Caption and Information: Elijah La Torre & Cuaiyne Garcia
Layout: Eryx Euxine Llanes

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How are you, PaScians? Did you know that January 20 to 26, 2025 is known as the 29th National Autism Consciousness Week? Come and join us in the celebration. Empowerment!

In accordance with President Fidel Ramos’ Proclamation 711 of 1996 , the Philippines will commemorate its 29th National Autism Consciousness Week from January 20 to 26, 2025. This annual observance aims to inspire true acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation of individuals on the autism spectrum, both in our society and in the global community.

With the theme “𝗣𝗮𝗴-𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗴𝗮 𝗟𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮 𝘀𝗮 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝘀𝘂𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗶𝗽𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗡𝗮𝗶𝗶𝘄𝗮𝗻”, this week calls for action to ensure that persons on the autism spectrum can live with dignity, enjoy equal rights and access, function independently, and contribute productively. The theme emphasizes the importance of leadership in creating an inclusive society in which no one is left behind. It also supports the United Nations’ mission of encouraging people with disabilities to take on leadership roles, develop policy, and promote equality and accessibility.

As we commemorate this week, let us focus on:

Empowering individuals on the autism spectrum to lead change. Develop leadership abilities and provide people on the spectrum the chance to speak up for themselves and their communities, motivating others and bringing about significant social change.

Promote inclusive practices across all sectors. Encourage families, friends, and educators to embrace inclusive policies and practices that give people with autism fair access to education, work, and civic engagement, among other facets of life.

Foster acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation. Strengthen societal understanding of autism and the unique contributions of individuals on the spectrum, breaking stereotypes and creating an environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone has the chance to thrive.

Let us go beyond mere “consciousness” or “awareness” and inspire true inclusion through acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation. We encourage both public and private institutions to lead creative activities, events, and programs that build opportunities for our neurodiverse population across the country.

This is not just a week of awareness, but it is also about establishing action toward inclusion. Let’s all be part of creating a community in which all people are included. Together, we can bring the necessary rights and opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum and build a future in which no one falls behind.

Source: http://bit.ly/4j6DPF3