Laging Handa: Emergency Preparedness Para sa ASP Families

Autism Society Philippines (ASP)

Sa gitna ng patuloy na mga aftershocks at balitang posibleng malakas na lindol sa Pilipinas, maraming pamilya — lalo na ‘yung may kasamang bata o adult na nasa autism spectrum — ang nangangamba.

Pero tandaan: mas nakakabawas ng takot ang kahandaan. Ang kalmado, maagang pagpaplano at pagsasanay ay malaking tulong sa mga batang may autism na sensitibo sa pagbabago ng routine, sensory input, at stress.

Narito ang Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions ng mga magulang at tagapag-alaga — kasama ang mga practical, autism-informed na sagot mula sa mga eksperto.

1. Paano ko ipapaliwanag sa anak ko ang tungkol sa lindol o ibang emergency nang maiintindihan niya?

• Gamitin ang visual aids tulad ng social stories, drawing, o step-by-step pictures para ipaliwanag ang lindol, sunog, o baha.
• Gamitin ang simpleng wika: “Kapag umuga ang bahay, magtago tayo sa ilalim ng mesa.”
• Ulitin ito sa mga short practice sessions — kahit 5 minutes lang bawat linggo.

Mag-role play sa bahay para mas maging pamilyar sila sa gagawin.

2. Anong dapat laman ng emergency ‘Go Bag’ para sa batang may autism?

Bukod sa basic items (tubig, pagkain, flashlight, first aid), isama ang:

• Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs
• Paboritong laruan, kumot, o sensory tool
• Autism ID at contact info
• Communication tools (PECS cards, AAC device)
• Listahan ng gamot at routine

Ang layunin: bawasan ang stress at mapanatili ang komunikasyon kahit emergency.

3. Paano ko mapapanatiling kalmado ang anak ko kung may biglaang sakuna?

• Practice = Peace. Regular na drill (hindi nakakatakot) ay nakakatulong.
• Gamitin ang mga paborito nilang calming strategy — kanta, deep pressure, breathing.
• Siguraduhing ready ang Go Bag na may comfort items.
• Gumamit ng visual timer o schedule para sa transitions.
• Maging kalmado ka rin — naaamoy ‘yan ng mga bata.

4. Ano’ng makakatulong para hindi tumakbo o mawala ang anak ko sa gitna ng emergency?

• Practice the “Stay Together” rule gamit ang visuals.
• Gumamit ng autism/medical ID bracelet.
• GPS tracker (lalo na kung may history ng wandering).
• Gumamit ng buddy system — may assigned person na hahawak sa kamay nila.
• Maghanda ng info card: “I am autistic”, may contact details.

5. Paano ihahanda ang anak kong non-verbal o may limited communication sa ganitong mga sitwasyon?

• Gumawa ng visual cue cards — “Follow Me", “Quiet,” “Evacuate.”
• Maglagay ng communication passport sa Go Bag: mga triggers, calming techniques, kung paano siya matutulungan.
• Practice non-verbal cues with family, tulad ng tap sa balikat = “Let’s go.”
• Ipakita nang paulit-ulit ang mga signs tulad ng EXIT o DANGER.

6. May mga serbisyo ba o support system para sa PWDs sa evacuation centers?

• Ayon sa batas (RA 7277 at RA 11131), may priority dapat ang PWDs.
• Hilingin sa LGU na magtalaga ng quiet space o PWD-friendly zones.
• Makipag-ugnayan sa DRRM office ninyo — tanungin kung may inclusive emergency plan sila.
• Ang ASP at ibang orgs ay pwedeng tumulong sa advocacy.

7. Paano kami makikipag-ugnayan sa rescuers kung hindi nila alam na autistic ang anak ko?

• Maghanda ng autism ID o lanyard.
• Maglagay ng First Responder Info Sheet sa Go Bag:

1. Diagnosis
2. Triggers
3. Calming techniques
4. Contact info

- Kung kaya, ipakilala na sila sa mga barangay tanod o rescue volunteers beforehand.

- Advocate for autism awareness training sa LGU ninyo.

8. Safe ba ang evacuation centers para sa batang may sensory issues?

• Sadly, hindi palaging sensory-friendly ang mga centers — maingay, maliwanag, masikip.
• Magdala ng noise-reducing gear at sensory tools.
• Request for a quiet corner or separate room, kung puwede.
• Kausapin ang LGU at ang PWD focal person para sa mas inclusive na setup.

9. Pwede ba kaming gumawa ng personalized emergency plan para sa anak ko?

• Yes, highly recommended!
• Ilista ang:

Triggers (e.g., ingay, crowd, amoy)

Calming strategies

Communication needs

Escape routes and exits

Practice with family

I-coordinate din sa school at LGU para aligned ang plano ninyo.

10. Anong puwedeng gawin ng komunidad para maging inclusive ang DRRM para sa may autism?

• Maglunsad ng autism sensitivity training sa mga responder, barangay staff, at volunteers
• Isama ang PWDs sa mga DRRM drills
• Magplano ng PWD-friendly evacuation centers
• Hikayatin ang ID cards at registry ng PWDs para sa mabilis na tulong
• Makipagtulungan sa orgs tulad ng ASP sa local DRRM planning

Ang inclusive preparedness ay responsibilidad nating lahat

Kalma, Handa, Protektado: Para sa Anak na may Autism, Para sa Buong Pamilya

Hindi natin makokontrol ang mga sakuna. Pero kaya nating paghandaan ito — nang may empathy, strategy, at community support.

Ang Autism Society Philippines ay naniniwalang:

• Hindi kailangang perfect ang plan mo — basta personalized at consistent.
• Ang pagiging handa ay hindi nakakatakot — kundi empowering.
• Laging kasama ang mga may autism sa usaping kahandaan.

Stay calm. Stay ready.

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Posted in: 4public,disaster

CAMERAHAUS AWARDS TOP PHOTOGS AT THE ASP ANGELS WALK FOR AUTISM

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) and CameraHaus came together to honor creativity, advocacy, and the power of storytelling through images at the awarding of the CameraHaus Photo Challenge, held during the CameraHaus Photo Festival last August 28, 2025 at Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

The competition invited photographers to capture the essence of the ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2025, held in May, a landmark event that celebrates inclusion, acceptance, and the collective strength of the autism community. From the sea of green-clad walkers to the heartfelt moments shared by families, friends, and advocates, photographers were challenged to showcase the humanity and spirit that define this annual tradition.

After careful deliberation, Camerahaus announced the winners:
1st Place: Jansen Dudang

2nd Place: Jennelyn Tamolang

3rd Place: John Carl Magalong

Their works stood out for their ability to capture not only striking images, but also the emotion, hope, and unity that have made the Angels Walk for Autism an enduring symbol of advocacy for nearly two decades.

The awarding ceremony was graced by CameraHaus executives Robenson Ong Lo (VP for Operations) and Richmond Chi (Facilitator), together with ASP Project Coordinator Tina Borbe. The event underscored the fruitful partnership between CameraHaus and ASP in promoting both artistic expression and disability inclusion.

The ASP Angels Walk for Autism, first held in 2000, has grown into the country’s largest gathering for autism acceptance. Year after year, it draws thousands of families, advocates, and allies, turning public spaces into platforms of awareness and pride. The contest brought a fresh dimension to the event—allowing photographers to interpret and amplify its message in creative ways.

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Posted in: awalk,volunteers

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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Posted in: 4public

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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Posted in: 4public,aworks

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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Posted in: 4parents,fsg