Philippine PWD Sector Prepares Parallel Report

By Ranil Sorongon, ASP Executive Director

In 2008, the Philippine Government ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). Through the ratification, the CRPD form part of the law of the Philippines that must be implemented by all government agencies and instrumentalities as the “duty bearers”. The government is also mandated to monitor its implementation and to submit a report as stated in Article 35 of the convention to wit “Each State Party shall submit to the Committee, through the Secretary General of the United Nations, a comprehensive report on measures taken to give effect to its obligations under the present Convention and on the progress made in that regard, within two years after the entry into force of the present Convention for the State Party concerned”.

Group Photo after Parallel Report

As the Philippine Government prepares its report, the sector of persons with disabilities took upon itself to organize the Philippine Coalition on the UN CRPD to also prepare a Parallel Report on the implementation and monitoring of the convention after its ratification in 2008. Through the support of the International Disability Alliance (IDA) and AusAID, coalition representatives underwent intensive education, trainings and exposure trips to be truly equipped in preparing the report. The group, headed by Mr. Lauro Purcil, the Lead Convenor conducted consultation-workshops around the country and distributed questionnaires to persons with disabilities as well as parents of children with disabilities to truly get the real situation of persons with disabilities.

With six consultations done in different parts of the country and more than 600 questionnaires answered by persons with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities, here are some personal observations:

1. After the 2008 ratification of the Philippine Government, not much has been done to improve the situation of persons with disabilities as well as the children with disabilities;

2. Philippine Laws need to be harmonized with the provisions of United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD). Case in point is the definition of disability in Republic Act 7277 (Magna Carta of Disabled Persons) which is still based on the medical model;

3. Most persons with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities are not aware on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities UNCRPD). For those who are aware, majority don’t know about the provisions of the CRPD.

It’s a gigantic challenge to the Philippine Government as the “Duty Bearers” and the sector of persons with disabilities as the “Rights Holders” to work as a team to realize those rights. With the coming of the new Asia-Pacific Decade (2013-2022) of Persons with Disabilities (PWD), the sector is full of hope in welcoming a new dawn.

Autism Society Philippines labors to make the rights real of all persons with disabilities especially those with autism. ASP is one of the members of the Philippine Coalition on the CRPD. ASP is also the in charge for the consultation-workshop of parents of children with disabilities tentatively scheduled on February 8 to 10, 2013.

The coalition would like to extend its gratitude to Mr. Alex Cote (IDA Capacity Building Officer) for his guidance in the preparation of the report.

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Posted in: international,seminar

Of Hope, Love and Joy

By Olive Medina, ASP Laguna Chapter

This is my third year of celebrating my birthday with the angels of Autism Society Philippines Laguna chapter. This group of parents with their young adults with autism have been such an inspiration to me. How they have managed to establish the Resource Center and reach to as many families in similar situations, armed only with their dedication and trust in God’s providence, is truly inspiring. So, in my own simple way, I have made it my commitment to be a channel of God’s blessing to them as they have been a great manifestation of God’s immense goodness to many.

ASP Laguna family riding a boat in Nuvali

This year, I together with some of my friends, family and friends of friends were able to send the group to Nuvali, Laguna for picnic and fun activities. We had a wonderful time doing boat rides, fish feeding, outdoor games and just hanging out together.

Living with autism has moments of great challenges and difficulties; but with it also comes great moments of unwavering hope, unconditional love and simple joys. I never thought that after years of being exposed to the realities of autism within and outside my home, I can honestly say that it has been my life’s greatest blessing. I am constantly evolving to become the person God intends me to be.

From an outsider, it seems that individuals with autism have a world of their own. But when one get to know them and see them for who they are and not fit them to any idea of what a “regular” person should be, and then one can realize that we have one world after all. We can truly live in harmony despite the differences. All it takes is love without limits.

“When you love, give it everything you’ve got. And when you have reached your limit, give it more and forget the pain of it. Because as you face death, it is only the love that you have given and received which count, and all the rest: the accomplishments, the struggles, the fights will be forgotten in your reflection. And if you have loved well, then it will all have been worth it. And the joy of it will last you through the end.” - Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, The Tunnel and the Light

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Posted in: special

ASP Lagro Pre-Christmas Party at SM Fairview

By Marietta Tan, President, ASP Lagro Chapter

Tan Family in Madagascar

ASP Lagro Chapter was invited by SM City Fairview to its Grand Christmas Launch last 10 November 2012. Krispy Kreme donuts and coffee kept flowing and so did the enthusiasm of the CWAs invited to the affair. They were amazed by the awesome presentations, themed "Madagascar Christmas Adventure" and featured storybook animals. Famous TV personality Michael V, QC Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, SM Shopping Mall President Annie S. Garcia, SM AVP Lisa B. Silerio and Assistant Mall Manager Rheybie Nipas brought wholesome fun to the event. Kids and parents were starstruck and so was the big crowd outside the event area. I was so happy to see big smiles on the kid's faces as they receive their gifts from Santa Claus. It was indeed a very happy way to kick - off the Christmas season.

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Posted in: kk,special

ASP lectures on UN CRPD in Manila

The Silahis ng Karunungan SPED Center of Padre Gomez Elementary School, Manila celebrated the 56th Special Education and Giftedness Week last November 21-27, 2012 through various activities that showcased the talents their students with disabilities, promoted the children's rights and educated their families. ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon was invited, through Ms. Beth Udquin and Jenette Rodriguez, officers of ASP UP-CAMP Manila chapter, to give a lecture on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UN CRC).

Ranilo Sorongon speaking during P Gomez Orientation

Even with the cramped and somewhat hot venue, the more than 120 participants composed of parents of students with disabilities, teachers, teacher-interns and students with different disabilities were attentive to the lecture. A student with autism was given an opportunity to read his right in front and a teacher-intern who is a sibling of a child with disability shared her “willingness wholeheartedly to take care of her sibling when their parents are gone”. They were both applauded by the audience.

The attendees showed off what they learned in the very simple oral quiz conducted by Mr. Sorongon after the lecture. Even the deaf students eagerly participated with their teachers as their sign language interpreters.

Mr. Sorongon also showed the video of the 1Pangako campaign, an advocacy project of ASP to end the negative use of the work “autistic” and to support the realization of the rights of persons with disabilities. He also took the opportunity to share ASP’s “Educating Children with Disabilities of their Rights Using the Digital Talking Books” project and showed a sample of the digital talking books to the audience.

Special Education has been implemented in the country for more than a century. Yet according to the Department of Education, ninety-eight percent of school-age children with disabilities are not in school. Mr. Sorongon posed the question: Have there been concrete changes to realize the rights of Filipinos with disabilities? Thanks to institutions like the Padre Gomez Elementary School who answer the need for education, the Philippines is rising to meet our sector's aspirations.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4pwas,chapters,education,seminar,uncrpd

ASP Supports Rally of the Deaf

Article 30 Section 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) states “Persons with Disabilities shall be entitled, on an equal basis with others, to recognition and support of their specific cultural and linguistic identity, including sign language and deaf culture”

During the walk in Deaf Rally

As a member of the Philippine Coalition on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, ASP supports the advocacy of the Deaf for the passage of House Bill No. 6079 (*An Act Declaring Filipino Sign Language as the National Sign Language of the Filipino Deaf and the Official Language of Government in All Transactions Involving the Deaf, and Mandating Its Use in Schools, Broadcast Media, and Workplaces*) filed by Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Party-List Representative Antonio Tinio.

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon and Abner Manlapaz of Life Haven joined the rally last November 4 participated by more than 200 deaf persons and supporters coming from as far as La Trinidad to push for the immediate passage of the said bill.

The group assembled at PhilCOA Jollibbee vicinity then walked towards the office of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in Commonwealth Avenue to meet with the representative of the commission. Dr. Renan Basas, the Focal Person for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) and Ms. Karen Dumpit assured the group of the support of the commission.

After the meeting at the CHR, the group marched to the House of Representatives to express their sentiments and give support to their representatives who will join the Technical Working Group (TWG) to further study the bill and push for its enactment at the lower house.

The rally was spearheaded by the Philippine Federation of the Deaf (PFD) with the support of the Philippine Deaf Resource Center, PWD organization and other groups that promotes human rights.

ASP supports and promotes the rights and welfare of all people with disabilities.

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Posted in: leaders,special

ASP holds seminars in Cavite

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) expands its network of partners as it successfully conducted seminars in the City of Dasmariñas and the Municipality of Alfonso, both situated in the province of Cavite. The seminar series were conducted as part of ASP’s ongoing project, titled “Educating Children with Disabilities of their Rights Using the Digital Talking Books,” funded by AusAID.

Janette Peña leads seminar

The first seminar was held on 7 November 2012 at the DASCA Building in Dasmariñas, with ASP Dasmariñas Chapter and the Center for Special Needs as host, while the second seminar was held on 14 November 2012 at the Municipal Hall in Alfonso, hosted by the newly-incepted ASP Alfonso Chapter with the support of the Municipality of Alfonso, Cavite.

In both seminars, Executive Director Ranil Sorongon discussed the UN Conventions on the Rights of the Child (UN CRC) to both the teachers and the parents of children with disabilities, while Project Officer, Cathy Genovia demonstrated how to navigate DAISY Digital Talking Books, as well as how to use AMIS, the reader for said talking books.

In addition to said topics, Mr. Sorongon discussed to the parents and answered their issues of the rights of their children in the local setting, particularly the provisions of Republic Act 9442, among which is the entitlement of special discounts on commodities such as hospitality establishments, amusement facilities, food items, medications, transportation, and medical services.

Through this project, ASP is continually expanding its network of partners in educating persons with autism and other disabilities on their rights and responsibilities. For information on how to become a partner, please contact the ASP National Office at 7-903-5496 or e-mail at autismphils@gmail.com.

This article was contributed by Gerard Joseph Atienza, Secretary, ASP Bacoor Chapter.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4pwas,government,regional,seminar,uncrpd

Helping a CWA Build Big Dreams

By Marietta Tan, President, ASP Lagro Chapter

Wendell Principe is a 12-year old boy diagnosed with autism when he was 4; but due to poverty and domestic problems, he was never brought to a special school. His father is a stroke survivor and his mother is fighting stage 4 breast cancer. Vanessa Nicolas of TV5's Good Morning Club called me last 22 October 2012 and asked if i could help them find a free SPED school near the area. I immediately called a SPED teacher, Irene Pranada Lee and Principal Dr. Lilia Garcia to facilitate acceptance of Wendell to the Lagro Elementary School. On October 27, 2012, Wendell together with his mother, received a certificate accepting him to study at LES! This momentous event was witnessed by Ms. Cheryl Cosim and televised by TV5 on its Good Morning Club Show! A small deed on my part, but a big dream for a special child.

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Posted in: special

ASP Ormoc Dist. II Chapter - Effective Behaviour Management Strategies at Home

Effective Behaviour Management Strategies at Home poster

Autism Society Philippines Ormoc Dist. II Chapter - "Effective Behavior Management Strategies at Home" (A Parental Workshop in Handling Special Needs in the Home Setting) by Mr. Mark Saballa, Behavior Management Consultant and Director of The Center for Behavioral Support. This will be on December 1, 2012, Saturday from 8:30am - 4:00pm at Badminton City Function Hall. For more information, please contact: Ivy Llanas at 0917-725-1078 or Pia Chu at 0919-455-7644.

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Posted in: 4parents,regional,seminar

Debutante gets the party of her dreams

By DANG Uy-KOE, ASP Chair Emeritus

Seeing Thara entering the ballroom, composed and elegant in her princess-like gown and hairdo, one would not imagine that this young lady used to throw tantrums in public places inappropriate for her age just a few years back.

Thara and angel talker JR Tan

Thara’s father Dad Francis flew in from Kuwait to fulfill his promise of a special debut party, her mom Geeta prepared all year long for this event, her two brothers Kash and Vinnie, her cousins, uncles, aunts, grandparents were all present, beaming with pride at their singing princess. The Santiago-Sakhrani clan is proof that with love and support from the family, persons with autism can lead happy and productive lives.

Angel Talker JR Tan was invited to the party, together with a number of autism self-advocates like him. Here is his account of Thara’s dream debut.

****

When I hear about debut, what comes to my mind are roses, dancing, formal outfits, a big feast, glamorous decorations and of course, the most cherished milestone of the celebrant’s 18th year in life. At 18, a woman can probably drive, vote, and experience other rights just as other adult citizens – making major decisions in life.

I have known Thara Marie Sakhrani Santiago since my teenage years. On several events sponsored by Autism Society Philippines, such as the yearly Angels Walk and World Autism Awareness Day, Thara would be invited to perform along with fellow members of ASP Dream Girls.

Before talking to her talent manager, Teacher Naomi Viado, I had no idea about her daily regimen in improving her vocal skills. She told me that it takes a lot of consistency, persistence and discipline to reach Thara’s goals.

One of Thara’s challenges is dealing with tantrums and/or excessive complaining if things do not go as expected. Thara also learns to cooperate and follow instructions from her singing coaches along with fellow Dream Girl, Nica Escasiñas.

I appreciate Thara’s beautiful and powerful voice in her performances. Watching them perform is like being transported into the front row of a pop concert. I cheer for them and wish that their beautiful voices would reach as high as the heavens.

Her mom, Mrs. Geeta Sakhrani Santiago, said Thara does not take cold drinks and avoids soda and junk food. She practices with singing coaches twice a week and is rewarded with her favorite Fashion Magazines for her hard work and performances.

On August, I was privileged to be invited by Thara’s mom to the 18 Roses Dance during Thara’s debut party this November. After accepting the offer, I began to recall what I did during our 2007 Junior-Senior Prom in high school, which involved the cotillion. We also learned the dance etiquette from our physical education teacher. The training took about a month of rigorous practice after classes. I haven’t danced for long time since then, so I began to rehearse the dance steps via YouTube videos and practicing with my mom.

Three months later, my eyes opened wide after arriving at Thara’s party venue at the Century Park Hotel. The ballroom was decorated with balloons and flowers with Thara’s favorite color – pink. Guests were treated to a sumptuous buffet. The Luntayao Siblings, grand finalists of the Pilipinas Got Talent Season One, also serenaded us.

Thara wore a pink gown and a tiara. She looked like a beautiful princess when she entered the ballroom, escorted by co-self-advocate, Ian Lopez from ASP Laguna Chapter. Ian was my co-panelist during the 11th National Autism Conference on “Advocacy: A Family Business.” Ian is a huge fan of Thara and updates photos of her yearly during the Angels Walk.

When we, the dancers in the 18 Roses were called to queue up, I was a little excited to dance with Thara. Before we arrived there, my mom hoped that I would not step on Thara’s toes while dancing. Well, I did not. After the dance, came the 18 Candles wherein 18 female guests gave wishes for the debutante while lighting a candle.

Thara’s family made an audio-video presentation tribute to her, where autism was explained and its awareness promoted. They said they would continue to support her in every aspect of her life and care for her to the best of their ability, despite her autism. For her cousins, aunts, uncles, and godparents, they would still continue to understand her behaviors and accept her for who she is.

This is my first time to witness a party where understanding a disability was promoted. Not everyone understands that people with autism also belong to the society and should be treated equally. I am so happy to learn that her family and relatives are very supportive of her dreams, not only in the present, but for the years to come.

“Thara is an Angel sent to us by God”, said her parents. Many also shared words of encouragement to Thara. But the most striking quote for me is from Nica, her co-Dream Girl, “Thara, hindi ka na baby, lady ka na. Bawasan na ang tantrums.” There was nary a trace of tantrums that night.

People with autism, like Thara and me, can transcend the so called “limitations”. We just need to focus our energies on our God-given abilities and not let anyone look down on us. We should not shelter children with autism or put them in a place that will isolate them from society. We all need hope, understanding and assurance to develop skills needed in life to the best of our potentials.

I would like to end with my own wish for Thara, “May you continue to grow and hone your singing skills to inspire others.”

Autism Society Philippines monthly seminar on November 24 features Teacher My Sorongon on “Home Management Program.” ASP Baguio partners with UP College of Allied Medical Professions for PAMASKONG THERA-FREE: LIBRENG THERAPY in Baguio City. Free assessments and individualized home programs for registrants on December 21 and 22, 2012. For details, follow Autism Society Philippines on Facebook and Twitter.

This article appeared in print and online by Manila Bulletin on 19 November 2012.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4pwas,angels-talk

ASP Baguio City Chapter 2012 Pamaskong Thera-Free

ASP THERA-FREE 2012

Autism Society Philippines Baguio Chapter in cooperation with University of the Philippines Manila College of Allied Medical Professions, in celebration of its 50th Jubilee brings 2012 PAMASKONG THERA-FREE: LIBRENG THERAPY para sa Pilipino to the City of Baguio.

Free Assessments and Individualized Home Programs will be on December 21 and 22, 2012 from 9:00AM to 5:00PM at Home Sweet Home, Gov. Pack Rd. Baguio City (across Baguio Lions Clubhouse). Pre-register your child at JET Bookstore, Units 2 and 3, 2M Porta Vaga Mall, Session Rd, Baguio City.

* See poster for more details

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Posted in: 4parents,4pwas,leaders,regional,special

ASP Welcomes Japanese Visitors

ASP Executive Director Ranil Sorongon and staff hosted Japanese guests, headed by Mr. Hiroshi Kawamura, the immediate past president of the International Digital Accessible Information System (DAISY) Consortium last November 8 and 9, 2012. Mr. Kawamura’s group included Ms. Nakatami, Ms. Hamada, Mr. Chiba and Mr. Nishimoto of the Assistive Technology Development Organization (ATDO) of Japan and Mr. Misukami of Shinano Kenshi Co., the producer of PlexTalk, an assistive device for persons with disabilities.

Meeting of Japanese visitors with Mr. Ranilo Sorongon

The Japanese group was here in the country for a series of meetings with stakeholders from the academe, the government and from the sector of persons with disabilities for the conceptualization of a project which will be funded from the Overseas Development Assistance of Japan.

The group visited ASP to give an orientation of the project, to know more about the organization and the current project of ASP, the “Teaching Children with Disabilities Their Rights Using the Digital Talking Books”. The project funded by the Australian Aid aims to educate 500 children with disabilities of their rights based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) using the digital talking books. The DAISY Consortium through Mr. Kawamura donated a computer set with a Dolphin Publisher program being used by ASP to publish the digital talking books (DTBs) which is being use to produce the Rights of the Child DTBs in the current project of ASP.

The visitors were so impressed upon seeing, hearing the DTBs on the rights of the child and knowing that the illustrator of the learning stories is a person with autism. “The content and drawings of the learning stories are 'culture-free', it can be used by children with disabilities as well as those without disabilities to know their rights” commented Mr. Hisao Chiba, a former staff of Nippon Foundation and a current researcher of ATDO. Ms. Mayu Hamada, the technical person of ATDO asked a copy of the DTBs from Director Sorongon for her to showcase the DTBs to stakeholders in Japan.

Ms. Hamada is also helping ASP as a volunteer technical consultant in the DTBs production, she gave valuable inputs in every aspect of DTBs. She will be coming back on January 2013 to give a seminar-workshop to ASP on the use of TOBI, a new open source program to produce DAISY DTBs.

ASP is grateful for the valuable support of the DAISY Consortium and ATDO for providing an alternative way of educating children with disabilities through the digital talking books.

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Posted in: international,special

Carmona celebrates Children’s Month with ASP

The Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) of the Municipality of Carmona, Cavite, together with Autism Society Philippines, celebrated Universal Children’s Month on 19 October 2012 at the Penthouse of the Carmona Municipal Hall.

Universal Children’s Month is observed every October, pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 267 in observance of United Nations declarations.

Ranilo Sorongon receives a certificate

Parents of children with special needs participated in this celebration, whose highlights included the orientation to the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the forging of the partnership between ASP and the Municipal Government of Carmona for ASP’s project, titled “Educating Children with Disabilities of Their Rights Using Digital Talking Books.”

In line with this project, funded by by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), a memorandum of agreement formally declaring the two groups’ partnership was made between the Municipality of Carmona, represented by Mayor Dahlia Loyola, and ASP, represented by Executive Director Ranil Sorongon.

It was during this celebration that Mr. Sorongon discussed with the parents who attended the activity on their children’s rights, the privileges that are offered to them and their children with disabilities, as mandated by law. Also, the parents made a promise together to help stop the inappropriate use of the word “autistic” as a slur, in line with ASP’s recent campaign named Isang Pangako (1Pangako).

The Municipality of Carmona has been among ASP’s most valued partners in awareness and advocacy for persons with autism and other special needs. Among their most recent activities included the 5th Regional Conference on Autism, held in partnership with ASP Cavite Chapters on 8-9 September 2012 at the San Lazaro Leisure and Business Park, where Mayor Dahlia discussed to the conference delegates the achievements of the PDAO in supporting their constituents with disabilities, and introducing a paradigm of community-based rehabilitation for other local government units to emulate.

ASP looks forward to introduce this and other endeavors to other local government units, which in the long run will help educate children with disabilities of their rights and become fully functional members of our society.

This article is a contribution from Gerard Joseph Atienza, Secretary, ASP Bacoor Chapter.

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Posted in: government,special

One Miraculous FSG

By Maria Joyla C. Nerona-Ofrecia, President ASP City of San Fernando (P) Chapter

ASP CSFP Chapter has been dormant for a couple of months but is now wide-awake and ready to serve again! As a kick-off, we conducted a Family Support Group Meeting last 20 October 2012, Saturday, 1pm at the Inocencio Magtoto Memorial Foundation (IMMFI) office in Dolores, City of San Fernando Pampanga.

Janette Peña and Joyla Ofrecia leading Family Support Group

The activity was attended by 7 mothers and 3 fathers of children with autism. A representative from IMMFI and 4 representatives from other PWD organizations from around North Luzon joined us.

ASP National President Ms. Jan Peña talked about the organization and its advocacy. She also shared valuable and inspiring insights to the group. She stressed that our children with autism are a blessing from God. I talked about the grieving process that parents of children with special needs go through and she also gave some words to remember in the care and management of CWA.

Here are some of the comments from the parent attendees:

“Attending family support group was one of the best decisions I have made since I joined ASP. I never thought that it is going to be fun, interactive and informative. But the best part of it, I was able to bring my husband with me, whom I believe benefited well on the topics tackled during the discussion. What was so liberating was when he started hearing other dads’ stories regarding their children. How they openly shared the ups and downs in their own journey. I believe it helped him to be more open about his feelings towards our son’s condition. Having my husband understands our son without fear, without holding back, with pure hope and positivism I think is the best benefit I got in attending FSG. Thanks ASP for continuing this advocacy. Thank you Mommy Joy for your untiring passion in keeping the chapter alive. We appreciate you.”

“I think it was divine intervention that I was able to attend FSG yesterday. It made me realize so many things. Dahil sobra akong nahihirapan sa behaviour ng anak ko, I thought of it as a problem not a challenge, a curse and not a blessing. Until Mommy Jan made me realize I was wrong. You and Mommy Jan verbalized everything of what I was thinking, I was consumed with negative thoughts and I overlooked all the blessings that came. The self-injurious behaviour is too much for me and I even thought of ending my suffering. This is such a difficult phase in my life and it’s amazing how God works with people to help me get through this. It’s such a relief to meet people like you and Mommy Jan, para kayong angels in disguise. Yesterday’s FSG is what I badly needed. Thank God we have leaders like you.”

It was a miraculous day indeed and so amazing how God works on us. There were so much limitations yet He made a way for this family support group meeting to push through because He knew that there are parents who need it that day. Every word that was uttered during the discussion was anointed by the Holy Spirit, as it needs to provide realization, inspiration and strength. Even the comments and reactions of the participants found its way to reach the knowledge of the organizer, for it will give us more reason to continue what we love to do, to serve.

Again, we would like to thank Ms. Tonette Magtoto of IMMFI for lending us their place and for continuously supporting our chapter; and to Ms. Jan Peña for visiting us and sharing her wisdom.

To our Almighty God, all praises to you, we are grateful to you for making everything possible.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pwas,leaders

ASP Family Support Group for November 2012

Share your HOPES and DREAMS with us. We will listen

Ms. Cecile Sicam

Cecilia S. Sicam is a mother, teacher, autism advocate and founding member of Autism Society Philippines. She has served ASP in various capacities since 1989, including board secretary, Executive Director, President from 2002 - 2004 and is currently the Vice President of ASP National. She has been a special education teacher for more than 20 years and is currently the Directress of Bridges Foundation, Inc., a school for children with special needs. Her 31 y/o son Likas, with autism, is a self-supporting full-time regular employee.

Sign up now and learn practical tips on parenting and how to advocate for your child with autism.

FREE REGISTRATION

Date: November 17, 2012, Saturday

Time: 1:00-5:00PM

Venue: ASP Office, Room 307,

ML Bldg., # 47 Kamias Road, Quezon City

Hurry! Call now at 7-903-5496

Only 15 seats available!

Click here for online registration

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Posted in: 4parents,4siblings,fsg

Mga Lider ng ASP Hagonoy Nanumpa

By Anawi Tolentino MD, President, ASP Hagonoy Chapter

Lubos ang pasasalamat ng mga magulang na bumubuo sa Special Parent for Special Child (SPSC) sa bayan ng Hagonoy, sa lalawigan ng Bulacan nang paunlakan ng pangulo ng Autism Society Philippines na si Gng. Janette Peña ang paanyaya upang maitalaga ang pamunuan at mga kasapi ng ASP Hagonoy Chapter.

FSG participants with Ms. Anawi Tolentino (2nd to the right) and Ms. Janette Peña (1st to the right)

Sabado ng umaga nang dumayo si Mam Jan, kasama ang kanyang anak na si Muneer, sa gusali ng Sangguniang Bayan ng Hagonoy kung saan idinaos ang maikling programa. Bilang pagbati sa kanilang pagdating ay naghandog ng maindak na sayaw ang mga kabataan ng SPSC at ito'y sinundan ng maikling pananalita ni Gng. Peña tungkol sa mga hamon na pinagdaraanan ng mga pamilya ng mga batang may autismo at ng mga batang may kapansanan.

Sa panghuli ay ginanap ang panunumpa ng mga magulang na inihalal na maging pamunuan ng ASP Hagonoy Chapter. Naway ang aming chapter at ang mga bagong pinuno nito ay magpatuloy sa pangunguna sa pagkalinga at pagtulong sa mga taong may autismo sa aming pamayanan.

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Posted in: 4parents,4public,fsg,leaders

Reading Social Rules

By: Dang Uy-Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus

A lack of intuitive social ability is a hallmark of autism. People with autism often have to work at learning social rules, and this can often be confusing for those in the autism spectrum.

Teambuilding

In their book “Autism and the Transition to Adulthood”, authors Paul Wehman, Marcia Datlow Smith and Carol Schall listed social skills that can be helpful in the community and the workplace. Families are advised to work on these skills with their case teams.

• Using Social Amenities. “Many of our students who barely acknowledge other people have to be reminded several times to call the name or tap the person they are communicating with, before asking for what they want. Sometimes adults have to hang on to the item they’re asking for in order to elicit a ‘thank you,”’ said Cecile Sicam, school director of Bridges Foundation, Inc. It might be necessary to teach phrases such as “please, thank you, you’re welcome” at school, at work, in stores, banks and restaurants.

• Using Appropriate Greetings. Teacher Cecile is mother to Likas, 30, who has been working for Tube Ice for many years now. Likas often exhibits an aloof manner when greeting relatives and refuses to kiss them even when prompted to do so. He says “hi” or just nods his head in acknowledgement.

On the other hand, Teacher Archie David of Independent Living Learning Center tells of a student who had a habit of bidding goodbye to everyone by name. Being polite, people were often compelled to wait for their names to be called before they themselves leave. The problem was addressed when he learned it was alright to just say “goodbye, everyone.”

• Terminating Conversations. A common complaint of peers, supervisors, and co-workers, is that the worker with autism walks away while being spoken to. But the more common complaint is when they do not stop talking about their favorite topics. Teacher Cecile said her son does not “read” people’s responses and does not readily stop when others give nonchalant acknowledgement.

Teacher Archie said that through role-plays, a student was taught that glancing at watches, lack of eye contact and no follow-up questions are hints for him to terminate a conversation.

• Sharing Workspace. During a practice interview, a PWA blurted out he expects his employer “to give me my own office space.” But actual workplaces are sometimes shared spaces and even rearranged from time to time. This can be especially upsetting to a worker with autism who relies on consistency of physical spaces. On the other hand, other PWAs have the tendency to invade other people’s personal and work space.

• Accepting Correction or Suggestions. Most people do not like to receive correction or criticism. People with autism, however, often react more strongly. Teacher Cecile shared that Likas has the tendency to overreact and say “sorry, never again” repeatedly as if he caused a catastrophe. “However,” she said, “several of our students would shout, throw things on the floor or hit when corrected. There maybe a need to focus on teaching these students exactly what to say and do when given correction or suggestions.

• Responding Assertively. People with autism can sometimes be easily taken advantage of. One young woman with Asperger Syndrome was arriving at work each morning quite distraught. The problem was that a strange man had been sitting next to her on the bus and putting his arm around her, and she did not know how to respond. Social skills training was needed to teach her to say “Leave me alone.” (from the book “Autism and the Transition to Adulthood”).

• Waiting in Line and Taking Turns. Teacher Cecile, who is also the current national vice president of Autism Society Philippines, recounted that many of their students will run off the line or jump around after a few seconds (even while waiting seated). “We have to give them fidget toys or weights on their laps to extend their waiting time.”

• Asking for Help and Revealing a Problem. Authors Wehman, Smith and Schall wrote that “one of the most important social skills at work is to ask for help when it is needed. Individuals with autism faced with difficulty at work might become upset, stop working, and even leave. Students with autism might also be reluctant to reveal that they have a problem for which they may need help. In either the work or school setting, social skills training can be used to teach individuals how to ask for help and how to talk to others about a problem.”

This article appeared in print and online by Manila Bulletin on 04 November 2012.

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Posted in: angels-talk

November 24 (Saturday) Seminar-Workshop

Home Management Program

9:00am - 4:00pm

This seminar-workshop aims to provide parents, caregivers and professionals with different approaches on how to teach persons with autism (PWA) adaptability to daily family activities, routines, chores, and other functional activities in the home setting. Acquired valuable skills can support the PWAs toward self-reliance. Home Management Program is created to meet the specific needs of the PWA at home and eventually in the community.

Ms. Rosalyn Sorongon

Ms. Rosalyn Marie Gison Sorongon earned her BS Psychology degree from the Assumption College, Makati City and Master’s Degree in Education Major in Special Education from the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City. Teacher My has been teaching persons with autism (PWAs) and helping their families cope with this condition for more than a decade. She regularly conducts orientations and trainings to parents and professionals on autism. A member of the Education Committee of Autism Society Philippines (ASP), she has been actively involved in ASP’s projects on “Early Detection and Early Intervention on Autism” as a trainer and, as story writer for the “Educating Children with Disabilities of their Rights Using Digital Talking Books”. T. My also finds fulfillment in her role as a regular facilitator of SibsCamp, a support group for siblings of PWAs, as a result of her post graduate research entitled “The Concerns of Adult Siblings of Persons with Autism”.

Venue: Bridges Foundation, Inc. 22 Scout Limbaga Street Brgy. Laging Handa, Quezon City
REGISTRATION FEE is inclusive of certificate, handouts and snacks

Seminar-Workshop Fee

Member - P1, 000.00
Non-Member - P1, 200.00

Pre-reg. *until November 21
No on site registrants will be accepted

Click here for online registration

Pre-registered participants may pay to Autism Society Philippines, Metro Bank, Kamias Branch Account # 047-3-04751874-2. Please fax the deposit slip with the name/s of participant/s to ASP office and bring it on the day of the seminar. On-site registrants will not be accepted. To maximize learning and participation, this seminar-workshop will only accept 22 parents of children with autism. No refund will be given to participants who did not show up on the date of the seminar. For more details, please call ASP at 7-903-5496.

The ASP Seminar Series serves as a platform to educate Filipino parents and professionals on the various interventions, modalities and theories surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder. Their application and implementation are left at your discretion. The views and personal experiences of the speakers are of their own and don’t necessarily reflect that of the views of the organization.

Sharing HOPES... Building DREAMS

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Posted in: 4parents,seminar

AAAP holds its first symposium

The Association for Adults with Autism, Philippines (AAAP) held a symposium entitled “Diagnostic, Treatment and Policy Issues Affecting Adults with Autism” last 13 October 2012 at Justitia Room, Ateneo Law School, Makati City. The event was the first initiative of AAAP to formally educate stakeholders on the issues and concerns affecting adults with autism and their families.

Dang Koe announces that Lirio Covey will be a speaker

The event brought experts like Atty. Nina Patricia Sison-Arroyo from the Legal Services of Ateneo de Manila University who shared on the “Philippine Laws on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Dr. Christine Conducto, a fellow of the Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics on “Medical and Pharmacological Interventions for Persons with Autism, Dr. Lourdes Carandang, the President of the Metropolitan Psychological Corporation on “A Comprehensive Framework for Understanding Autism and the Families with Autism”, Dr. Erlinda Camara from the University of the Philippines, Diliman on “Enhancing Creativity Among Persons with Autism”, Mr. Ronald Sanchez, the Director of the Camphill Community of Santa Cruz, California, USA on “Residential Community Living for Adults with Autism: The Life Sharing Model” and Dr. Lirio Covey, the President of AAP on “Autism Spectrum Disorder: Criteria and Causes”.

The symposium provided participants with new knowledge and information on autism and the challenges of adults with autism. It also gave an opportunity to parents of persons with autism to understand the concept of a residential community living model of Camphill community in the US -- a model of an inclusive community living that can be adapted to suit the challenges of Filipinos with autism.

An exhibit of the works of Vico Cham, a person with autism was shown and Macky Palomares, a student with autism and the son of the ASP Diliman QC chapter president, Josephine Palomares, played the organ as a intermission number to entertain the participants of the symposium.

ASP commends initiatives that promote the rights and welfare of persons with autism and their family. ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe, Treasurer Evelyn Go, Auditor Grace Adviento, Executive Director Ranil Sorongon and staff Cricel Elises were in attendance in support of this milestone event.

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Posted in: seminar,special