Join the ASP AUthletics Bowling Tournament

[Postponed Indefinitely]

AUthletics Bowling Tournament
Digital Poster

The Autism Society Philippines invites bowlers on the autism spectrum to join us for a morning of fun and fitness! The ASP AUthletics Bowling Tournament is pre-qualifier to the ASEAN Autism Games to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in October 2020.

What: ASP AUthletics Bowling Tournament.
When: 31 May 2020, Sunday, 10am - 12nn.
Where: SM Megamall Bowling Center, Pasig City

Participant Criteria
-A player must be at least eight (8) years old
-A player must be able to carry at least a 7-pound ball
-Able to play 10 bowling frames
-Must sign up using form below. Limited slots. Deadline for registration is 25 March 2020, noon.
-Must be wearing the ASP Angels Walk 2020 shirt on game day
-Must pay P100 participation fee on-site to partially cover cost bib, certificate, shoes, lane fees and simple snacks

Team Criteria
-Open to ASP chapters
-Each team can send max 6 players
-Four (4) highest scores from each city (regardless of category) will determine Team Category winners

Categories. Gold, silver and bronze medals are at stake for:
(1) Group A - 8 to 14 years old (Assisted/Unassisted)
(2) Group B - 14 years old and above (Assisted)
(3) Group C - 14 years old and above (Unassisted)
(4) Team - combined score of four (4) participants per city

A special award will go to Best Parent Cheerleader Group.

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Posted in: authletics,bowling,sports

Los Baños, Pasay and QC top ASP Authletics Tournament Medal Tallies

Youth on the autism spectrum and parents during the tournament

The ASP Authletics Tournament held on January 26, 2020 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, featured an inter-city Takkyu Volley competition and an individual obstacle course race, held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. The tournament was a collaboration between the Autism Society Philippines, SM Cares and SM Mall of Asia. A total of 70 athletes on the autism spectrum of all ages, shared in the collective sense of well-being, friendship, and achievement.

The ASP AUthletics Medal Tally puts Los Baños City (Laguna) in first place, Pasay City (NCR) in second; and Quezon City (NCR) in third. With more tournaments in the pipeline, cities and chapters have more opportunities to get in the game!

ASP AUthletics is a program that promotes health through movement and competitive athlete development. ASP AUthletics is a proprietary brand asset of the Autism Society Philippines. ASP Authletics tournaments and bootcamps can only be held with the express permission of ASP National HQ and is reserved for accredited ASP chapters.

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OFFICIAL RESULTS*
ASP Authletics Tournament
SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, Pasay City
26 January 2020

Obstacle Course Race
Group A - 7 years old and below
1st - Johann Terrence Dablo (Los Baños)
2nd - Kyle Zhiannen Atienza (Los Baños)

Obstacle Course Race
Group B - 8 to 13 years old
1st - Jovani Zabala (Mandaluyong)
2nd - Reese Dino (Mandaluyong)
3rd - MJ Raña (Los Baños)

Obstacle Course Race
Group C- 14 years old and above, Assisted
1st - Jhezzed Nicolas (San Mateo)
2nd - Ralph Tolenada (Pasay)
3rd - Marie Anjulie F. Reyes (Marikina)

Obstacle Course Race
Group D - 14 years old and above, Unassisted
1st - Ian Ferdinand L. Lopez (Los Baños)
2nd - Van Aguilar (Quezon City)
3rd - Michael Espiritu (Pasay)

Takkyu Volley
Gold Medal - Team Pasay
1. Danmar Dayao
2. Harvey Medel
3. Keon Danille Olanday
4. Angelika Mae Olsen
5. Ronald Rabena
6. Julius Alexis Sison

Takkyu Volley
Silver Medal - Team Quezon City
1. Jason Cando
2. Bryan Limjoco
3. Denzel Narciso
4. Dreau Narciso
5. Marlon Jake Reyes
6. Jose Rey Angelo So

Takkyu Volley
Bronze Medal - Team Los Baños
1. Michael Cansanay
2. Genesis Elizon
3. Terah Gabriel Francisco
4. Adrian Guanieso
5. Rhav Lomboy
6. Victor Michael Ramos

*You may view the official results for all participants at AUthletics Leaderboard. Some medals were erroneously distributed to non-winners. For comments, please email autismphils@gmail.com

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Posted in: authletics,nacw,sm,sports

The ASEAN Autism Games 2018 is on!

The Autism Society Philippines is preparing for the country's participation at the ASEAN Autism Games 2018! Organized by the ASEAN Autism Network and the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability, this year's event comes in the wake of other successful regional friendship games.

In January 2016, autism advocates from ASEAN countries congregated in the University of the Philippines campus in Los Banos, Laguna, Philippines for the First ASEAN Autism Friendship Games, led by the Autism Society Philippines. In December 2016, the Myanmar Autism Association quarterbacked a milestone sporting event for their country -- the first exclusively for persons with autism -- at the Myanmar Paralympic Sports Center in Yangon, Myanmar. In October 2017, the Association of Parents of Thai Persons with Autism welcomed 800 participants -- the biggest number, so far -- for the Third ASEAN Autism Games, dubbed Disability-Inclusive Sports for Tomorrow in Bangkok, Thailand.

PWDs with medals

Participation in international sporting events breeds mutual understanding and friendship between athletes of autism, their parents and other supporters from all over the region through innovative autism-friendly recreation, leisure and sports activities.

The ASEAN Autism Games event will be held on date 20-21 October 2018. The Venue is Gelanggang Olah Raga Sumantri Brojonegoro in the area Kuningan, Central Jakarta, Indonesia. This year, the skills and talents of persons with autism will be positively promoted in track and field, swimming, Dodgebee, and traditional Indonesian games.

We would like to invite athletes who meet the following criteria to apply to be a member of the Philippine delegation.

... is an ASP member (can be completed before August 2018)
... with a formal autism diagnosis, verbal or non-verbal
... is in good physical health
... is 18 years old and above

Confirmed participants will be invited for assessments and practices. All expenses related to travel will be shouldered by the athlete and his/her family. We estimate all expenses per person to fall between USD 300 and USD 500. All athletes must travel with at least one parent.

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Posted in: 4pwas,aan,asean,international,sports

Laser tag with the Autism Works Gang

Autism works, autism plays - that motto rings true for ASP's Autism Works Barkada. All young people with autism need meaningful work, as well as opportunities for recreation and for making friends.

Our Autism Works Gang during the
Laser Tag bonding

On 24 September 2017, 10 young adults in the Autism Works program, from 5 different business enterprises, came together for a friendly game of Laser Tag at Laser Maxx in Eton Centris. Reinforced by some fun loving siblings, the group suited up, divided into two teams and had a blast (literally) in the game zone.

Parents we're initially concerned about their kids with a history of sensory issues. While sensitivities must have come into play, no one felt distressed about the neon lights, the dark interior and the dramatic music that was designed to heighten the sense of competition. Observers could hear nothing but cheer and joyful banter, as the game progressed.

The players emerged from the dark play zone, after 15 minutes, sweaty and euphoric. The group then proceeded to a nearby restaurant for some well deserved post-battle nourishment. The barkada bash was topped off by a round of ice cream before heading home.

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,fun,recreation,self-advocates,sports

ASP Bacoor Chapter delegates to AAFG honored

ASP Bacoor Chapter delegates to the ASEAN Autism Friendship Games were honored with certificates of recognition from Bacoor City Hall last 18 January 2016, given by Mayor Strike Revilla and Congresswoman Lanie Mercado Revilla.

Autism Friendship Games Group

Through the team’s participation, talents, skills and sportsmanship of our CWAs in athletic field were showcased. Recognizing ASP Bacoor CWA’s skills is a leap for our cause, showing Bacooreños that given a chance, CWA’s can and will excel in different fields. Appreciating their achievements cemented the idea that with acceptance and support CWAs can and will become a pride for the City of Bacoor.

About the contributor: Rowena “Weng” Lagarde is the current president of ASP Bacoor chapter and a single mom of an 11 yr. old CWA, Owen Cerilla. Being a parent to a CWA made her more grounded in life. Having Owen made her see little details rather than seeing the big picture as a whole. A blessing not only to her but to her family, bonding her and her brothers as they stand as father figures to her son.

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

The indomitable spirit of RG and MM

At age 4, my first-born Ruben Guinolbay II (RG) was very hyperactive and exceptionally articulate. His preschool teachers suggested that I consult a developmental pediatrician to find out if he has a medical condition. Heeding the advice of the teachers, I decided to consult a devped who informed me that there was nothing wrong with RG. However, the doctor noticed that RG, like me, was hyperactive. The doctor claimed that considering RG’s age, he might eventually outgrow his hyperactivity. In February 2011, my younger son, Mariano Miguel Guinolbay (MM) was rushed to the hospital for a surprisingly high blood pressure of 160/100. He was very overweight and half of his face appeared disfigured. Upon the suggestion of the pediatrician who noticed MM’s irregular behavioral patterns, I visited Dr. Agnes Falcotelo who diagnosed MM and RG with autism. I was devastated. I could only say that my world seemed bleak and hopeless at that time.

As commonly experienced by mothers with young and rowdy children like mine, yayas come and go. The yayas simply cannot stand the hyperactivity and violent tendencies of my boys. Instead of expressing their emotions with words, RG and MM would simply tug at the maids’ arms or bite them. This is in addition to the behavioral problems they exhibit in school. I was often summoned to the Principal’s office because the boys were either bullied or did the bullying themselves. It bears stressing that one of the prominent traits of children with autism is the inability to socialize and lack of seeking to share enjoyment, interests and activities with other people.

Three boys in Taekwondo with Coach Ric

On 01 April 2014, I decided to drop by the Taekwondo Central Gym to reminisce my Taekwondo days when life was a lot happier, simpler and without autism issues to deal with. I brought RG and MM to see if they would like to try the martial art. Having been diagnosed as hyperactive myself in 1980s, it did not come as a surprise that my boys will eventually inherit my personality traits including my love for Taekwondo.

It turns out that my children instantly loved Taekwondo and surprisingly excelled in it. Missing the sport, I decided to enroll too. The environment in Central Gym is very relaxing and conducive to friendships destined to last a lifetime. Our beloved coach, Ric Canlas is not only committed to developing young and talented athletes, he is very good also in motivating his students including children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism. I would say that Coach Ric is exceptional in instilling the basic Taekwondo tenets particularly Self-Confidence, Perseverance and Indomitable Spirit in my children. Immediately two months after RG and MM enrolled in Taekwondo, the summons from the Principal’s Office disappeared and both boys became more sociable and more confident in dealing with people. I noticed too that my children became happier and less violent. The grades improved and became more stable. Because excessive energy are spent every practice, RG and MM are able to sit down and focus more on their academic lessons. Their weight likewise became ideal and more stable. MM’s blood pressure does not shoot up anymore. He dropped several pounds. Further, I am happy to say that returning to my old passion changed my outlook in life. I became healthier and more positive in my work. Each Taekwondo session is an instant family bonding opportunity for the three of us. My sons not only gained their self-confidence, they gained a lot of friends and happy memories at the Taekwondo Central Gym as well.

In closing, I highly recommend Taekwondo not only to families with children medically diagnosed with autism and/or ADHD or to families who just want to have a nice family bonding time. To quote the words of Chungwon Choue, President of the World Taekwondo Federation during the Opening Ceremony of the third World Para-Taekwondo Championships. "The hope that Taekwondo brings is limitless. It knows no boundaries and is hampered by no disability.”

About the contributor: Atty. Marianne Aniñgat-Guinolbay. The writer is a 2nd Dan Black Belter. She works as an Attorney V at the GSIS Main Office. She used to be a member of the De La Salle University Taekwondo team for the period 1990-1993. She is currently an active member of the ASP Marikina Valley Chapter.

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Posted in: journey,sports

ASP Sta. Rosa Aqua Therapy

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

PWAs Swimming during Aqua Therapy with Mr. Christian Oliver Cruz

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

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

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

ASP Laguna holds the 9th Friendship Games

ASP Laguna Chapter conducted the annual Friendship Games as part of the celebration of the National Autism Consciousness Week. This year’s theme “Aim High, Fly High Through Going Back to Basics” was participated by 12 member schools -- First Steps Intervention and Therapy Center Inc., Liliw Intervention Center, Work of Heart Child Center, Arcangel Intervention and Tutorial Center, Child and Teen Success Intervention Center, George and Ru Intervention Tutorial Center, Paete Intervention Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Autism Resource Center, Child Formation Center, Holy Rosary College, GS Option House and Learning Center, Inc. and Biñan SPED Center.

Participants of the 9th Friendship Games

This year’s games, held at Stonecrest in San Pedro City, Laguna, was hosted by GS Option House and Learning Center, Inc. Registration started at 7:00 in the morning, which was followed by energetic dance moves and exercises. An invocation was led by Christian Taclendo and Gina Tangle. Nica Escasiñas, a special guest performer, led the singing of the National Anthem. The teachers of GS Option House welcomed the participants through its opening number.

Noemi T. Viado, GS School Directress and Administrator, welcomed the guests, participating schools and friends. Cathy Lopez, President of ASP Laguna Chapter, expressed gratitude for the presence of everyone who took their effort and time to be part of the celebration. She mentioned about the history of the Friendship Games. It started out as a sports fest initiated by ASP Laguna past president Ms. Riza Cansanay with the active participation of the ASP Laguna officers. The activity was supported by teachers and students from Letran College Calamba in 2006. The event served as an inspiration to come up with what is now called the annual Friendship Games. Fun, camaraderie and sportsmanship are the objectives of the Games.

Mary Janette Peña, member of the ASP National Board of Trustees and Hon. Bong Bejasa Jr., from the City Council of Biñan gave inspirational messages. Led by Los Baños Association of Parents of Children with Disabilities, Inc. (LBAPCD) President Genaro Calderon, ASP Laguna Chapter Secretary Consolacion Cruz, LBAPCD Treasurer Salve Lapastora, and Autism Resource Center trainee Michael Cansanay, the oath of sportsmanship was recited together with the people present in the basketball court. The games started as the Chapter president declared the opening of the 9th ASP Laguna Friendship Games and immediately headed to the football field for the torch lighting ceremony. It was led by a special guest, Mr. Gerry Urcia, who was assisted by Teacher Wyler of GS Option House and Learning Center. Representatives from each school also took part.

In line with the theme, Larong Pilipino was given emphasis reviving the fun-filled childhood games for 5 years old and below such as sungka relay, here comes the sun, coconut leaves weaved ball shooting and finding coins. Revisions were made from the Filipino games to suit the child’s capacity to play. The games for the 6-11 years old category were the following: revised palo sebo (20-meter distance flag relay), going to the market, running, vegetable relay, 30 seconds stationary ball catching, tumbang preso and sungkayaw. Games for participants 12 years old and above were sack race with assistance, buko relay, sack race, running and tied legs. Poster making contest was done simultaneously with the games.

While the participants ate their lunch, they were entertained by Jollibee, who came in mascot, from its Pacita branch. To complete the theme, we witnessed a cultural show, namely the Filipino folk dance with 6 to 10 members including 2 teachers and a singing contest with at least 2 to 3 participants including a teacher using music produced or made in the Philippines or by Filipino musicians at least over a decade ago.

We were blessed to have ASP National President Ms. Mona Magno Veluz for being one of the judges. She also gave an inspirational message to all of the attendees. She was joined by other judges: Jacqueline Tan, Sid Galman, Mr. AJ Masajo, Norma Urcia, and Ma. Ana del Valle.

The event ended on a high note with the awarding of trophies, medals, plaques and gift items to the winners and certificate of participation to all participating schools and centers. The over-all champion for the 9th ASP Laguna Friendship Games is GS Option House and Learning Center, Inc. Autism Resource Center and Work of Heart Child Center, were respectively awarded as first and second runner ups.

The success of the event was made possible because of the support of all the sponsors, donors, guests, friends, school participants and also the volunteers from Perpetual Help Biñan Campus, Adventist University of the Philippines, San Pablo Colleges and GS Option House and Learning Center, Inc. (Grade 5 and 6 students).

Winning the game is only secondary to this event. What matters most is the unique meaning of participation and inclusion: not only for the children with special needs but the entire family members as well as other kind-hearted persons who support this active endeavor of the chapter. It is a learning experience of shared moments with families of children with special needs, teachers and friends. Let us all join hands as we continue to make a difference in the lives of these children.

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,children,community,regional,sports

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

ASP Diliman holds a Walk and Art Summer Camp

The warm breeze of summer inspired the ASP Diliman moms to try another activity for Summer 2014. ASP Diliman spearheaded a Walk and Art Camp in UP Diliman last May 15, 2014 for Teens with Autism (TWAs) Jason Inanuran, JV Legarto, Macky Palomares and Vincent Benoza, together with their supportive moms and siblings. These boys braved the afternoon heat to the enthusiastic cheers of their moms, siblings and the UP SPED Soc volunteers.

PWAs and volunteers from the UP SPED SOC

The canopy of acacia and caimito trees around the UP College of Human Kinetics (CHK) shaded the young men in their sketching activity, as warm-up before the walk. Mom Len Inanuran prompted the boys to draw ‘what they see.’ True to the spirit of youth, they drew not only trees, but also the blazing sun, clear blue skies, walking people and even the passing buses along Commonwealth Avenue. After the sketching, volunteers from the UP SPED SOC guided them in the warm up exercises and finally their walkathon. Indeed, the boys have grown up as teens with strong stamina to finish the 2.2 kilometer UP Academic Oval.

Mommy Resy commented that the Walk and Art Camp showed how well these teeners have matured over the years. They can follow instructions better, showing improvement in their mental faculties and fine motor skills. Gone are the days when their hands were guided to correctly hold pencils or crayons. Their drawings correctly showed the recognizable features of trees, people, and clouds, among others. This is a big contrast to the doodles and dots of yesteryears. As expected, they wore big smiles as their photos were taken side by side with their art work and their peers. Gone are the reclusive boys who did not care about others or “walang pakialam sa mundo.” They borrowed and shared crayons with one another.

After the walk, it was delightful to hear them say “pagod na at gutom na.” They can now correctly express their feelings. They showed confidence in themselves as they enjoyed climbing the tree house, and playing in the swing, seesaw, monkey bars, balancing rails, among others.

From the successive summer sessions of swimming, basketball, soccer and now walking, these TWA’s have grown up to be young men with robust bodies, strong hands and feet, and good eye and body coordination. But more importantly, they have peers whom they trust and call friends.

A Father’s Day lunch get-together held last June 14, 2014 culminated the 2014 summer for ASP Diliman where the kids played basketball and enjoyed lunch with their parents.

About the Author. Resy Benoza is the PRO of ASP Diliman Chapter

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Posted in: art,chapters,community,sports

Unified DancExercise Party

Let’s get physical! That’s how we’d shout out for this activity held at the SM Sucat 3rd Floor Activity Area last May 24 at 10:00am. Dubbed as the “Unified DanceExercise Party” - the kids, the parents, siblings and therapists, not to mention the grandparents and caregivers, participated in the highly energetic dance party led by two very lively and well-coordinated dancers. We danced to the latest dance tunes and sweated it out while having so much fun. It was an activity meant to introduce us to Special Olympics Philippines, where children are able to participate, perform and achieve.

Unified DanceExercise Party Group

Truly, activities such as the DanceExercise Party and the Special Olympics inspire our special children to dream, perform beyond their current abilities and feel the triumph and fulfilment of achieving so much more. For the parents, it provides a sense of comfort that their kids are capable of aspiring and working hard to attain their goals, no matter how big or small it may be. The family is provided an opportunity to support the special children in this worthwhile endeavour.

Thank you to the children for doing their best and for a job well done and thank you to organizers and parents for providing a place for the children to be themselves and do more!

About the authors:

Imee Alviso is a full time housewife, a mother and sometimes a father because her husband works abroad as a website designer for 15 years now who comes home monthly. An operating room nurse at Saint Lukes before who resigned to give priority to her family. Imee is an ASP member for almost 12 yrs now - she was treasurer of ASP Metrosouth and now President of ASP Parañaque.

Jennah Suarez is a Mom 24/7. While balancing family and career, she managed to pursue her studies and ventured into several businesses. She now aims to be more involved in issues closer to her heart and help her child Jerice and children with autism to cope, be productive and gain acceptance.

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Posted in: chapters,community,special olympics,sports

ASP Marikina Taekwondo and Yoga Classes

ASP Marikina Valley Chapter sponsored taekwondo and yoga classes for special kids and parent members this summer.

Taekwondo Class

The taekwondo lessons were spearheaded by Atty. Marian Aningat, an ASP Marikina chapter member who happens to be a black belter of the sport. She was ably assisted by her brother who is also a taekwondo enthusiast. Mr. Alex Cabason, Jr, ASP Marikina President coordinated with Barangay Captain Manuel Sarmiento for the use of of the Barangay Jesus dela Pena Multi-Purpose Center, as the venue of the three days taekwondo sessions which started on April 6, then on April 12 and ended on April 13.

The yoga sessions were made possible thru the efforts of Ms. Maya Ignacio, ASP Treasurer. She coordinated with Ms. Winkey Sanchez, a certified Yoga instructor and a mother of a 15 year old boy on the spectrum. The venue for the yoga sessions was at the Young Genius Learning Center, located at Marikina Heights, Marikina City; and was attended by around 15 ASP Marikina members. The activity made everyone perspire; but it was still enjoyable.

The families of ASP Marikina are looking forward to a “swimming” get-together to end the summer.

About the author: Alejandro S. Cabason Jr. is a graduate of AB Political Science from the University of the East Manila and of MA in Public Administration from the University of the Philippines Diliman. This public servant, church worker and a motivational speaker is happily married with four children. His youngest child, Victor Lorenzo or Vinz is on the spectrum. An ardent advocate of autism education since 2002, he is the President of ASP Marikina Valley Chapter.

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Posted in: chapters,community,sports

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

Love overflows at the 8th Laguna Friendship Games

The 8th ASP-Laguna Friendship Games took place at the Nuvali Football Field in Sta. Rosa City took place on 8 February 2014. Selected trainees and apprentices from the Autism Resource Center joined in this annual one-day sporting event.

It started as early as 7:00 a.m. when the registration process took place as a total of eleven teams vied in more than ten sporting events. Laguna-based schools that tool part in the fun-filled day included Field of Little Hands School Inc., Child and Teens Success Intervention Center, Autism Resource Center, Liliw Intervention Center, Shepherd of Faith SPED Center, Hope Intervention Center, GS Option House, Paete Intervention Center for Autism and Related Disorders (PICARD), Calamba City SPED, Work of Heart Child Center, and Child Formation Center. These institutions are based in San Pablo, Calamba, Biñan, Santa Rosa, Los Baños and Paete.

This year’s event was hosted by the Work of Heart Child Center. The Oath of Sportsmanship was headed by Arlene Humarang, a mother; Emmanuel Zamora, a PWD; and Teacher Eric Cuenca of Hope Intervention Center. Allison Dave Albert Lareza led the national anthem and the lighting of torch was spearheaded by representatives of all participating schools. The doxology was led by a group of students from the Work of Heart Child Center.

A little boy plays 50-meter run

A total of 412 students participated in more than 10 sporting events, divided into categories based on age. Some of the events are the 25-meter walk relay with assistance, 25-meter walk relay without assistance, tug-of-war, 50-meter-run with assistance (boys and girls), 50-meter run without assistance (boys and girls), sand relay, tug-of-war, tire relay, coin bank relay, balloon popping, tied legs (garter) relay, puzzle relay, sack relay, straw relay, badminton, dance contest, poster making contest, Little Mr. and Miss Friendship for 12 years old and below and Mister and Miss Friendship Games for 12 years old and above.

This year’s theme is about the rights of persons with autism. Franco Cagayat, a sculptor from Paete, was one of the judges in the poster-making competition. The elections of ASP Laguna also took place during the event. The new sets of officers were introduced during the closing ceremony of the games.

GS Option House served as this year’s grand winner. Hope Intervention Center, Autism Resource Center, Child and Teens Success Intervention Center received the first-runner up, second runner-up, and third-runner up titles respectively for their dedicated team efforts in all the games and activities.

This article is the contribution of David Michael C. Lopez of the Autism Resource Center in Los Baños, Laguna.

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Posted in: authletics,chapters,community,laguna,leaders,sports

Coaching a Special Olympian

This article appeared on 24 February 2014 in the print and on-line versions of Manila Bulletin's "Angels Talk", edited by Dang U. Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus.

Special Olympics is the world’s largest sports organization for children and adults with special needs, providing year-round training and competitions to more than 4.2 million special athletes in 170 countries. It gives continuing opportunities to these truly special people to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and share gifts, skills and friendships with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and their communities.

Our Angel Talker this week Beth Jimenez and her family are based in Texas, USA. Her son John Joseph was diagnosed with autism at age three and this turned her into an active advocate for children with special needs. She now serves as volunteer coach for the Special Olympics of Fort Bend.

*****

My family and I moved to Houston, Texas in 2001. In our effort to look for extracurricular activities for our autistic son, JJ, we discovered that the local school district provided activities for children with special needs under the umbrella of Special Olympics. JJ really enjoyed the competition and sportsmanship, so after he graduated high school and was no longer eligible to compete through the school district, we looked for opportunities that will allow him to continue to compete. We found the ARC of Fort Bend County, a non-profit organization that offers Special Olympics training for adults with special needs – basketball, aquatics, softball, bocce, golf, track and field, volleyball and bowling. We immediately enrolled my son, and he started to participate in almost all of the sports, except for track and field. His favorite, and the one he excelled in the most, was swimming.

John Joseph Jimenez is a person with autism who has won multiple medals for swimming in the Special Olympics.

It hasn’t always been so easy for JJ to swim since he was scared of open waters. It did not stop us, however, from taking him to the beach or riding boats so that he would feel more comfortable with the concept. He would watch his younger sister take swimming lessons, and we could see from the look in his eyes that he was eager to do the same. One day, his teacher took him to the swimming pool and found out that JJ had, amazingly, learned how to swim just from watching his sister. Soon enough, his fear of water turned into love.

Being an expatriate family, moving frequently from country to country, we sometimes found it difficult to find good teachers for JJ. Thankfully, we found a good swimming instructor for him while we were in Caracas, Venezuela. Although he didn’t speak English, he was very adept at training JJ by physically showing him the strokes. The rest, as they say, is history. Now, JJ has won many gold medals in Special Olympics.

Our entire family has become involved with Special Olympics. Both my husband and I are certified coaches, and my daughter volunteered when she was in high school and university. She now shows her support by sponsoring some of the events through her company and by donating team shirts to the athletes. While some of our volunteers and coaches have family members with special needs who are directly involved with the sports, others do not have and just want to donate their time and effort to the program because they fell in love with the athletes. Such is one of our head coaches who said that even when she had a bad day in the office, she would always look forward to the practices to see the smiling faces of her athletes. She said she loves that they are so genuine and truly happy to be there, with no pretensions whatsoever.

Volunteers serve as the foundation for Special Olympics. They act as coaches, officials, committee members, competition assistants, speech coaches, and they fill many more roles to ensure the program’s success. To guarantee proper preparation and training, volunteers must complete a certification program prior to becoming a Special Olympics coach, and they must attend training school each season. But the basic requirements for becoming a Special Olympics coach are very simple: a big heart and love for fun.

Once the volunteers are trained, the focus turns to the competitive aspect of Special Olympics. The athletes train intensely under the volunteer coaches for eight weeks prior to each sporting competition. The competition starts with the Area Games and whoever participates earns their ticket to the State Games. This is a very exciting time for the athletes because they get to travel, stay in hotels and eat in restaurants – privileges some of them are not able to experience on their own.

During the actual Special Olympics, volunteers are so important. Special Olympics requires a ratio of one chaperone per four athletes. Many of our athletes require medication so one person is dedicated to make sure that all medications are administered correctly. Volunteers need to wake up as early as 5 a.m. to make sure their athletes have breakfast and receive their medications before heading to the competition site. They also serve as psychologists and counselors to the athletes because, unfortunately, not everyone can win first place. It is in those moments that they try to instill the lesson from the Special Olympics Oath that each athlete utters before the start of every competition: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

In the end, Special Olympics owes its success to these individuals who volunteer their time and effort. They make such a difference in the lives of each and every one of the Special Olympics athletes.

JJ is now 31 years old, he has been competing for many years and has benefited greatly from Special Olympics. It is quite an endeavor to get him and the rest of the athletes ready for competition, and then another undertaking to bring everyone to the competition. Countless hours have been dedicated to the coaches’ trainings, the coaches’ meetings, the athletes’ practices and the competitions, but it is something that we do gladly and wholeheartedly. JJ has faced many obstacles in life, and we have no doubt that there will be many more. But there is nothing more touching, or satisfying than the priceless look on his face when he’s awarded a gold medal and he exclaims, “I’M A WINNER!”

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ASP is starting a series of webcasts from the Special Learning ABA Training Program. March 1 session features Effective Methods to Teach Functional Social Skills by board-certified behavior analysts and highly-trained behavior therapists Tabitha Kirby and Julie Roumeliote. For details, follow us on Facebook or visit http://autismsocietyphilippines.org.

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Posted in: angels-talk,sports

ASP takes part in “No Speed Limit”

The ASP Family were among the early birds who flocked to the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym for the Ateneo Special Education Society’s “No Speed Limit” -- the organization’s annual fundraiser -- last 9 February 2014, as early as 5am.

The run attracted 1,300 participants -- including ASP leaders and their loved ones. ASP Trustee Peng So completed the 3k run with her CWA Patrick only a pace or two ahead. ASP Trustee Grace Adviento also completed the 3k run; while triathlete hubby Glen Adviento finished the 21k. Even the father of ASP Admin Manager Ida Blasco ran the 10k, in support of the event! ASP Trustee and Marikina Chapter President Alex Cabason made an appearance with the whole family, as they were part of the organizing committee.

PWAs and family during the run

ASP Mona Veluz spoke briefly on stage about ASP’s advocacy; while CWA Carl Veluz was busy assisting the ASP Secretariat at the ASP booth, strategically near the start / finish line. The ASP Booth offered token prizes to runners who tried our “Color Sorting Challenge” -- a skill, some may say, individuals on the spectrum would excel at. Everyone enjoyed the game regardless!

The Autism Society Philippines was joined on the fairgrounds by the Special Olympics, Cerebral Palsied Association of the Philippines, KAISAKA Inc., among other disability groups. The runners who completed the course surely felt the satisfaction of ”helping out while working out.”

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Posted in: community,special,sports

PWAs shine at the Special Olympics Asia-Pacific Games 2013

The Special Olympics 2013 Asia Pacific Games was held at Newcastle, Australia on December 1-7, 2013, with over 29 nations and 2,500 athletes and coaches from different countries participating. Australia’s Governor-General, Quentin Bryce, declared the Games open at Hunter Stadium. Bryce, who is also the Patron of Special Olympics- Australia, welcomed the participants, saying “Tonight we come together to celebrate our athletes' remarkable sporting talents and determination to give their very best. Special Olympics athletes, I know that each and every one of you will compete with strength, determination and courage.”

One of the biggest moment for the special athletes is when they took their traditional Athlete’s Oath: "Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."

Athletes from the 2013 Asia Pacific Games in Australia were welcomed in Congress by Representative Abueg

The Philippines’ Michael Almendrala, a person with autism, won a Bronze medal in bowling, scoring 415 points. Tita Carmel, Mike’s mother and a Board of Trustee at ASP, shared that being a part of this competition is enough for Mike. “For all of the challenges, training Mike encountered, he passed through he made it to the finish line,’ she said. Mike feels full of pride to win this battle with excitement. Aside from 2013 Games, Michael also represented the country in the Special Olympics World Summer Games held in Shanghai, China last October 2007 where he placed 4th in powerlifting and received commemorative medals too.

Raymond Macasaet, a young man on the spectrum, won a Bronze Medal in the 200m Freestyle Swimming event. Raymond has also competed in Greece at the Special Olympics Summer Games in 2011, from where he took home silver and bronze medals for Freestyle Swimming. Raymond is a student of the Independent Living and Learning Center; and performed at the Angels Walk for Autism 2014 as part of the “ILLC Heartthrobs.”

Mike and Raymond are only two of the many talented PWAs who have grown through the opportunities provided by Special Olympics. Connect with Special Olympics on Facebook to know more about their programs: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Special-Olympics-Philippines.

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Posted in: feature,sports

ASP at the NBA Cares event

Active members of the Autism Society Philippines were special guests of SM Cares to a meet-and-greet with visiting NBA players last 09 October 2013 at the MOA Arena. Individuals with autism and their family members had a fun afternoon, watching the players of Indiana Pacers doing a basketball clinic with selected 60 participants from Special Olympics Philippines. They were then treated to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the players like All-Star, Roy Hibbert and legends, Ron Harper and Jalen Rose. This is a part of the NBA Cares program under NBA Global Games. The Pacers and the Houston Rockets played an international pre-season game in the Philippines -- a first for the country!

ASP Family at NBA Cares event

The arena was in a festive mood. Children from ASP and Down Syndrome Philippines were excited to meet their NBA idols. The event showed how the players interacted with different children with disabilities and it was a learning experience for them. David West, one of core players of the Pacers, said in an interview with Philippine Daily Inquirer that “It’s always a good opportunity to be able to impact these young people. Even though we understand that they have some disabilities, they don’t allow that to kill their joy. They’re very energetic. When we interact with people, we wanna make sure they come away feeling good about who they are.”

It was also an opportunity for PWAs to bond as a group, without their parents. They were shown seating together in the bleachers and just enjoying the show. They were ecstatic when another Pacers All-Star, Roy Hibbert, approached their stands and happily interacted with them. He even signed their shirts.

Our children came home with bright smiles and lasting memories of their encounter with the NBA superstars. Many thanks to SM Cares for this rare opportunity!

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Posted in: chapters,community,sm,special,sports

ASP Cavite Chapters Join Forces for Special Mini-Olympics

ASP Bacoor, Dasmariñas, Carmona, Gen. Trias, Molino, Tanza, Trece Martirez, and Cavite-North Chapters join forces for the NDPR Week Celebrations with the yearly Special Mini-Olympics.

Muneer Peña during the past Special Mini-Olympics

2010 Cavite Special Mini-Olympics

Program Schedule

Mon., July 19, 2010, 1-4pm – Kick-Off of NDPR Week Celebration
Poster-Making Contest – SM City Dasmariñas

Fri., July 23, 2010 – 1-4pm – Group Hiphop Dance Contest
SM Supercenter. Molino, Bacoor

Sat., July 24, 2010, 8-4pm – Motorcade and Sports Events
Venue to be announced later

Wed., July 28, 2010, 1-4pm – Solo Singing Contest
SM City Rosario

Fri., July 30, 2010, 1-4 pm – Awarding Ceremonies
SM City Bacoor

The activities are open to ASP CAVITE CHAPTERS MEMBERS ONLY. For interested parties who wish to become members of the chapters, kindly call ASP Cavite Chapters “Governadora” Jan Peña at 0915-985-7828 and/or 0920-824-7636.

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Posted in: chapters,sports