Advocates are pushing for a national action plan for people with autism that will ensure their true inclusion in society
MANILA, Philippines – For lawyers representing people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), legislation that empowers people on the spectrum, provides services, and promotes true inclusion is long overdue.
On Friday, April 10, representatives of the non-profit organization Autism Society Philippines (ASP) explained the struggles of people with ASD and how policies designed for them can help their future, just in time for Autism Awareness Month.
“In a society that is not necessarily built for us, sometimes we just try to control – it’s difficult,” said Pia Cabañero, a lawyer and part of the autism spectrum.
“But we cannot face problems…and (so) we try to find what can be done so that we can live a fruitful life,” he added.
Soaring or ASD includes a a variety of situations related to brain development, affecting one in 100 Filipinos.
ASP national spokesperson Mona Magno-Veluz, also known as content producer Mighty Magulang, is calling for a comprehensive plan.
“We need a government with a plan to address the needs of our growing and aging society, from the national government to the LGUs (local government units),” said Veluz, mother of a child with ASD.
The Senate recently approved in the third and final reading the proposals for the National Care, Support and Participation Law or Senate Bill 1822which aims to create a national action plan that will ensure early detection and diagnosis, quality health care, inclusive education, employment opportunities, and social support for those with ASD and their families.
The action plan also aims to build a broad network of doctors and educators skilled in ASD.
“It does not include (exhaustive) details…. Rather, it provides a framework so that we can have a long-term, comprehensive, responsive, and flexible plan to address the needs of our community…. We feel that it is clear enough to create a good IRR (implementation of rules and regulations), and it will also be a good basis (for) various agencies to develop their policies and procedures,” Veluz explained.
Cabañero said those with ASD like him can live a very meaningful life when society accepts them and truly accepts them and their abilities.
“We can do that (We can be) ourselves, flourish within ourselves, as long as we get opportunities such as employment, community building, and education to live a better life, considering (that) several decades ago we did not have the resources to understand that people on the autism spectrum can live fruitful lives when they enter adulthood,” he said.
Michelle Dee, beauty queen and ambassador for ASP, added that people on the spectrum can become independent through systems that trust their skills.
“Responsive autism policy strengthens families by reducing everyday barriers. It shifts the narrative from dependency to empowerment – equipping families with tools, opportunities, and respect,” said Dee, who has two brothers who are on the autism spectrum.
He added, “Inclusion means making sure they are seen, supported, and not left to do this alone.”
Annual walk for autism
ASP is expected to hold its long-running Angels Walk for Autism on April 26 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, where it expects to welcome thousands of attendees. The event will feature a community parade, talent show on the spectrum, and awards.
Simultaneous events will also be launched in 12 other cities across the country.
“Since its inception in 2000, the ASP Angels Walk for Autism has always been about hope,” said ASP chairman-emergent Dang Koe. “But hope must turn into not just awareness or acceptance but action.”
Cabañero emphasized the need for support systems like ASP for people with autism to feel accepted.
“When you have the support systems that we need to thrive, we can contribute effectively to society. Whether it’s through our work, our creative expression, or even just interacting and generating friendships and long-term relationships with other people,” he said.
Dee encouraged everyone who supports the cause to attend. “Change will never happen overnight, but it will always start with people choosing to show up.” – Rappler.com
