I asked few people around about their idea of what is AUTISM. While some answered, others just gave me shrugged shoulders. Among those who offered responses, I was surprised to note that most of them described autism similar to those physically manifested disabilities like Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy.
Such is a tangible proof that autism awareness in General Santos City and the rest of the region is not yet fully disseminated. It is sad to know that the general public is uninformed and in some other case, not yet willing to accept autism as part of today’s society.
Let me share to you the definition I used to mumble when I was only beginning to be a part of this special community. Autism “is a developmental disorder that affects how a person sees, hears, touches, tastes and smells; therefore how he perceives the whole world.” Furthermore, it is characterized by triad impairments in the areas of adaptation, communication and social. And although there have been numerous claims linking it to genetic causes, it is still of an unknown origin and an unknown cure.
The Philippines is not spared from this disorder either. Looking back a bit in 1992, the enactment of Magna Carta for Disabled Persons provided the government a stronger impetus to improve on its educational services for these children. The law mandates that the "State shall take into consideration the special requirements of disabled persons in the formulation of educational policies and programs." On the other hand, learning institutions are encouraged "to take into account the special needs of disabled persons with respect to the use of school facilities, class schedules, physical education requirements, and other pertinent consideration."
But since inclusive education involves changes in educational philosophies, curriculum offerings, teaching strategies and structural organizations, however, special schools need huge funding for this program to be fully implemented of which the children with special needs will benefit most. Not to mention, unluckily, sustenance still mostly come from nongovernment organizations and individuals. Many schools lack therapists and facilities for the handicapped.
The establishment of SOCSKSARGEN Center for Adaptive Intervention (SCAI) is anchored on the advocacy to cater children with special needs specifically those with autism and other related disorders. With “Soaring New Heights of Intervention” as its tagline, the intervention center maintains an accepting atmosphere that honors differences and embraces diversity of students. Its implementation of a modern, interactive and participatory curriculum has eliminated segregation, seclusion, isolation among children with special needs. Its teaching practices that are based on scientifically accepted views are up to dated by special education consultants.
Moreover, the SCAI has been enthusiastic with the revival of the Autism Society Philippines- GenSan Chapter. This is one proof of the institution’s commitment to disseminate autism awareness in General Santos City and among nearby communities in the region. This has also given parents with special children a new hope.
In most recent times, SCAI has been also very ardent to make linkages among educational institutions and bridge connections with medical professionals. Tie up with regular schools to cater mainstreaming program for children from the intervention center and partnership with medical schools to expose affiliates to the world of autism are strong proofs of its efforts for such commitment. It is so worthy also to note that the intervention center also works hand in hand with developmental pediatricians, occupational therapists and speech pathologists in providing children and families a stronger thrust.
This is only the beginning of everything. The advocacy to spread autism awareness continues. And this requires more than just words from the mouth. It needs a welcoming society with an expansive heart that supports special children and families regardless of developmental condition, social status and economic circumstance.
by Michael Bobias Cahapay
