The Philippine Embassy in the UAE in collaboration with the Philippine Ladies Circle pledged 1bansa, 1pangako as part of the Autism Society Philippines’ official campaign in celebration of World Autism Awareness Day.
The event was part of the lecture series spearheaded by Philippine Ladies Circle Chair and Spouse to the Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Mme Yoko Ramos-Vingno. “This is very important especially to our front liners so that they are aware how to handle our fellow Filipinos, especially kids, who have special needs,” said Vingno.
Dr. Maria Lourdes Sta Rosa Casas, pediatrician and pediatric cardiologist at Al Ahalia Hospital in Hamdan, said that as early as 18 months, parents can already notice that there might be something wrong with the child. “As a pediatrician we monitor the growth and development of the child, as well as the psychomotor and social development. If they are delayed, then these are the red flag that something is wrong. Especially with the language and communication, socialization of each child,” explains Dr. Casas
Kismette Riguerra, special education teacher at the Future Rehabilitation Center, added that it is important for all Filipinos to be aware of persons with special needs and accept them. “More than awareness, we have to accept them (persons with autism, special needs) as part of our community,” said Riguerra.
