Autism Sensitivity Training in Pagudpud

Sensitivity to the needs of customers with special needs is slowly becoming a must-have for businesses to flourish. One incident which is perceived to be discrimination to disabled people has the potential to affect a company's bottom-line.

So it came as a pleasant surprise that the Kingfisher Resort sought the help of the Autism Society Philippines to conduct an autism-sensitivity training for their staff on 13 May 2015. Kingfisher is a boutique resort that caters to a niche clientele of kitesurfers, windsurfer and beach lovers from all over the world. Their request was a surprise because resort was located in Caparispisan, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte -- near the country's northernmost tip. Many establishments in metropolitan areas have yet to equal this commitment to disability training!

Mona Veluz conducts Autism Sensitivity Training seminar to Team Kingfisher and staff

ASP National President Mona Magno-Veluz conducted the seminar, with the support of ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe and ASP Trustee Grace Adviento. The resort restaurant, housekeeping and water sports staff sat though descriptions of typical signs of autism in small children. Using their personal experiences and perceptions, the groups delved into the misconceptions and myths about autism; and later, how they can help and serve customers with autism. The team gamely asked questions at the end of the session.

Thank you to Team Kingfisher Mon Manotok, Zarah Chua and Rico Calma for your hospitality! We hope that the take-aways from the sessions enlighten and encourage compassion in your staff, especially for customers who have special needs.