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

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

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

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

Project Gourm-A Digital poster at Vatel Restaurant Manila

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

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

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

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

SOUP

Curried Cauliflower with roast cashew

Or

Zucchini, garlic with crouton and mozzarella

APPETIZER

Asparagus pomelo salad with andalusia dressing

MAIN ENTRE

Beef Bourguignon

Slow braised beef in red wine, demi-glace,

onion, carrots, with potato gratin

Or

Salmon fillet with tian vegetables

Served with jasmine pilaf rice

DESSERT

Cerveza Negra and chocolate ice cream

Or

Mango crème brulee

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

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

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

The shared journey toward a UP sablay

Yesterday marked the end of a chapter and the beginning of another in Klarenz's life as he graduated from the premier university of the Philippines. Even though it was a joyous, momentous day, my brother had to overcome a lot of obstacles that would have kept him from graduating. It's only right to properly thank the people who were part of his journey and share his story in the hopes of inspiring others.

UP Sablay

My earliest memory of Klarenz was riding a yellow jeepney to get to the hospital where he was born. I was only 8 1/2 years old so I didn't realize that it was a mere 1-minute ride from where I hailed a jeepney at the roundabout in Olongapo. He was such a beautiful baby. While I was frequently mistaken for a boy, he was often mistaken for a girl -- long eyelashes, black doll eyes, fair skin, plump cheeks. I couldn't wait to hold him in my arms. One day, when our mom went out to buy supplies at the store, I was left with my two younger brothers. Karlo and I couldn't resist cradling baby Bunso and peppering him with kisses. My mom caught us, of course, but I thought I had had enough practice holding Karlo and our younger cousins to know that I could carry our baby brother.

Then, when he was around two, we started to wonder why he wasn't speaking like kids his age. At the dinner table, he would mumble what seemed like gibberish (we even quipped he was speaking a mixture of Chinese, Russian, and Spanish!) though we would later on realize that there was a pattern to all his jibber jabber. Still, it was very concerning as this continued for the next few years. Finally, when he was around 5 years old, we went to a specialist. A penchant for lining up his toys but not playing with them, no eye contact, selective attention -- he was diagnosed with autism. I didn't fully understand it then, but I knew that there was a problem. That there would be more problems.

One time, when I was guiding his hand so he could learn how to write the letters of the alphabet, his Y kept turning into an X. I was in high school at the time, but I remember our dad picking up Karlo and me from our respective schools in Subic Bay and going to the Sinag SPED Center in town. Klarenz went there for a year so he could learn to be independent, be more sociable, and lose certain habits, such as asking his teachers to smell his armpit (It was cute then, but we knew it wouldn't be seen that way anymore when he's older). It was the place where we started learning about the needs of special individuals, and one of the most memorable characteristics of the kids in his class was that they were all so very sweet. Most of them were shy at first, but once they've warmed up to you, they're very generous with hugs. Their parents, such as Tita Grace, were naturally some of the most understanding people you would ever meet. Lorenz's mom, Tita Edna, is one of the foremost autism advocates in our hometown. Klarenz was only there for a year thanks mainly to Teacher Marie and Teacher Malou, who are such kind souls. Their job takes so much strength and patience, but they were like a second mom to everyone in that class.

For the next three years, Klarenz would study at a regular public school for him to be integrated into mainstream classes. There wasn't a lack of issues there for sure. He was the "spokening dollar" kid. Many of the other kids and their parents didn't know how to act around Klarenz and our family. It was around that time when I went to college. Before going to UP, though, I gathered some of my dad's research as well as did my own, hoping to learn that there's a cure or some way to ease our family's concerns. Until now, scientists are still trying to figure out the exact causes of autism.

It was obvious that Klarenz wasn't getting the intellectual stimulation he needed because he easily got bored in class. Consequently, in fourth grade, he was transferred to the Center of Excellence (CENTEX) in Olongapo. There he and my parents met their future allies and friends in high school and beyond. My younger brothers and cousins in Subic all went to the same high school I did. A school that I was very proud of, that is, until I heard about the incidents. While at a team building weekend in Tagaytay, I was on the phone with my mom when I learned about what was happening. His classmates had put him in one of the closets. They put bleach in his bag. One time, he and another kid were sent to the principal's office, and the other kid's parent cursed and yelled at my brother. Students, and parents bullied him. Teachers were not equipped to handle such situations. The principal then threatened to expel my brother. Those people cornered, provoked, and undermined my brother, not once, not twice, but several times over the years. They failed to understand what was lacking: the training to address such concerns and, more importantly, compassion. While my vengeful soul wanted to get back at the perpetrators, our dad managed to stay logical. No charges were made but a trained counselor was asked to give a seminar at school. According to our mom, things got better after that.

We were jubilant when Klarenz also got admitted to UP. At first, he was enrolled at Los Baños pursuing a degree in Applied Physics. However, as it was soon apparent that his heart was not really in it (and it was costly to maintain more than one house), we changed our strategy. With the help of my boyfriend, we were able to see how a degree in Library and Information Science would not only be more in line with Klarenz's strengths and interests, but the school also has one of the most supportive communities in UP Diliman. In August 2014, he began his 3-year journey in SLIS. Every day, our mom prepared meals and clothes for Klarenz while our dad tutored him. Our relatives, especially Big T, always showed their support in one way or another.

Fast forward to graduation day (because he had a lot of encouragement from family, friends, teachers, and classmates so there wasn't really any drama). This time yesterday, Klarenz shifted his sablay from right to left, an action symbolic of the success achieved when people support each other. Bunso, we have always believed in what you can do. We know that you can achieve even more. No matter what you decide to do next, we will support you.

Congratulations, Klarenz! Padayon, UP!

About the contributor. Krys Quinones is a doting sibling to PWA Klarenz. This article was first published on Krys' Facebook timeline on 25 June 2018 -- http://bit.ly/2IQh5XF #familyisforever

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Posted in: education,journey,self-advocates,university

The “Tuklas” of an Atenean on the Spectrum

Last March 25, 2018, I graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University together with the rest of my BS Computer Science 2018 batchmates. As I looked back at how I was able to survive college as an ASD student with the help and grace of God, I came to the conclusion that it was indeed a memorable time which changed my perspective for the rest of my life. Our batch has been called “Tuklas”, which could be translated as “Discover” in English. What follows is a brief summary of my experiences back in my days as an Atenean and how my quest for “Tuklas” ultimately led me to realize that there are indeed people who accepted me and supported me all throughout my studies.

For instance, there were my very considerate and caring friends and classmates that I have met in my entire four-year stay as a BS Computer Science student in Ateneo. During the Orientation Seminar for all Atenean newbies, I initially felt “out-of-place” because of new people and new places, but thank God, I was able to make new friends in that event. In fact, during an activity, most of my blockmates (aka my newfound peers) described me as an energetic, friendly, and a kind person. And in the years that follow, my colleagues were indeed a great help to me in that they guided me in my behavioral, moral, and spiritual maturity. Above all, they show no discrimination and favoritism. And speaking of which, I should never forget as well the organizations which further hone my skills and my advocacies, most notably the Computer Society of the Ateneo (CompSAt), Ateneo Mathematics Society (AMS), Ateneo Special Education Society (SPEED), and my Every Nation Campus Bible Study Group.

I should also not forget to mention the professors, staff, and subjects that made the most impact in the way I think about myself and others. My mentors from the Office of Student Services and Office of Guidance Counseling helped me to adjust to the new social environment at the Ateneo despite having ASD. The Introduction to Ateneo Cultures and Traditions (InTACT) program allowed me get to know more of myself and become more appreciative and open to others, my family, my country, and above all, to the Lord God Almighty whom I serve. My professor who taught General Psychology saw my potential to be an encouragement to others as an advocate for people with ASD. Along with others, I was chosen to take a course in Problem Solving Techniques and even went as far as coaching Ateneo Junior High School students for the Ateneo Mathematics Olympiad. Through Science and Society, I became very interested most especially in nutrition, health, and urban planning. A study in the life and works of Jose Rizal made me aware of the social and economic problems of the Philippines. Courses in Theology and Philosophy led me to further reflect on action for justice and the importance of community in helping out solve issues. Together with my group mates, our undergraduate thesis on eye-tracking provided the Ateneo Laboratory for the Learning Sciences with new insights on the differences on how novice and expert programmers read, understand, and debug code written in the Java programming language.

Besides the very accommodating people whom I encountered in my stay in Ateneo, there were other things I did which not only further my advocacy for people with special needs but also those which benefit all social sectors. Some of the events where I got involved in include Ateneo Mathematics Olympiad, as a coach for Grade 7 students, and later the Grade 8 students, Ateneo Summer Programming Camp, as a secretariat for the teachers class and as a tutor for the students class, Ateneo Center for Educational Development, where I joined in the feeding program of the Ateneo Blueplate for Better Learning as part of my Immersion requirements, and TALAB 2018, where I volunteered and assisted Ateneo SPEED. Outside of Ateneo, I also spend time teaching kids at Sunday School. And that does not end there. As of this writing, I am currently taking up my MS CS STRAIGHT program in my alma mater and I have plans on either continuing eye-tracking studies which started back in my undergraduate thesis, or to create a new educational application altogether. Either way, these proposals aim to benefit people with special needs, more specifically children with ASD like me. In addition, I plan to finish the “construction” of my children’s educational blog entitled “The Adventures of Zene and Zeanne”, which teaches about Christianity and Philippine Culture. I’ll continue to support Autism Society Philippines and Best Buddies Philippines and I’m thankful to be a member of those organizations.

Let me conclude this article by going back to the graduation ceremony itself. In one portion of the event, I, together with the other JGSOM and SOSE graduates, were blessed and privileged to have Ms. Roselle Ambubuyog, a visually-impaired Atenean who graduated Class Valedictorian of Batch 2001, as our keynote speaker. But of all that she said in her speech that day, these statements stood out for me: “Desire to inspire, and serve without reserve... Never underestimate your capacity to inspire and be inspired.... Commit to excellence in service and don’t settle for ‘good enough’” (Ambubuyog). Let me tell you this: Don’t let your disability be an excuse for you not to be used by God for His wonderful purposes for this world. Psalm 139:14 says “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Thus, I challenge you, the next time you think that you can’t do it because of your weaknesses, say “With God, everything is possible!” (Matthew 19:26). Above all, I invite you to always “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Prov. 3:5-6).

Works Cited: Ambubuyog, Roselle R. “Seeing by Insight.” Ateneo de Manila University Commencement Exercises 2018. Ateneo de Manila University Commencement Exercises 2018, 25 May 2018, Quezon City, Ateneo De Manila University.

About the contributor: Ezekiel Adriel D. Lagmay graduated with a bachelors degree in Computer Science in 2018 from the Ateneo de Manila University. He earned Magna Cum Laude honors and his course's Program Awardee. This budding academician is moving on to take his Master's degree in Computer Science from the same institution.

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Posted in: inclusion,journey,university

UST-SLP celebrates Annual Play Day

Fairytales came true last 18 March 2017 as kids, parents, professors, and students got the chance to learn and play as beloved storybook characters came alive during the annual SLP Play Day at the Education Playground of the University of Santo Tomas with the theme, “HaPLAY Ever After”.

Ladies' group photo in Speech-Language Pathology Society

Spearheaded by the UST Speech-Language Pathology Society, the play event provided an avenue for students to interact both with kids and parents while incorporating learning into play. The vibrant and colorful booths of Pinocchio, Little Red Riding Hood, The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, and Hansel and Gretel, had cognitive and integrative skills incorporated in the activities to maximize learning through play.

When asked how on her experience, third-year batch representative Keziah Solomon recounted an experience she had with the kids during the event. She remembers a moment before all the booths were set when she would prompt a kid after seeing that he was interested with the preparations.

“When I got home, I saw a picture of me and that kid doing the makeup gestures. I suddenly became aware that what I was doing there was a small example of what I'll be doing as a future speech-language pathologist,” Solomon said.

Each year level had their own booths where they incorporated different skills such as naming, categorizing, following directions, and problem solving, to match the different games. The kids were given prizes and loot bags after every activity.

“It's just beautiful, how we can someday help these kids interact and communicate what they want to say and give them a greater quality of life. That's a great purpose to live for,” Solomon said.

While the kids were having fun learning, a parent training seminar was being conducted by the interns and higher year students. The seminar covered speech therapy and expectation setting, the importance of play and language stimulation for kids, as well as the importance of carryover goals at home. The parents shared their own experiences with the group as well as raised questions in what to do during and after therapy session.

SLP Society President Rose Mary Miclat stated that this event aims “to provide language stimulation through play to the clients, to encourage student involvement, and to develop the student’s skills and abilities.”

As a treat, the event culminated with a spectacular magic show, that marveled kids, parents, and future speech pathologists who all came together to celebrate the fun in learning. Members of ASP UP-CAMP were among the event participants.

“We hope to extend our festivities next year, creating booths that are more engaging, interactive, and fun-filled for the clients, while still incorporating speech and language therapy goals for them,” Miclat said.

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Posted in: play,speech,university

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 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

Lyceum of the Philippines University Cavite holds an Immersion Program with CWAs

Senior year psychology students from the Lyceum of the Philippines University Cavite, the League of United Psychology Students and the Autism Society Philippines teamed up to organize an immersion program for a unique exposure event with children with autism last 26 September 2015.

As a project for the subject Exceptional Psychology, the students came up with a program that elevated their knowledge and applied the learned skills in handling exceptional children. With the guidance from their instructor, Ms. Ruby Heramia, and Ms. Mary Janette I. Peña, President of ASP Dasmariñas Chapter, the immersion was made possible.

A week before the conduct of the event, Mrs. Peña was invited in the class and oriented the students as they will be the main facilitators of the event. She emphasized the nature and characteristics of the children inspired from her own experiences as a mother to one and from other mothers like her.

CWAs during Immersion Program

On the big day, the student facilitators started the registration as the children accompanied by their parents arrivede. The program commenced with a doxology prepared by the students, the national anthem and the opening remarks from Ms. Ma. Alodia C. Mercado, the Coordinator of the Psychology Program.

Each student-facilitator was assigned to a respective child, and accompanied them throughout the program. To brighten up the mood, a Zumba number was presented by the students. The children danced and followed smoothly in the rhythm as well. After the warm up session, the kids were given a health break where they enjoyed the prepared cupcakes and juices for them. A couple of games participated mainly by the children and their ates and kuyas for the day followed. The children were surprisingly active and fairly competitive. The children received tokens after each games. The program ended with an appetizing lunch for everyone, and followed by a speech from the head of the event Ms. Heramia, who thanked everyone who attended the event; the parents, teachers, as well as the student-facilitators who worked behind the success of the immersion.

The respective representatives from the ASP chapters FROM Silang, Bacoor and Dasmariñas were awarded with plaques of appreciation for making the event possible. The event ended with a group picture with all the attendees.

About the contributor: Erika Imperial is a fourth year student from Lyceum of the Philippines University Cavite, currently taking up Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She is the active Secretary of the League of United Psychology Students. She participated in several seminars in the past years including one in personality development (2014), as well as course-based conventions organized by Cavite Center for Mental Health (2014-2015).

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Posted in: chapters,regional,university

Creating a Language-Rich Environment at Home

On 27 April 2015, fourth year B.S. Speech-Language Pathology students from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) held a one-day fair for children with autism and their parents -- members of Autism Society Philippines. The event was dubbed “ZOOPER Fun Day: A Community Development Program for Creating a Language-Rich Environment.” Held at the UST Quadricentennial Park, the event aimed to promote and advocate for rich language development by imparting knowledge to the parents about language stimulation techniques and how to create a language-rich environment in their home setting.

Ms. Andrea Monique Dargantes, CSP-PASP and Ms. Mara Jo Bondoc, CSP-PASP gave a seminar entitled “Creating a Language-Rich Environment” to the parents in UST’s Speech-Language Pathology Laboratory. The parents actively participated, asking questions about how to further help their child and taking down notes.

Participants in Creating a Language-Rich Environment seminar

Simultaneously, each child was given an Ate or Kuya and then led to the UST Quadricentennial Park where four game booths and a puppet show awaited.

The one-day fair started with the children watching a puppet show based on the Dreamworks movie “Madagascar.” It followed a Dora the Explorer style of script that encouraged participation from the children. In the story, Alex the lion, Gloria the elephant, and Melmanthe giraffe embark on an adventure to find their friend Marty the zebra who they believe to have escaped from their zoo to find freedom in the island of Madagascar. They navigate the foreign world of the City, make their way towards a Ship, and reunite with their long-lost friend in Madagascar. Questions such as “Where are we going next?,” “Can you see Marty anywhere?” and “Can you count with us?” were asked to keep the children engaged and energetic.

The children enthusiastically answered the puppets’ cues with cheers and loud voices. Afterwards, the kids posed with the puppets for a quick photo-op before heading towards the booths with their respective Ate or Kuya.

The four game booths were carefully designed to elicit responses from the children.

• The Something Fishy booth has the child catching fishes from a basin of water, and each fish has a corresponding wh- question which the child will be asked to answer. The difficulty level of the questions are adjusted accordingly for the child by the students handling the booth.
• The Hungry Zoo encourages the child’s categorization skills. They are presented with a giraffe, a lion, and a basket of food. They are then to get all the vegetables for the giraffe and all the meat for the lion.
• The Zookeeper Says require the child to follow a set of commands to be able to feed the hungry monkey. They can either be told to choose a ball, shoot it inside a specific basket, clap their hands, jump, point, or gather the bananas. It facilitates language learning and improvement of receptive language skills through following commands of varying difficulties.
• The What’s Missing? booth presents blown-up pictures of animals with missing body parts posted on the wall. The kids go through the pictures one by one, get the animal’s missing body part, and stick it on the poster of the animal it belongs to. This activity, facilitated with instructions and questions from the students, improves receptive language skills of part-whole relationships.

At the end of the day, everybody went home with new learnings on how to help children with autism communicate with their surroundings.

About the contributor: Courtney Chua is currently an intern under the B.S. Speech-Language Pathology program of the University of Santo Tomas. She has served the Speech-Language Pathology Society of the University of Santo Tomas' College of Rehabilitation Sciences as its Public Relations Officer in 2012 and its Internal Vice President in 2013 and currently continues to serve the profession as she undergoes her internship year.

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Posted in: chapters,university

Understanding Autism with SPEED

The Autism Society Philippines was invited by Ateneo Special Education Society (SPEED) on 27 February 2015 for the SPEED Area Workshop on Autism at Berchmans 206 in Ateneo De Manila University.

Carl veluz with the SPEED organizers

With ASP Trustee Peng So as the main speaker, the students had a chance to look into the lives of families facing the reality of autism. The workshop also featured a panel discussion with adults with autism: Carl Veluz, Patrick So and Gabby Atienza. The discussion helped the students understand what autism is and what the challenges they face in their everyday lives. They asked the panel questions like:

-How do you define autism for people to better understand this condition?
-What makes you similar to other people without autism?
-What makes you different from others?
-What helps you cope/deal with or survive the challenges you encounter in your life because of their condition/autism?
-What are your plans for the future?
-How can you achieve these plans?

The Ateneo Special Education Society is a long-time partner of ASP and organizers programs and events for individuals with disabilities; as well as participants in many ASP events.

About the contributor: Carl Veluz was non-verbal at the age of 5, when he was diagnosed with autism. With perseverance and hard work, he graduated from high school in 2010. He continued his education at the Entrepreneurship School of Asia and most recently, at the Independent Living and Learning Center in Mandaluyong. Carl works as a staff assistant for his father's business and works part-time at Puzzle Gourmet Cafe in Quezon City. He continues to tend his on-line business called "Gregarious Gifts.”

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Posted in: adults,education,self-advocates,university

Splendour 2015

Valentine's Day came early this year! The Autism Society Philippines was invited to Splendour 2015 organized by Ateneo SPEED on 7 February 2015.

Our Adults with Autism during their "Prom" night

There were musical performances, photo booths, dances and games. Participants were given special sashes with "Best Date,” "Mr. Energetic" and the like, as a fun way to recognize how special people with exceptionalities truly are. ASP's Andrea Alviso, Kenrick Cheng, Gio Koe, Ian Lopez, Mico Ramos, Angelo So, Patrick So, Carl Veluz and their dates enjoyed the evening very much. Even our chaperones (aka mommies) seemed to have enjoyed themselves.

I am looking forward to our next "prom!”

About the contributor: Carl Veluz was non-verbal at the age of 5, when he was diagnosed with autism. With perseverance and hard work, he graduated from high school in 2010. He continued his education at the Entrepreneurship School of Asia and most recently, at the Independent Living and Learning Center in Mandaluyong. Carl works as a staff assistant for his father's business and works part-time at Puzzle Gourmet Cafe in Quezon City. He continues to tend his on-line business called "Gregarious Gifts.”

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Posted in: adults,friendship,socialization,university

A day to remember with St. Jude College

St. Jude Thaddeus, responded to the thrust of “Humanitatem” which meant service to humanity. The Psychology and Education Department of the School of Arts, Sciences and Education of St. Jude College Manila also answered the call to serve through a partnership with Autism Society Philippines called “A Day to Remember Persons with Disabilities” last 06 December 2014. Psychology and education of students from different schools and professionals from different organizations were in attendance. ASP UP-CAMP Chapter and Ms. Jan Peña orchestrated the execution of the event.

ASP Trustee with the organizer

Ms. Mona Magno-Veluz welcomed the participants to the event, and led the the group in a 1Pangako pledge. Ms. Erlinda “Dang” Uy Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus, spoke about her family’s journey and ASP’s advocacy. Mr. Evert L. Malapad, talked about care and intervention across the autism spectrum. National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) Chief of Information, Education and Communication Division Mr. Rizalino R. Sanchez shared the current trends in tertiary education, especially on the rights of students with disabililties.

About the contributor: Lloyd Ngo worked as an ASP intern when he attended Independent Living and Learning Center. He began working in 2012 as an encoder at the Ongkiko Manhit Custodio and Acorda Law Offices in Makati. He is currently ASP’s Program Assistant for Communications.

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Posted in: 4public,awareness,chapters,community,seminar,university

Assistive and Empathic Technologies for Autism

The First Forum on Assistive and Empathic Technologies for Autism was held to spark the conversation on the development of innovative ways technology can help Filipinos with autism and their families adapt to the challenges of the condition. The event was held at Dela Salle University Manila last 27 January 2015 as part of the celebration of National Autism Conciousness Week; and led by the Autism Society Philippines, SAP Philippines, DLSU-CEHCI and supported by the Occupational Therapists Association of the Philippines, Philippine Association of Speech Pathologists, Seer Technologies and Developer Connect Philippines. There were 500 participants who registered for the event -- including technologists, therapists, educators and parents.

The participants of the the First Forum on Assistive and Empathic technologies

Mr. Rizalio Sanchez of the National Council for Disability Affairs opened the event with a warm welcome. ASP National President, Ms. Mona Veluz followed with a short background of why technology will play an increasingly important role in helping Filipinos with autism live rich and purposeful lives.

Mr. Andy David, Director for Healthcare Solutions, SAP Asia-Pacific and Japan introduced a new collaboration solution called Care Circles, which allows stakeholders to an individual’s intervention and care to communicate and record milestones more effectively. The tool also provides Philippine-specific information and resources to those who are participating in the Philippine pilot being conducted by the Autism Society Philippines.

President of Seer Technologies Mr. Joseph Benjamin Ilagan and software designer Xerez Hernandez talked about Tom Taps. They shared the project milestones and their vision for the future of this Filipino-developed augmentative and alternative communication system.

DLSU Center for Empathic Human-Computer Interaction’s Nellie Chua -- summa cum laude of DLSU’s BSCS-ST‘10 -- discussed her project on teaching children with autism to improve eye contact through a computer-aided application which promotes mimicry. She also shared DLSU’s work on empathic spaces or rooms that can adjust (light, temperature, ambient music or sound) to the psycho-social condition of a person with autism. Memorable were Nellie’s sharing of how her project has touched the lives of the small children who have used her solutions.

The panel discussion which capped the interactive and engaging event focused on the Future on Autism Technologies in the Philippines. The speakers were joined by President of the Speech Pathologist Association of the Philippines Rowena Ynion, Occupational Therapists Association of the Philippines Officer Carina Marie Castillo and Head of the DLSU Center for Empathic Human-Computer Interaction Dr. Raffy Cabredo.

This first will be followed by many more; as the event’s success proved that assistive technology for people with disabilities is an under-addressed topic in the Philippine autism advocacy agenda.

About the contributor: Mona Magno-Veluz serves as the National President of the Autism Society Philippines. She received degrees in Business Administration, Applied Economics and Strategic Marketing from the University of the Philippines Diliman, University of Asia and the Pacific and the London School of Business. Drawing from her experience as a corporate communications professional, she helped grow the national advocacy initiatives such as the 1Pangako, ASP Angel Corps and the A-OK Philippines campaigns. Her eldest is PWA Carl, a young man working in their family business and growing his budding entrepreneurial venture.

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Posted in: 4pros,4public,nacw,seminar,university

ASP joins SPU in Launch of Music Therapy Center

The Autism Society Philippines was represented by Ms. Cecile Sicam, ASP Trustee at the launnch of the Music Therapy Program at St. Paul University Manila last 10 October 2014. She was joined by other esteemed educators who witnessed the ribbon-cutting, a survey of the facilities and a lecture-demo.

Ms. Cecile Sicam and Ms. Sol Bautista with St. Paul staffs

St. Paul’s University Manila boasts that this is “the first Music Therapy Center in the Philippines, which will provide music therapy services for differently challenged children, adolescents, and adults. As with all music therapy sessions, the goals of the music therapy offered in the Center depend on the needs, abilities, and challenges of the clients. They can range from increased mobility to improved communication skills, to reduced anxiety or exploring personal issues. Through music therapy’s well planned, professional, and skillful use of music, St. Paul University Manila hopes to help improve the quality of life for people with disabilities of various kinds and to help children with developmental disabilities to reach their highest potentials.”

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Posted in: education,therapy,university

UP-UST Students: Making Friends and Inspiring Change

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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