THE DEPARTMENT of Education collaborated with NORFIL Foundation, Inc. and the Autism Society Philippines in holding the 2021 National Autism Conference in line with the celebration of the 25th National Autism Consciousness Week.

The virtual event featured plenary topics on the Situation of Children with Disabilities in Times of Covid19, Right of Persons with Autism, The Truth About Autism, and Resources for Persons with Autism.

Ranilo Sorongon of NORFIL discussed the rights of every child, which include the right to survive, to participate and to be protected.

“They must be included in whatever decisions affecting them and they must be included in the society. Hindi lamang sila tagapalakpak, hindi lamang sila taga sayaw but kasama rin sila sa pagbibigay ng kanilang mga opinyon, kasama sila sa pagpaplano,” Sorongon said.

The DepEd’s Special Education includes learners with disabilities, including those with autism.

The department launched various initiatives to ensure SPED will remain inclusive even in the new normal settings of basic education.

“By working together with our stakeholders, listening to their experiences and finding ways within the system to create opportunities for meaningful collaboration, we can bring better services to our learners with Autism,” Education Secretary Leonor Briones said.

“The support for all children with disabilities, regardless of the nature and severity of their disability, and the need for related services are being recognized and catered by DepEd; and ensures that these learners receive appropriate education whether in the regular face to face classroom setting or a specialized set-up during this time of pandemic,” Briones added.

Anchored on the theme “Pilipinong May Autismo: Kakaiba, Kasali, Konektado,” the conference focused on the societal awareness of the uniqueness of Filipinos on the spectrum, the inclusive development in human rights, education, employment, media, among others, and individual self-awareness, self-expression, and feeling of belonging to a compassionate society.

Meanwhile, Dr. Alexis Reyes, president of the International Developmental Pediatrics Association, discussed the situation of children with disabilities in the context of Covid19.

“I want them to be happy, I hope they will be happy wherever they might be in to appreciate their lives. The pandemic has taught us so many lessons on happiness. If you find something good in something so horrific then I think we still have hope,” Dr. Reyes said.

Breakout sessions were organized to further educate people on autism. The  topics include Early Intervention and Home Program, Sensory Issues and Hospital-friendly Environment, and Preparing Individuals with ASD for Employment and Autism Work.