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URL: https://www.facebook.com/61561697942269/posts/122131378304389931/?rdid=TbkhyoNi6lUYF8bw

Title: Creating a welcoming environment, Havaianas launches Autism Exposure Program here at SM City Davao.

Author: SM Davao

Date Published: November 6, 2024

Key Information: An establishment in SM City Davao, the Havaianas store, launched an autism exposure program wherein students from the Autism Therapy Center Foundation of Davao Inc. will be on their training as employees of the said store. The program aims to foster an inclusive environment for individuals with autism, where their uniqueness and abilities are embraced and appreciated. Through this program, many individuals with autism in Davao City were given the opportunity to work and engage with different people.

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Creating a welcoming environment, Havaianas launches Autism Exposure Program here at SM City Davao. 🌻💚🩴

Students from Autism Therapy Center Foundation of Davao Inc., will be on their training at...

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URL: https://davaotoday.com/economy/health/government-support-awareness-for-autism-treatment-in-davao-pushed/

Title: Government support, awareness for autism treatment in Davao pushed

Author: Kath M. Cortez

Date Published: January 20, 2020

Key Information: This local news article talks about raising the importance of government support funding for therapy and evaluation as well as raising awareness and opening doors for their employment and inclusion in the community. It was also stated in the article that because of the stigma and cost of medication, some parents are hesitant or afraid to see a doctor for the good of their children.

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URL: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2022/02/14/2160781/pwd-groups-call-out-former-speaker-alvarez-using-autism-insult

Title: PWD groups call out former speaker Alvarez for using autism as an insult

Author: Franco Luna - The Philippine Star

Date Published: February 14, 2022

Key Information: During a campaign rally in Panabo City Davao del Norte, former house speaker Pantaleon Alvarez made fun of a candidate by making comments such as the candidate being a special child and autistic, which the PWD Philippines then called the remarks an affront to all parents of children living with autism.

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PWD groups call out former Speaker Alvarez for using autism as insult

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“How can you expect people to vote for you when your words betray your true intentions Mr. Alvarez? You should apologize to the PWD community because we are voters too!”

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5. Local or National News Video Segment (Ava)

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5. Local or National News Video Segment (Ava)

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URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZYocL8c7wY

Title: Autism Spectrum, Gikonsiderang Silent Epidemic

Author: Laizelle Labajo - Brigada News Gensan

Date Published: May 15, 2024

Key Information: In this national news video segment, it is stated that there are still a lot of children in Gensan City who are under the autism spectrum who are under privilege. The news also talks about the importance of understanding, accepting, and supporting every child on the autism spectrum to ensure that individuals with autism and their families feel valued and supported by having a more inclusive environment.

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Autism spectrum, gikonsiderang silent epidemic

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URL: https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/feature/sm-davao-malls-bring-chrismiles-to-abandoned-children-kids-with-autism

Title: SM Davao malls bring ‘ChriSMiles’ to abandoned children, kids with autism

Author: Sun Star Davao Digital

Date Published: Dec 23, 2024

Key Information: This feature article covers the yearly "ChriSMiles" program by SM Lanang and SM City Davao. This program brought joy during the holidays to 90 abandoned children and kids with autism from the Rainbow Intervention Center for Autism Foundation Inc. (RICAFI) and the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC)

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Children under the care of the Rainbow Intervention Center for Autism Foundation Inc. (Ricafi) and the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) received gifts composed of art materials, SM Bears of Joy stuffed toys, crawling mats, school supplies, hygiene kits, treats, milk, and other baby necessities, respectively.

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SM Davao malls bring 'ChriSMiles' to abandoned children, kids with autism

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SM Lanang and SM City Davao continue to spread the holiday cheer to 90 abandoned children and kids with autism through ChriSMiles, an annual employee volunteeri

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URL: https://www.davaocity.gov.ph/social-services/davao-city-celebrates-national-autism-consciousness-week/

Title: Davao City Celebrates National Autism Consciousness Week

Author: City Government of Davao

Date Published: January 16, 2023

Key Information: Davao City celebrates National Autism Consciousness Week annually in January to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and support individuals with developmental challenges. Activities include an art exhibit by autistic patients and initiatives by the Special Office for Children’s Concerns (SOCC) to promote early detection and effective interventions. The celebration underscores collaboration between public and private sectors to dispel misconceptions, protect rights, and foster inclusion for individuals with autism.

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Davao City celebrates National Autism Consciousness Week - City Government of Davao

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The City Government of Davao, through the Special Office for Children’s Concerns (SOCC), celebrates this year’s National Autism Consciousness Week. Held every third week of January, the event aims to raise awareness on autism spectrum disorders, their various signs and symptoms, and the interventions that may be provided to persons under the autism spectrum to […]

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URL: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=175761003632756

Title: Bidabawenyo: Noben

Author: Shannon Pabroa - ByahengDO30

Date Published: January 20, 2020

Key Information: Noven, a 40-year-old man from Davao City with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), showcased his skills and talents in art and painting. His developmental disability did not hinder him from showcasing his skills and capabilities. With the support of his father and art foundations, he is empowered and becomes confident to express himself through art.

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Bidabawenyo: Noben | Matag bulan sa Enero, ginasaulog nato ang Philippine National Autism Consciousness Week ug tumong niini kay ang pag inspire sa katawhan to accept,... | By Madayaw Davao | Facebook

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Matag bulan sa Enero, ginasaulog nato ang Philippine National Autism Consciousness Week ug tumong niini kay ang pag inspire sa katawhan to accept,...

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URL: https://www.facebook.com/ratsadaarangkadabalitatv/videos/1100093498370010

Title: WHAT IS AUTISM?

Author: Ratsada Arangkada Balita - Digos (RAB TV Digos)

Date Published: November 22, 2024

Key Information: This video podcast tackles autism, its causes, effects, and struggles it brings to an individual diagnosed with it. The Behavior Analyst, Ms. Fe Anabelle Caesar, who is the guest of the video and director of the Rainbows & Butterflies Learning Center located at Mintal, Davao City, emphasized that every person or child should not be left behind and that a person with autism should be treated with care and respect. She also emphasized that there are still many children with special needs all over Mindanao, particularly in Digos City, that are being overlooked.

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URL: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=445329484553107

Title: The Most Common Neurodevelopmental Problems in Children

Author: Dr. Mervin Edcel Flavier - Davao Doctors Hospital

Date: April 27, 2024

Key Info: This Med Talk Series of the Davao Doctors Hospital, led by Dr. Mervin Edcel Flavier, a pediatric neurodevelopmental, discusses the most common neurodevelopmental problems in children, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Dr. Mervin talked about the symptoms of ASD, such as challenges in social interaction, communication difficulties, repetitive behaviors, and limited interest in activities. Dr. Mervin also mentioned the common approaches to treatment for common cases, such as speech and occupational therapy.

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Most Common Neurodevelopmental Problems in Children with Dr. Mervin Edcel Flavier: #DDHeMedTalkSeries | Learn about the Most Common Neurodevelopmental Problems in Children with Dr. Mervin Edcel Flavier.

Join us in this #MedTalk episode as Dr. Mervin Edcel... | By Davao Doctors Hospital | Facebook

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Learn about the Most Common Neurodevelopmental Problems in Children with Dr. Mervin Edcel Flavier.

Join us in this #MedTalk episode as Dr. Mervin Edcel...

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13. Non-Government Organization or Academic Institution Article (Frankie)

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13. Non-Government Organization or Academic Institution Article (Frankie)

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URL: https://atenews.ph/to-mend-is-to-break-revoking-the-long-knit-stigmas-on-mental-health

Title: To Mend is to Break: Revoking the Long-Knit Stigmas on Mental Health

Author: Diwani Ma. Rosemina Gales & Stephen Camahalan

Date Published: November 6, 2023

Key Information: This article, written by local writers of Ateneo de Davao University, explores the ongoing stigma surrounding mental health and how societal perceptions can hinder open discussions and the general acceptance of mental health conditions, including those on the autism spectrum. The author calls for a shift in mindset, advocating for compassion, awareness, and a more inclusive society to address the needs of people with mental health challenges.

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As the day proceeds into yet another page, we are constantly greeted with instances that somehow place our composure to the ultimate test. Such scenarios include coming across unsettling questions like "Naunsa ka? Nabuang na ka?" We are also confronted with people who exhaust and misuse terms like delulu, bipolar, love-bombing, gaslighting, or anti-social, causing dilution to the meaning of the words themselves and possibly leaving those who know the true meaning of these words scratching heads.

Sometimes, these can be taken lightheartedly as jokes by the people involved to laugh about. Admittedly, it can even be used for slight banter between two individuals to create a more cheerful ambiance for teasing. However, for people suffering silently, these words may act as silent knives, breaking them into pieces.

Over the span of several years, discussions surrounding mental health have been constantly brought up on various platforms, with individuals of all ages being involved.

According to the Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA) - Davao Chapter Executive Manager, Teofilo S. Limikid, MsPsy, mental health is about a person's well-being where they can function productively in their everyday activities. Aside from this, Limikid also emphasized that mental health also refers to how a person can effectively manage their stress to get through the day.

In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) estimated that at least 3.6 million Filipinos are facing mental health problems during the pandemic. Such cases are not only limited to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and mood swings but are actually on a broader spectrum. But despite the numerous advocacies about mental health, most Filipinos still choose to stay silent and solve their problems by themselves.

There are multiple reasons as to why mental health problems exist. However, new reasons continue to surface every day, especially since mental health is a dynamic problem that can be influenced by different things in society.

" When you talk about mental health, it's a multi-factorial. So meaning to say, you cannot exactly pinpoint that this is the real reason or that's the real reason because mental health illness is a byproduct of different factors, " the PMHA-Davao Chapter Executive Manager said.

He also added that some of the reasons for mental health illnesses include genes or biological factors, pressures, and social media.

However, despite clarifications and definitions of mental health, there are still a lot of misconceptions and stigmas about the said topic. As such, the PMHA-Davao Chapter Executive Manager stated that one of the most commonly known misconceptions associated with mental health is the Cebuano term " Buang " which means crazy in English.

" Stigma is a perception. So negative ang perception ng tao in general- sa Filipino culture- about mental health. So meaning to say, when they hear the word "mental health" they would automatically equate that into an illness, " Limikid emphasized.

Such misconceptions are dangerous, for there is a vast possibility for discrimination, exclusion, and different treatment of persons who are suffering from mental health problems.Like a silent and deadly poison, this may plague their mind that mental health is negative in general when it is not.

Peer Consulting Program (PCP) President Tatiana Isabelle Prudente shared that people's initial thoughts upon hearing the term "mental health" usually revolve around its negative connotations, such as depression, suicide, and anxiety. Moreover, she stated that the general public usually associates it with not being yourself.

"'Cheer up, don't be sad. Other people have problems too,' so ganyan. Parang when people hear about mental health, as sad as it sounds, it's still- may negative pud siya na parang implementation kumbaga," she added.

BS Entrepreneurship first-year Rena Cheska Bustamante shared her personal experiences with mental health, where she would often hear that what she is experiencing is just all in her head. She further cited stigma-based comments, such as she is just making everything up, that she is merely overreacting, and to stop for it makes her seem weak.

" It's this dismissive response to mental health where they believe it's not real or it's not serious that makes so many students reluctant to share with others what they're going through," Bustamante shared.

In this case, help is difficult because every one of us is afraid of the judgment that we may receive from others. Being boxed and scrutinized by the misconceptions that there is something wrong with us is what makes most people afraid to seek help. Like a small cup of water, they try to keep themselves together until it becomes way too full to the point where they may break and it is something that must be corrected, especially since to be tattled to the parents is a nightmare that most students would not want to risk.

In a report published by the Relief Web, there are five barriers as to why people choose to stay silent especially when it comes to their mental health struggles. Aside from financial costs, the following includes the feelings of being ashamed, the feeling that they might possibly be perceived as crazy and weak, familial concerns about the problem, and other people's reactions.

But mental health is not just about these things. According to Prudente, mental health is actually a beautiful balance of both its negative and positive connotations. However, it should be generally associated with one's mental well-being and being healthy emotionally so that we are more than able to get through our day.
Mental health assistance in the university
In the university, emphasizing one's mental health is one of their ever-expanding advocacies.

As per Leah Reparado, Director of the College Wellness and Testing Center (CWTC), the institution is aimed toward numerous interventions to foster flourishing mental health among students, keeping them motivated and mentally unharmed while fulfilling academic responsibilities.

"...we have the basic services, the counseling service, the testing service, we have the career and guidance service, the referral service, ayan marami serbisyo. "

Reparado also laid the other services available in the school, including special programs, such as 5G's for the scholars, the "Life Always Matters" program, the Pagkalinga program, and the Magis Core program.

In keeping with the CWTC's ideals, the institution, in collaboration with the Peer Consulting Program and Life Always Matters Program, held its 2nd Mental Health Festival this October to extend the celebration of World Mental Health Month with the theme Thriving Together: Nurturing Resilience and Healthy Connections for Mental Health. Various organizations, agencies, and offices from Davao City, including Autism Society Philippines Davao, Body-Mind-Spirit Synch Health & Wellness Consultancy Services, City Social Welfare and Development Office, and others, participated in the event.

To mend is to break. Reminding society of the importance of mental health is organically bypassing the long-regarded sensitive topic of why there is a deep-rooted connotation-stigma-in it. A stigma that continues to blur out the minds of people in ways beyond anticipation. It is not tomorrow or in the coming days that we pave the way for mental health discussions to be considered normal; it is today that we regard it as a critical societal issue and be allowed to withdraw its misused connotations.

Revoking the long-knit stigmas of mental health will undoubtedly take time but will not take a decade to undergo once constantly mended and managed. With mental health services as the crucial source of healing and comfort for those in need of mental health assistance, ensuring the efficacy of enhancement facilities and the exigency to bridge the gap for stigmas is a paramount step in need of application. Focusing on adequate funding and availability while also actively producing trained and effective mental health specialists is also necessary, starting from smaller communities to larger ones, from our homes, schools, and workplaces, and even in areas where mental health care services are underutilized.

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Diwani Ma. Rosemina Gales, Stephen Camahalan

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To Mend is to Break: Revoking the Long-Knit Stigmas on Mental Health

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As the day proceeds into yet another page, we are constantly greeted with instances that somehow place our composure to the ultimate test. Such scenarios

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URL: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1APLv2jmmLg05mRTtQ6iBjwld9xH2LU6c?usp=sharing

Title: Voices Of Inclusion: Experiences of Parents Having Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Author: Jeeve C. Bonjibon, Regine Phoelea Mae F. Del Carmen, Bladelyn S. Sumugat

Date: April 1, 2024

Key Info: This study, conducted in Davao City, Davao del Sur, explored the experiences of parents raising children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The interviewed parents highlighted the challenges and advocacy efforts of parents raising children with ASD, shedding light on their unique perspectives and contributions toward creating a more inclusive society. Parents described their personal parenting journey as filled with various emotions, including fear, guilt, and confusion.

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URL: https://www.asianews.it/news-en/Philippines:-Hangop-Kabataan,-25-years-of-special-love-59120.html

Title: Philippines: 'Hangop Kabataan,' 25 Years of Special Love

Author: Santosh Digal - AsiaNews

Date Published: September 10, 2023

Key Information: Hangop Kabataan, an ecclesiastical foundation in Pagadian, Mindanao, Philippines, celebrated its 25th anniversary. The foundation is committed to supporting families with children with disabilities. Founded by Irish missionaries, it provides educational services, home care, and job assistance while promoting inclusion and eliminating stigma. The foundation continues its work with children of various disabilities, helping them gain skills for independence and societal integration. Through this foundation, many children with special needs in Mindanao can receive support, guidance, and alternative education.

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6. International News Video Segment (Frankie)

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6. International News Video Segment (Frankie)

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URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eil_Ka6T3gA&ab_channel=GulfNews

Title: Filipino teen with autism beats all odds

Author: Gulf News - Manuel Almenario

Date Published: March 26, 2018

Key Information: Euan Buenavides, a Filipino teen with autism, takes an inspiring stride as he takes on a regular job at Grant Thorton to support his mom and siblings. Euan’s journey shows how giving people with disabilities a chance can make a huge difference, inspiring others nationwide to pursue their dreams. Grant Thornton also has a branch in Davao City that opens its doors to individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities such as autism. They provide opportunities for individuals with special needs to showcase their talents by creating an inclusive workplace.

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Filipino teen with autism beats all odds

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URL: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14rBuRSYcs/

Title: ABUSE AND TRAUMA AMONG CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

Author: Child and Adolescent Neurodevelopmental Center - Brokenshire Medical Center

Date Published: July 17, 2023

Key Information: This advocacy poster tackles the prevalence of the different kinds of abuse among children with autism. Such difficulties that children with special needs experience are post-traumatic stress disorder, bullying, suicide, and physical and verbal sexual abuse. Published by a local hospital in Davao City (Brokenshire Medical Center), it states that there is a lack of any dedicated organization or government agency in Davao City and nationwide that will help monitor these cases. It also emphasizes the critical role of education and awareness in safeguarding children with autism.

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8. Public Service Message or Promotional Video (Andrea)

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8. Public Service Message or Promotional Video (Andrea)

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URL: https://www.instagram.com/thepusofoundation/reel/C35fyrRrt-u/

Title: "It Matters Project" Mission Trip

Author: The P.U.S.O Foundation

Date: February 29, 2024

Key Information: The PUSO Foundation is a non-profit organization that empowers individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and more through various service work such as fundraising and outreach program activities. Several children all over Davao City, and particularly in this video, in Talomo Davao City, are being provided with immediate care and access to resources such as food care packages, snacks, physical therapy, etc.; their “It Matters Project” creates a path for those individuals who are overlooked and underserved to experience joy and care.

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11. Data Infographic or Statistics (Hisana)

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11. Data Infographic or Statistics (Hisana)

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URL: https://austinpublishinggroup.com/psychiatry-mental-disorders/fulltext/jpmd-v8-id1069.pdf?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3foSU-RhCZFKKiJUGkzfw90Xb5-1C7prX1Khe-3tWzrGuccfXOofi0pbY_aem_dbUwaa8_gI_dKuYR_sb5sQ

Title: Sociodemographic and Clinical Profile of Pediatric Patients at the Out-Patient Department of a Psychiatric Facility in Southern Philippines

Author: Toledo CB and Sayon-Gonzalez DM

Date: October 26, 2022

Key Info: This study was conducted in the Department of Psychiatry, Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City. Among the population, 14.8% of patients had a diagnosis of Neurodevelopment Disorders such as ADHD, autism, and other learning disabilities. Most of the patients are from the Davao region at 89.5% (Page 3).

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By Group 2: Kelsie Cantero, Hisana Fornolles, Andrea Morales, Francis Ruiz, & Ava Vida

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By Group 2: Kelsie Cantero, Hisana Fornolles, Andrea Morales, Francis Ruiz, & Ava Vida