PWAs Work and Save for a Brighter Tomorrow

By: Persons with autism in ASP Laguna Chapter

Below are inspiring testimonials of employed people with autism in ASP Laguna Chapter’s Autism Resource Center (ARC). The center recently received The Outstanding Organization Award during the 395th Founding Anniversary of Los Baños, Laguna. The testimonials below are forwarded by Ms. Lian del Valle, ARC Trainer in charge of Work Program.

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“Cashier ako sa canteen ng ARC. Naglalabas ako ng dishes. Nagbibilang nang money ng customers. Nagpapack away ng dishes. Naglalabas ng straw at ng signboard. Naglalabas ng resibo. Nagwiwipe ng dishes noong dati. Nagpapack ng peanuts. Last September 26 bumili ako ng vitamin c sa Bucal. Noong March 20 hindi nakapagbowling sa SU at pinatago ko kay Papa yung P100 ko."

"I feel happy because may salary bonus sa peanut noong dati at sa bigas. Pag may pera ay makakaipon ako ng marami. May pambili ng vitamins ko pag ubos na vitamins ko at pambayad sa swimming every 3rd and 4th Friday” - Michael Cansanay, Male, 25 Calamba City.

Michael Cansanay while selling some food items

Rough translation
“I work as a cashier in the ARC’s Canteen. I count the money paid by the customers and give them their receipts. I also bring out the dishes, wipe the dishes (after washing) and pack away the dishes (after use). I also bring out the straw (for drinks) and the signboard (which contain the day’s menu). I also pack cooked peanuts (for selling).

I feel happy because I receive a salary bonus from peanut and rice repacking. Last September 26, I bought Vitamin C at a drugstore in Bucal. If I earn money, I can save more. I will be able to buy more Vitamin C when I have already consumed them. Last March 20, I wasn’t able to play bowling at SU, so I asked Papa to safe keep my 100 pesos. I have money to pay for swimming every 3rd and 4th Friday.

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"Si Philip ay kitchen/food service crew sa ARC. Binigay sa akin ang sweldo ni Philip, inipon at ngayon ay nasa P7,000.00 plus na ang total” (”Philip works as kitchen/food service crew in ARC. He gives me all his earnings. So far, he has saved more than P7000 pesos.) -shared by mom of Philip, Rene Rimas, Male, 20, Calamba City.

Philip Rene Rimas after washing and cleaning the dishes

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“I felt satisfied when I received my first allowance. I initially saved that money for future use. For me, it was a step towards financial freedom. My works in the ARC are offices and kitchen staff. I felt tired but it is compensated in many ways (recognition and salaries).

At first , I expected little results from my work, but due to the diligence and guidance of the staff and our hard work, plus the generosity and support of others, we have achieved many things, including the improvement of standards of many PWA’s, including productivity” - Ian Ferdinand Lopez, Male, 18, from San Pablo City.

Ian Ferdinand- Lopez while packing the beans on plastic

Click here to read more about the ASP-Diliman's Fieldtrip to Laguna Autism Resource Center

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ASP continues to give you inspiring stories of persons with autism. Are you inspired also to save for a brighter tomorrow? Be an Angel for Autism. Donate generously to Autism Society and help expand programs and services. Donate to ASP’s Banco de Oro Anonas-Kamias Branch savings account number 3980002955. Ask for your Official Receipt. Donors will be acknowledged. Call us at 7-903-5496 or email us autismphils@gmail.com.