Every third week of January, the Autism Consciousness Week was observed as mandated by Proclamation No. 711 signed by former President Fidel V. Ramos in January 4, 1996 citing the objective "of the Philippine Government to develop an awareness of the problems of autistic persons and promote a supportive environment among communities to enable autistic persons to live with dignity and enable them to function independently and contribute productively to society."
According to the Autism Society of the Philippines, this year's theme "Building a Nation Powered by Transformative Autism-Inclusive Innovation" is aligned with the "global disability community’s aspirations expressed during the International Day of Persons with Disability that intends tonurture partnerships between the government and the private sector to help Filipinos on the autism spectrum and those who care for them, rise above the challenges of the condition and be active nation-builders; inspire innovation among like-minded national, local and community thought leaders who create policy and provide services for Filipinos on the autism spectrum and those who care for them; and grow a community of allies within the country, the region and the rest of the world, supportive of programs towards genuine disability inclusion — consistent with the ASEAN Enabling Masterplan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals #10."
Having a child with a mental or psychosocial disability is indeed challenging and extraordinary. As a parent, I always think about how my son will be accepted by the community in general, and this includes being able to avail basic education. When access to basic services for children with autism or ADHD such as therapy and specialized education facilities is not available due to financial constraints, we are left with the option to look for practical options, this means that if possible, we can try fitting in our children in public schools which offer regular education set-up.
While the Department of Education has institutionalized special education in some of its schools by hiring SPED teachers and putting up SPED Centers, there is still a lot to be done in terms of promoting inclusivity for such learners with disabilities. There is still a notable need for more teachers who are specialized in handling such LWDs and there is also a need to strengthen the advocacy to promote inclusivity for them at all times within the school setting. It is also not sufficient that persons with disabilities are given discounts in basic needs and other services, but the recognition that there has to be more programs that will ensure that all their needs are met and given utmost priority in the community.
Advocates and families of people with autism not only wish for autism acceptance and autism awareness, but this year, we want to elevate it into autism appreciation recognizing that people on the spectrum are talented, capable, and functional members of our nation.