Autism Society Philippines and SM Cares hold talks on autism
IN observance of the 27th National Autism Consciousness Week, Autism Society Philippines (ASP) and SM Cares, the City Government of Mandaluyong, and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) recently hosted a panel discussion on autism inclusion at SM Megamall Cinema 4 on January 20.
The event facilitated meaningful conversations on various issues concerning people on the autism spectrum and their loved ones, in line with the theme “Building a Nation Powered by Transformative Autism-inclusive Innovation.”
Guests and panelists include P3PWD Rep. Rowena Guanzon; ASP Chairman Emerita Dang Koe; ASP National President Mona Magno-Veluz; Mandaluyong City former councilor Charisse Abalos-Vargas; QC Kabahagi Center Executive Director Karen Sagun; Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation Executive Director Hazel Borja; and SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President Richard Caluyo; and SM Supermalls Senior Vice President Engr. Bien Mateo.
Also present were celebrities Troy Montero, Aubrey Miles and Candy Pangilinan, who are autism awareness advocates and proud parents of children with autism.
Magno-Veluz moderated the first session, which focused on the importance of innovation in addressing issues concerning people on the spectrum, with AbalosVargas, Sagun, Borja and Caluyo as panelists. This was followed by the first Q&A session of the day.
During the second session which was moderated by Koe, Montero, Miles and Pangilinan shared stories and experiences raising children on the spectrum and gave useful tips for other parents living with family members with autism.
The panelists also expressed their support for other parents who are taking care of children who have autism and assuring them that support is available if and when they need it.
In his special message, Mateo thanked the ASP for always believing in the advocacies of SM Cares.
He also reiterated that SM is a mall for all, living with a disability or not. “We want to send the message to all our mall-goers, including people with autism, that you’re always welcome here at SM.”