Duty-bearers from government agencies and rights-bearers from civil society organizations and advocate institutions are one with the nation in celebrating the Philippines' 29th National Autism Consciousness Week from 20 to 26 January 2025. President Fidel Ramos' Proclamation 711 of 1996 made this annual observance possible by inspiring genuine and organic acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation of persons on the autism spectrum in our society and our global community.
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| The The 29th National Autism Consciousness Week Poster |
The week's activities promote action by the public and private sectors towards enabling persons on the autism spectrum to live with dignity, enjoy equal rights and access, function independently, and contribute productively. Society should strive beyond “consciousness” or “awareness” and inspire genuine inclusion -- through acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation! Public and private institutions are encouraged to spearhead creative activities, events, and programs toward building opportunities for our neurodiverse population nationwide.
Read more about the NACW 2025 Game Plan for the week at: https://bit.ly/NACW2025-gameplan. This is a live document that continues to be revised as additional inputs are receives from advocates from all over the country.
This year’s theme: “Pag-angat ng mga Lider Para sa Pagsulong ng Lipunang Walang Naiiwan” is consistent with the global disability community’s aspirations expressed by the United Nations during the last International Day of Persons with Disability. The theme underscores the vital role of leadership in advancing an inclusive society that leaves no one behind. It aligns with the United Nations’ vision of empowering persons with disabilities to take on leadership roles, shaping policies and practices that promote equality and accessibility. By focusing on leadership, the theme highlights the need to break down barriers and create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to lead within their communities and in broader societal contexts.
This message particularly resonates with the autism community, where advocacy and self-determination are key to driving meaningful change. Empowering individuals on the spectrum as leaders amplify their voices and inspire others to recognize their potential and contributions. As the Autism Society Philippines continues to champion inclusion, this year’s theme serves as a call to action for everyone — from families and educators to employers and policymakers — to invest in nurturing the leadership of individuals with autism.
The theme intends to:
1. empower Individuals on the autism spectrum to lead change. Cultivate leadership skills and provide opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum to advocate for themselves and their communities, inspiring others and driving meaningful societal transformation.
2. promote inclusive practices across sectors. Encourage stakeholders—families, educators, employers, and policymakers—to adopt inclusive policies and practices that create equitable opportunities for persons with autism in all aspects of life, including education, employment, and civic engagement.
3. foster acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation. Strengthen societal understanding of autism and the unique contributions of individuals on the spectrum, breaking stereotypes and fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone has the chance to thrive.
Does your agency or institution want to join the national commemoration? Do you need tools, resources or assistance to bring your initiative to a wider audience? Send us an email at autismphils@gmail.com, if you feel we can help.
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