The 13th National Autism Consciousness Week

“Autism… the silent epidemic”. 1 in 150 individuals is affected with some form of autism. Recent studies in the US reported autism as the fastest rising developmental disability and more will be diagnosed than diabetes, cancer and AIDS combined in the coming years. Recognizing the gravity of this situation, United Nations (UN) General Assembly declared April 2 of this year and the succeeding years as World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) to create awareness on autism worldwide.

In the Philippines, at least half a million Filipino families are estimated to be affected with autism. In 1996, 13 years ago, former President Fidel V. Ramos signed Presidential Proclamation No. 711 declaring the third week of January as Autism Consciousness Week. The proclamation aims to promote awareness on autism and the provision of appropriate socials services to persons with autism.

Grade students in a classroom

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how an individual interprets what he sees, hears, touches and tastes, thereby, impairing understanding and use of language and his adaptation to his environment. Autism is not curable but is treatable, especially if the child is diagnosed and receives intervention early in life. With special education and therapy, most children with autism, can be trained to be self-reliant and productive members of society.

For the past 20 years, ASP is in the forefront of advocating and providing services to families affected with autism. From the original 11 mothers who banded together in 1989, ASP now has more than 6,000 members with 37 chapters all over the country. The theme of this year’s celebration “ASP @ 20 - Sharing HOPES. Building DREAMS” truly reflects ASP’s commitment to continue its mission as a beacon of hope to the hopeless and turning dreams into realities - step by step.

ASP spearheads the celebration in partnership with SM Committee on Disability Affairs, National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), NORFIL Foundation, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), House of Representatives Committee on Social Services, Buhay Party List, Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), Kapisanan ng May Kapansanan sa Pilipinas (KAMPI), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Department of Education (DepEd), Liliane Foundation and SM Supermalls.

Let’s join hands in solidarity with the Autism Society Philippines and all the families affected with autism in celebrating the 13th National Autism Consciousness Week. Let’s do our part in sharing hopes and building dreams. Let’s all be “Angels for Autism”!

Maraming Salamat at Mabuhay!

For details of the activities please refer to the attached schedule of activities. You may also call the ASP office at 7-903-5496.

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