19/01/2026
𝗔𝗦𝗗 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗖𝗜𝗢𝗨𝗦𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗘𝗦, 𝗨𝗣𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗦 𝗚𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗡 𝗜𝗡 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗠𝗘𝗘𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚
With the theme, “Mula Kamalayan Tungo sa Gawa: Pag-unlad ng Autism-Ok Philippines,” (“From Awareness to Action: Developing An Autism-Ok Philippines”), singing, dancing, arts and exhibit contests were scheduled for persons with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in celebration of the 30th National Autism Consciousness Week on the third week of January.
This was announced during a consultative meeting of Persons With Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) head Dr. Samuel Aquino with not less than 80 parents or guardians and organization representatives, Jan 12, Monday afternoon at the Persons With Disability (PWD) cooperative and livelihood center, Burnham Park.
The parents/guardians/representatives were informed of the nearing completion of the PWD coffee shop and in coordination with other offices, private and non-government organizations, the provision of speech/ physical/occupational therapy and other support services to children with ASD, within the area.
Autism is generally defined as a complex neurological and developmental condition influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors, with diagnosis which relies on observation and behavioral assessment, and treatment to help individuals develop life skills, foster belonging, improve well-being, build acceptance and reduce isolation.
Dr. Aquino rallied the parents/guardians/representatives to register their children/ward with ASD, with the PDAO and other offices for identification, protection and legal basis to avail of government and other organization and institutions’ support and benefits.
Among others, the local government unit of Baguio extends assistance to ASDs/PWDs, through the Congressman’s Office, City Mayor’s Office, PDAO, Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP), Department and City Social Welfare and Development Office (DSWD, CSWDO), and the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC). Other institutions grant education, assessment, therapy, livelihood and transition and other interventions for ASDs, Aquino said.
He recognized the parents/guardians’ effort in children with ASDs’ exposure, participation and preparation for living and engagement in the community.
Aquino also informed the parents/guardians of Republic Act (RA)11650 of the Inclusive Education Act of 2022, a “Philippine law mandating inclusive education for learners with disabilities, ensuring free and appropriate public education, establishing inclusive Learning Resource Centers (ILRCs) in school districts and promoting access to support services for independent living. It aims to remove barriers and uphold the rights of disabled learners by fostering a whole-of-community approach and adhering to international standards.” The city’s Special Education (SPED) school is now undergoing transition, Aquino added.
Upcoming activities for PWDs are the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Thailand, Jan. 20 to 26; and the quarterly meeting for the local council of children with intellectual and learning disabilities.
Inquiries for all PWD concerns could be done at tel no. 442-7228, or at the PDAO, ground floor, left wing of city hall.
