As the Philippines marks the 30th National Autism Consciousness Week, authorities and advocates in Davao City are making a powerful call for greater respect and acceptance of individuals on the autism spectrum.
A Call to End Harmful Language and Stigma
The Davao City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), in collaboration with the Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP) Davao Chapter, is leading a campaign directed at all Dabawenyos. The core message is a plea to stop using autism as a punchline or an insult.
Julie P. Dayaday, Head of CSWDO, emphasized that casually using the word "autistic" to mock or tease friends and colleagues is deeply harmful. She stated that such language demeans individuals and reinforces negative stereotypes. The office, alongside ASP, has initiated a community pledge to foster more respectful dialogue.
"They really need respect," Dayaday explained. "We should not forget that we must not use the word 'autistic' to make fun of our colleagues or friends. Together with the Autism Society of the Philippines, we joined them in pledging that every Filipino, every Dabawenyo, will not use it to ridicule or laugh at others because they are children with special needs and they need to be respected."
Understanding and Dignity for People with Autism
Uswaldo Parreñas, President of ASP Davao Chapter, clarified common misconceptions about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). He stressed that the campaign goes beyond mere acceptance, aiming for a tangible commitment to respectful language and inclusive behavior.
"Having autism is not a joke or an insult; having autism is not equivalent to being unintelligent or indifferent. Having autism is not equivalent to being violent or having explosive behavior," Parreñas stated firmly. "People with autism deserve the right to exist with dignity."
Data and a Vision for an Inclusive Davao
Dayaday provided concrete data, revealing that as of October 31, 2025, the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) has registered 1,870 individuals with autism spectrum disorder in Davao City. This figure underscores the importance of the city-wide initiative.
She appealed to the public for compassion and proactive support. "Please, let us never look down on those with special needs. Instead of staring and judging, let us offer a helping hand or a smile of understanding. A person with autism has unique strengths and a dignity that must be respected," she added.
The campaign aligns with the broader vision of the City Government of Davao to build a community where no one is left behind. The goal is to ensure that all children and adults with autism are fully accepted, valued, and integrated into society with the respect they deserve.
