Champions of Disability Inclusion

The world commemorates the United Nations Public Service Day on June 23, 2025. We celebrate the individuals whose dedication to the common good helps shape more inclusive and compassionate societies. Among them are public servants who bring not only professional expertise but also personal insight into the lives of persons on the autism spectrum. Whether they are parents or individuals on the autism spectrum themselves, their lived experiences drive meaningful change in the way the government serves the disability community. Today, we shine a light on five remarkable individuals whose service and advocacy are helping build a world where everyone belongs. Mike Almendrala, civil servant on the autism spectrum. Mike is an example of...

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Beyond Mama and Papa: It Takes a Village

By Mona Magno-Veluz The Autism Society Philippines was created to support Filipinos on the autism spectrum and the families who care for them. As a collective, we have had to learn over time, as raising children on the autism spectrum does not come with a manual. We read the books, scroll through parenting advice online, and carry the weight of responsibility -- especially as mommy and daddy. But when all eyes are on the parents, we risk missing the bigger picture. In the Philippines, a country deeply rooted in strong family ties and community spirit, the truth is that parents are rarely raising children alone. If you are caring for a child with disabilities or raising a non-traditional family, more so. A recent study by the Philippine...

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Posted in: 4parents,4public

ASP Autism Works: Opening Doors for Job Seekers on the Spectrum

Since 2016, the Autism Society Philippines has been helping Filipinos on the spectrum step into the world of work with confidence. Through the ASP Autism Works program, job seekers on the autism spectrum are paired with compassionate and inclusive employers in cities nationwide. So far, we have filled almost 300 positions in 11 provinces with talent on the autism spectrum. For Applicants. If you have been formally diagnosed with autism, are 18 years old or older, and have the right skills and behaviors to take that first step toward employment, we’d love to hear from you. Simply send an email to autismphils@gmail.com with your resume and a short introduction about yourself and your work aspirations. The application must come directly from...

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Posted in: 4pwas,aworks

What Voters on the Autism Spectrum Need

This article was initially published online by Rappler on 25 June 2025.As someone who has long advocated for the dignity of Filipinos on the autism spectrum, I viewed the recent national elections through a unique lens — not just as a voter, but as a parent, and as an ally of a community that is far too often overlooked. The participation of adults on the spectrum in the electoral process is a powerful statement. It disproves the tired stereotype that they live in their "own world." On the contrary, they care, they show up, and they want their voices heard. Our political landscape is a noisy one. Even before the official campaign period began, social media had become a battleground of slogans, memes, and commentary. Filipinos passionately...

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Posted in: 4pwas,elections

Family Support Group for the month of June 2025

Date: 14 June 2025, Saturday Time: 10:00am Register here to get the Zoom link: zoom registration The deadline for registration is 13 June 2025, Friday at 12nn.ASPs family support group sessions bring together parents, siblings, and other family members to talk about their journey in living with autism. Participants share their experiences and draw enlightenment and strength from others going through the same challenges. The Autism Society Philippines -- together with this month's host, ASP Marikina -- welcomes members and non-members, bound by a common experience that is autism. We aspire to educate, empower, and inspire to help build an Autism-OK Philippines. IMPORTANT: Send us an email via autismphils@gmail.com if you have not received...

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Posted in: 4parents,fsg