh perspective when it comes to raising my son with autism. My first-born Stan, now 6 years old, was diagnosed with autism when he was turning 4. It did not come as a surprise since my family and I have been observing him act differently from other children his age. My husband and I took the diagnosis calmly and asked the dev pedia what the next step would be. There was no blaming and finger-pointing for we have researched about autism and joined online autism awareness and support groups early on.

Then the therapies at Kidsville and the home intervention began. In the past two years I started feeling the weight and burn of loving a child with special needs. Many times we could not understand each other as Stan was using a language only he knew. We were having power struggles when it came to varying activities and seatwork. We were getting stares and unsolicited comments from other people who saw Stan talking and acting randomly in malls, parks, and roads. My approaches to him were trial-and-error but the success rate went gradually higher as we went along, continually asking Stan’s therapists for advice and techniques. But deep inside I am still yearning for some reassurance that everything is going to be all right and Stan is heading to the right direction. A live support group will feel more relevant and real than the online ones I am in.

Ms. Janette Peña moderating Family Support Group in Bacoor

From One Parent to Another

Sitting near the hallway to Kidsville’s cubicles, I saw Ms. Jan and her son Muneer quietly come to the front of the audience – fellow parents of children enrolled at Kidsville Bacoor. I was delighted to see Muneer up close and in person since I used to see him only on the internet. He is 20, with autism, and very much adept with technology that he was the one who set up his mom’s laptop and projector.

With sound bites from a professional’s perspective, Teacher Joy Lacson, licensed occupational therapist and head administrator of Kidsville, gave very useful input in making our journeys with our children easier as the event progressed.

Ms. Jan presented to us something like Autism 101, but with a more personal touch unlike what we read in books and on the internet. An autism parent herself, Ms. Jan related to us how, in her 20 years of experience with Muneer, it is like for a child with the condition to feel the physical sensations in a different way, to treat an attachment to a certain object like a security blanket, to find calm and enjoyment in doing mundane and repetitive activities, and to respond to situations with opposite extremes of emotions. Through Ms. Jan’s words, we, family members in the room felt like we finally made it to the doorstep of each of our children’s world.

Opportunities Instead of Solutions

There are no hard-and-fast rules in dealing with CWAs and there is no clear-cut solution in treating autism. It is not a disease in the first place, as Ms. Jan pointed out. That was why she presented us with opportunities: practical and creative openings we can find at home and outdoors to help our special children address the challenges of daily life. Being a solution -driven mom who has been motivating my son to be nicer, more open, and more expressive, I found the opportunities to be the fresh perspective I was looking for – a different angle to the “solution” most autism families are aiming at.

She then showed us slides with Muneer’s pictures doing everyday chores. In example, Muneer weeding their lawn and carrying baskets instead of pushing a cart in the grocery help address his tactile needs; Muneer doing laundry establishes a repetitive pattern that he enjoys; Muneer cooking rice encourages proper sequencing of tasks; Muneer cutting food to prepare for cooking improves his eye-hand coordination and establishes his desire for order by cutting vegetables in equal parts; Muneer using his PWD ID at a restaurant allows him to interact with people and improves his writing skills by signing receipts; and Muneer joining special sports, pageants, and communal activities allows him interaction with more people and awareness of his surroundings. More of Muneer’s slides showed us that our being involved with our children can help them become independent, life-ready, and even job-ready as more companies big and small open up to employing PWAs.

When Teacher Joy cited the recently-concluded Angels Walk for Autism as an example of an opportunity and how we unknowingly place barriers to opportunities, I backtracked to the time I first saw Ms. Jan and Muneer in Kidsville. They visited to invite us to join the fun run. But the answers were tentative because of various reasons. I was also guilty of putting that barrier because Stan and I were not able to go despite my raring initiative.

The presentation of opportunities led to a mini forum in which parents, me included, asked questions about the different issues we have been facing with our kids, Ms. Jan and Teacher Joy gladly answered them. Another perspective that hit close to home was how Ms. Jan described CWAs: heavenly beings gifted by God to be more resilient but are too pure and different from the ways of this earthly world, and are sent to us because we are capable of rearing them into individuals who can live and adapt to this world’s demands. The event concluded with Ms. Jan’s poem inspired by Muneer’s journey with her, titled, “My Mom, She Made Me Win.” Although I already read the poem online, I still could not help but be touched by Ms. Jan’s soft voice as she recited it, and soon enough tears welled up everybody’s eyes because of this heartfelt tribute.

The Family Support Group was an eye-opening and enlightening experience to us family members who attended the gathering. I felt a renewed vigor as I went home bringing my usual pasalubong to Stan. Ms. Jan and Muneer’s presence in the event made us feel that we are not alone in our continuous efforts to understand and relate to our children, and inspired us to be better as their personal advocates. She has always cited her son as a living example of how we can overcome the challenges of raising our differently-able kids. Because of this I believe that my dream of seeing my son speak of his journey in front of many people will become reality in the future.

About the contributor: Ednalyn Lozada or Momie Lyn is a 36 years old, mother of two children: Stan, a 6 years old child with autism and Chichi 3 years old. A loving wife to husband Rey, a fellow BPO practitioner. She became a full-time mom when Stan was born. She expose her children to different activities outside home when opportunities allow them like bringing her kids to church.

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Posted in: chapters,fsg,regional