ASP LEADS SENSITIVITY TALK AT DOTR DISABILITY TRAINING FOR BUS FRONTLINERS

A sensitivity training aimed at strengthening disability awareness and inclusive practices in public transport was launched on 17 July 2025 by the Department of Transportation – Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT), in partnership with SM Cares and various disability organizations.

A key highlight of the training was the participation of the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), represented by former Chairperson Erlinda Koe, a long-time advocate for autism inclusion. Koe delivered a focused session on autism sensitivity and response, equipping bus frontliners and law enforcers with critical insights into the unique needs of individuals on the autism spectrum. She was joined by autism self-advocate Mark Pampolina, who lent his perspectives to the animated discussion.

Her talk emphasized the importance of empathy, clear communication, and non-threatening behavior when assisting commuters on the autism spectrum. She also shared practical response strategies for high-stress situations that may involve individuals with invisible disabilities—crucial knowledge for EDSA Busway drivers, conductors, and transport personnel.

The broader training event sought to deepen the understanding of the rights and needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the context of public transportation. It aimed to ensure that frontline staff could provide compassionate, informed, and equitable service to all commuters, regardless of disability.

Participants included DOTr-SAICT staff, transport organization representatives, and key personnel from the EDSA Busway system. Topics ranged from disability rights and legal mandates to hands-on guidance for assisting individuals with various physical, sensory, and developmental disabilities.

Organizers stressed that true inclusion in transportation goes beyond infrastructure—it requires awareness, respect, and responsive action. The event underscores DOTr’s commitment to aligning public transport systems with national disability laws and international standards on inclusive mobility.

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Posted in: Asert

ASP AND THE NATIONAL LIBRARY OF THE PHILIPPINES SHAPE MORE INCLUSIVE LIBRARIES

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) joined hands with the National Library of the Philippines (NLP) and the National Council on Disability Affairs to bring a much-needed conversation to the forefront: how public libraries can better serve Filipinos on the autism spectrum, in observance of the 47th National Disability Rights Week. Held last 17 July 2025 at the Epifanio Delos Santos Auditorium of the NLP, the ASP's Autism Sensitivity and Response Training brought together public librarians and staff from across Metro Manila for a powerful afternoon of learning and reflection.

ASP Co-Founder Ms. Cecile S. Sicam, a long-time autism inclusion champion and a respected SPED educator, led the session with a mix of deep expertise and genuine compassion. She shared real-life stories and practical tips on how library staff can create welcoming environments for individuals on the autism spectrum.

This event reflected a shared commitment to inclusion. By equipping librarians with the right mindset and skills, the National Library is helping shape a future where libraries become safe, engaging, and supportive spaces for every kind of learner and reader. Libraries are vital community spaces, and their role in promoting awareness, representation, and dignity for those on the spectrum cannot be overstated.

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Posted in: Asert

Family Support Group for the August 2025

Date: 16 August 2025, Saturday
Time: 10:00am
Register here to get the zoom link: https://bit.ly/45D6PiX

Deadline of registration is 15 August 2025, Friday at 12 noon

The Autism Society Philippines’ Family Support Group sessions bring together parents, siblings, and other family members to talk about their journey in living with autism. Participants share their experiences and draw enlightenment and strength from others going through the same challenges.

The Autism Society Philippines -- together with this month's host, ASP Tuguegarao -- welcomes members and non-members, bound by a common experience that is autism. We aspire to educate, empower, and inspire to help build an Autism-OK Philippines.

IMPORTANT: Send us an email via autismphils@gmail.com if you have not received your Zoom credentials by 15 August 2025, Friday at 1pm. Please do not share your link — only one device per name shall be accepted.

Our Moderators:

Perlita So is currently an ASP National Trustee and the North Luzon Cluster Head. Mom to four children, two of whom are on the autism spectrum. Peng nurtures well-rounded skills, holistic well-being, and social connection of children and youth on the autism spectrum, as well as grows our circle of diverse volunteers and corporate partners -- as the Program Manager of ASP PweDay.

Jacqueline E. Verbo,  currently the Vice President of ASP–Tuguegarao, is a mother of four, including a child on the autism spectrum. She now serves in the academe at a state university in Cagayan, where she continues to advocate for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

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Posted in: 4parents,fsg

ASP JOINS QC IN NATIONAL DISABILITY RIGHTS WEEK KICK-OFF

Quezon City -- The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) National Headquarters joined the Quezon City Government in officially launching the 2025 National Disability Rights Week with a vibrant and meaningful Kick-Off Ceremony on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, held under the national theme “Innovations for Inclusion: Building Inclusive Communities Together.”

The ASP was founded in Quezon City in 1989 and has called the city its home since. Representing the ASP at the event were Chair Emerita Dang Koe, Trustee Helen Cheng, and Spokesperson Mona Magno-Veluz. The ASP team engaged actively in the day's activities, proudly setting up an informational booth that highlighted the organization’s wide array of programs and services for Filipinos on the autism spectrum and their families.

A key feature of the booth was the display of the Gawad Manuel L. Quezon, an award ASP received in 2024 in recognition of its long-standing commitment to inclusion and rights-based advocacy.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte led the program with a message of unwavering support for the inclusion of people with disabilities. She emphasized the city’s ongoing commitment to listening to the voices of persons with disabilities, addressing their real needs, and developing policies that create a tangible impact.

The event also drew participation from Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, Akbayan Representative Atty. Chel Diokno, along with officials from the National Council on Disability Affairs and PhilHealth, all expressed their solidarity with the disability community. The ASP is grateful for the stewardship and partnership of other QC leaders, such as Quezon City PDAO Chief, Kabahagi Center for Children with Disabilities Director Karen Sagun, and many others!

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Posted in: ndpr,ndprw

ASP HONORED BY THE PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS

Alabang, Muntinlupa City — The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) was honored with the “Parangal sa Natatanging Kaagapay: Katuwang sa Adbokasiya” by the Philippine Association of Speech-Language Pathologists (PASP) during the organization’s gala night last 13 July 2025, held at The Bellevue Manila. The recognition capped off PASP’s annual convention and highlighted the importance of enduring partnerships in the disability advocacy arena.

The award was presented to ASP and received by ASP Chair Emerita Dang Koe, in recognition of the organization’s steadfast commitment to advancing inclusive, accessible, and high-quality services for individuals with communication needs. The honor also recognized ASP’s consistent efforts in building meaningful, collaborative initiatives with speech-language professionals nationwide, as well as its contributions to the shared mission of empowering individuals with disabilities through communication and inclusion.

ASP’s collaboration with PASP spans years of joint events, public education campaigns, and continuing professional development activities aimed at creating stronger bridges between therapy professionals and the autism community. Through these efforts, both organizations have helped improve public understanding of communication challenges and the need for accessible, inclusive services that recognize the strengths and support the growth of persons with developmental and communication disabilities.

The gala night was also marked by a special musical performance from Ms. Charlene Danica Escasinas, a young woman on the autism spectrum, whose very presence on the event stage underscored the theme of empowerment and inclusion. Her skill and grace reflected the very outcomes ASP and PASP strive for -- individuals on the spectrum being given meaningful opportunities to participate, contribute, and shine in public spaces.

As part of its ongoing mission, ASP remains committed to collaborating with professionals, local government units, and national agencies to develop policies, programs, and platforms that address the genuine needs of individuals with autism. The organization humbly views this recognition as a tribute to the community it serves and a celebration of how far inclusive advocacy has come, powered by collective effort, compassion, and the belief in every individual’s potential.

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Posted in: 4public,awards,pasp