Manila: House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Jefferson Khonghun has introduced a legislative proposal aimed at establishing a thorough national framework for early detection, intervention, lifelong care, and societal inclusion for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the Philippines.
According to Philippines News Agency, House Bill 7878, known as the National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Act, was filed recently to formally acknowledge persons with ASD as individuals with disabilities. The bill emphasizes their entitlement to full protection of their rights, dignity, and inherent worth under Philippine law.
The proposed legislation mandates the development and execution of a National Plan of Action for Autism Spectrum Disorder. This initiative is to be spearheaded by the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) in collaboration with relevant government bodies, local government units, civil society organizations, autism self-advocates, parents' groups, and other stakeholders.
Under this measure, the Department of Health (DOH) is tasked with incorporating ASD detection, screening, referral, and diagnostic protocols into primary healthcare, maternal and child health programs, and other suitable health services. Additionally, the DOH will formulate standard clinical guidelines and training programs for healthcare professionals and workers.
The DOH, along with the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) and other concerned agencies, is responsible for ensuring the gradual availability of evidence-based ASD-related interventions and therapies in public health facilities. They are also to establish functional referral networks across various levels of care.
Further, the Department of Education, the Commission on Higher Education, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority are to enhance inclusive education and training programs for learners with ASD. This includes providing reasonable accommodation, learning support, and promoting transition pathways to employment or independent living.
The Department of Labor and Employment, Civil Service Commission, and other relevant agencies, in collaboration with the private sector, are encouraged to promote equal employment opportunities, skills development, and supported employment programs for individuals with ASD, aligning with existing labor and disability laws.
The bill also assigns the Department of Social Welfare and Development and local government units the task of integrating persons with ASD into existing social protection, assistance, and community-based support programs, including family education and counseling services.
The NCDA, in partnership with relevant government bodies, civil society organizations, and the private sector, is to lead ongoing information and education campaigns aimed at fostering public awareness, understanding, and acceptance of persons with ASD.
The legislation explicitly prohibits any form of discrimination against individuals with ASD, ensuring their rights to dignity, healthcare, inclusive education, employment, social protection, and participation in decisions affecting their welfare are upheld.
Khonghun emphasized the significance of the bill, stating, "Persons with autism and their families deserve a society that supports them from the earliest signs through every stage of life. This bill institutionalizes early detection, evidence-based interventions, inclusive education, equal employment opportunities, and robust community-based support - paving the way from diagnosis to dignified, independent, and meaningful participation in Philippine society."
He added, "Early and sustained support today leads to greater independence, contribution, and belonging tomorrow. This measure is about building a truly inclusive Philippines - one where no one is left behind."
