ASP attends special screening of HBO’s Temple Grandin biopic ~ Autism Society Philippines

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

A special screening of Temple Grandin’s Biopic, courtesy of HBO Asia, in cooperation with Autism Society Philippines, was held on 23 August 2011 at the Quality Life Discoveries, Quezon City.

Participants of the Special Screening

The made for TV biopic earned 7 Emmys, 1 Golden Globe, and 1 Screen Actors Guild Award. Three trophies go to Claire Danes (from the 3 awarding bodies) for her outstanding portrayal as the young Temple Grandin, from a struggling student coming to terms with her autism and her gift tof he scientific community. Click here to read more.

Temple Grandin with Claire Danes (photo courtesy by HBO)

Ms. Angela Poh, HBO Asia’s Senior Executive of Communications, flew from Singapore to promote the film locally. She was joined by Dessa Joyce M. Virtusio, VP for Account Management, Virtusio Public Relations, Inc. Temple Grandin premiers September 2, 2011 (Friday) at 10pm local time on HBO, HBO HD and HBO Signature.

ASP Executive Director, Ranil Sorogon, hopes that HBO Asia can help with the organization in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Ms. Angela Poh promised to send a complimentary copy of the film for ASP’s advocacy projects.

“Persons with Autism must be respected and recognized by society. This film is a good example to promote autism,” commented Mr. Rizalio Sanchez, Chief, Information, Education and Communication Division (IECD) of National Council for Disability Affairs.

The Department of Education was represented by Ms. Malou Vispo, from the Special Education Division, and is currently in-charge of Programs for Autism. “This film can serve as a training tool for principals, teachers and students in understanding people with autism.”

A panel discussion headed by ASP Chair Emeritus, Dang Koe was followed. She was joined by two Persons with Autism, JR Tan and Gabby Atienza. Dr. Tippy Tanchanco, Developmental Pediatrician, also served as guest panelist, was visibly affected by the movie, said that the film is a tribute to Persons with Autism. “In the film, many doors were opened for Temple….may we also open doors for them.”

The Panelist: HBO Asia’s Senior Executive of Communications Ms. Angela Poh, PWA JR Tan, PWA Gabby Atienza, ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe and Dr. Tippy Tanchanco, Developmental Pediatrician

Mr. Archie David, Executive Director of Quality Life Discoveries, gave an overview of the programs and services of QDL, including a tour of the facilities. A hearty lunch of Filipino dishes was prepared, courtesy of trained students with autism from Independent Living and Learning Center (ILLC).

The event was also supported by ASP National President, Grace Adviento and Board of Trustees, ASP National President and leaders from the following chapters UP Camp Manila, Markina Valley, Cavite Chapters and Quezon City Chapters.