MIC ON, MINSPIRED: A MUSIC JOURNEY FOR ASP MEMBERS

The act of kindness from BTS Suga, who donated to a children’s hospital, has sparked another wave of generosity across the world. Inspired by his example, the BTS ARMY Bangtan Ajumma, represented by Dr. Maria Cielo Vida, extended support to the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) that gave eight musically-inclined youth on the autism spectrum the opportunity to join a group music workshop at RMA Studio Academy, a respected training institution for professional musicians.

Dr. Maria Cielo Vida, Coach Vida Kahlil, Ms. Peng So, Ms. Jade Riccio, Ms. Helen Cheng and Ms. Dang Koe

The workshop, called “Mic On, Minspired,” began last September 6 and will run for 12 sessions. It offers ASP members who went through a screening process, the unique chance to grow in confidence, discover their musical abilities, and enjoy collective creativity with fellow youth on the spectrum.

Their efforts will lead to the recital concert “That’s Amore” on November 9 at the Aliw Theater, where artists on the spectrum will share the stage with other performers. RMA celebrity performers Jade Riccio, Jose Mari Chan, Michelle Dee, Maymay Entrata, Rhian Ramos, Ina Raymundo, Pepe Herrera, Rain Celmar, Vivoree Esclito, John Arcenas, Renzo Jaworski, Jema Galanza, Imogen, Tali Sotto, Amari Sotto, Scarlet Snow Belo and Zia Dantes are slated to perform.

To mark this partnership, RMA Studio Academy and the ASP signed a Memorandum of Agreement during the “That’s Amore” concert media launch on September 10 at Fable Café + Lounge. ASP was represented by Chair Emerita Dang Koe, Trustee and National Auditor Helen Cheng, and National Trustee Peng So. Part of the proceeds from the concert will be donated to the Autism Society Philippines.

Participants during RMA Studio Academy

Dr. Maria Cielo Vida, Ms. Jade Riccio, Ms. Dang Koe and Ms. Helen Cheng

Coach Vida Kahlil, Dr. Maria Cielo Vida, Ms. Jade Riccio and Ms. Helen Cheng

This project is a celebration of inclusion, inspiration, and the boundless power of music to connect communities.

Get your tickets at www.ticket2me.net/.

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ASP x PSDBP: BUILDING ON YEARS OF COLLABORATION

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) left a meaningful mark at the PSDBP Biennial Convention, held at The Space at One Ayala in Makati, on September 3–4, 2025. Celebrating 25 years of developmental pediatrics, the convention gathered professionals, advocates, and community leaders centered on advancing care, compassion, and inclusive practice. ASP trustees were on-hand to show institutional support to partners who have been instrumental in providing early diagnosis and care for children on the autism spectrum.

The convention opened with a powerful, multi-lingual prayer led by a diverse group of partners, among whom was ASP Chair Emerita Dang Koe. Her participation set a tone of unity and inclusive intention behind the event. ASP’s presence carried through the program. Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National Spokesperson and Country Manager of the Autism Works initiative, joined a panel focused on adult transitions—highlighting the often-overlooked phase of life beyond childhood, and underscoring systemic support needed for success and independence.

The ASP AutisMALL pop-up shop, staffed by committed ASP HQ team members and members of the ASP Self-Advocacy Circle, showcased a range of unique merchandise for and by persons on the spectrum. The booth stood as a tangible example of economic inclusion, where participants could celebrate creativity, entrepreneurship, and visibility.

The PSDBP’s full scientific program covered a range of child-focused development and inclusive care topics. The event reinforced that inclusive care must extend to all stages of life and all community roles: as patients, professionals, entrepreneurs, and advocates.

The ASP wove the autism-inclusive narrative into the fabric of the convention. ASP’s participation sent a clear message: autism inclusion is central to building responsive, compassionate healthcare systems for today and tomorrow.

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ASP FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FOR OCTOBER 2025

Date: 25 October 2025, Saturday

Time: 10:00 AM

Register here to get the Zoom link: https://bit.ly/4qeuxdW

Registration deadline: 24 October 2025, Friday at 12 noon

The Autism Society Philippines’ Family Support Group sessions bring together parents, siblings, and other family members to share their journey of living with autism. Participants exchange experiences, drawing strength and insight from others facing similar challenges.

 

The Autism Society Philippines, together with this month’s host, ASP Muntinlupa, welcomes both members and non-members united by the shared experience of autism. Our goal is to educate, empower, and inspire as we work towards building an Autism-OK Philippines.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

If you have not received your Zoom credentials by 1:00 PM on 24 October 2025 (Friday), please email us at autismphils@gmail.com.

Please do not share your Zoom link. Only one device per registered name will be accepted.

Our Moderators:

Anna Dame M. Barbosa is a dedicated advocate who previously served as an ASP National Trustee. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Colegio de San Juan de Letran and has professional experience in customer support across both private companies and government agencies. Currently, Anna Dame serves as the ASP AUdventure Program Manager and is also a co-host of ASP PweDay, actively contributing to the organization's advocacy and outreach efforts..

Love Joy Alburo is a dedicated community volunteer in Muntinlupa, actively supporting programs for individual on the spectrum. Passionate about inclusion and empowerment, she continues to help raise awareness and create opportunities for individuals with special needs..

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ASP X DOHTONBORI PARTNERSHIP THRIVES

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) conducted two workplace sensitivity trainings for the Japanese casual dining chain Dohtonbori Philippines in September 2024, at the company’s headquarters in Pasig and at its SM North EDSA branch. A total of 30 crew members, fondly called “buddies,” joined the sessions alongside the HR team.

These trainings were designed as practical workshops, simulating real-life customer situations and everyday restaurant interactions. The Dohtonbori crew welcomed the coaching from ASP Autism Works Country Manager Mona Magno-Veluz, knowing it would equip them to support their teammate on the spectrum better and, more importantly, strengthen their culture of looking out for one another.

This is another milestone in ASP’s long-standing partnership with Dohtonbori Philippines, which began in 2017. From the beginning, the brand has opened its doors to Filipinos with autism, creating jobs in a fast-paced industry where teamwork and service matter most.

In a customer-facing industry, sensitivity training ensures that employees on the spectrum are supported. Co-workers are trained to understand autism and respond with compassion — from recognizing sensory sensitivities to giving clear instructions. This improves morale, strengthens team bonds, and reinforces a service culture that customers can feel.

Businesses that embrace disability inclusive hiring gain employees who are loyal, detail-oriented, and capable of excelling. When a restaurant like Dohtonbori demonstrates a genuine commitment to diversity, it earns trust and goodwill, not only from families who live with autism but from the broader public who value companies with heart.

The journey toward inclusive employment is not one a business should take alone. Success comes from partnering with the right organizations — those who understand both the lived realities of autism and the operational needs of companies. The Autism Society Philippines has been that bridge for countless partners, from retail to food service to technology.

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Posted in: 4public,Asert

ASP FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FOR SEPTEMBER 2025

Date: 13 September 2025, Saturday

Time: 10:00 AM

Register here to get the Zoom link: https://bit.ly/47zCvaG

Registration deadline: 12 September 2025, Friday at 12 noon

The Autism Society Philippines’ Family Support Group sessions bring together parents, siblings, and other family members to share their journey of living with autism. Participants exchange experiences, drawing strength and insight from others facing similar challenges.

The Autism Society Philippines, together with this month’s host, ASP Cebu, welcomes both members and non-members united by the shared experience of autism. Our goal is to educate, empower, and inspire as we work towards building an Autism-OK Philippines.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

If you have not received your Zoom credentials by 1:00 PM on 12 September 2025 (Friday), please email us at autismphils@gmail.com.

Please do not share your Zoom link. Only one device per registered name will be accepted.

Our Moderators:

Jane Ann S. Gonzales is a retired public servant and mother to a young adult on the autism spectrum. Formerly affiliated with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, she is currently the Program Director and Co-Owner of ILLC Davao Inc., a school that champions inclusive education, job readiness, and work placement. She helped establish the ASP Davao Chapter in 1995 and has since served as a resource speaker on autism parenting and advocacy.

Carlina "Babylin" Roa is the mother of Kalvin, a young adult on the spectrum who has been enriched through the ASP Autism Works economic empowerment program. A licensed Civil Engineer, Mommy Babylin found her true passion in Special Education and Counseling. She is the co-founder of Kite Strings Developmental Center, which supports those with developmental delays and guides families on their journeys.

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Posted in: 4parents,fsg