ANGELES CITY — Pampanga 1st District Rep. Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr., on Oct. 6 filed House Bill No. 5125, mandating the establishment of centers for autism nationwide.
Under HB 5125, national and provincial centers for autism will be established to formulate and implement an integrated and comprehensive plan for the diagnosis, therapy, and rehabilitation of individuals with autism.
The centers shall provide free diagnosis, therapy, and rehabilitation; vocational training for adults with autism; employment opportunities for individuals with autism; and counseling, orientation, and referral services.
The facilities shall also implement early detection and intervention programs for children under five years old within their jurisdictions, in coordination with the respective barangays for screening, parent education, and early therapy for the children.
Part of the centers’ mandate is to promote awareness through advocacy programs.
“Autism is a prevalent condition in the country, and yet, there remains a pressing need to promote public awareness and establish appropriate support systems for individuals with autism,” Lazatin said.
Based on data from the Autism Society of the Philippines, in 2018, there are approximately 1.2 million Filipinos affected by autism.
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often face lifelong challenges related to social interaction, communication, and behavior. They are often stigmatized and isolated due to a lack of proper understanding of ASD as a condition.
“Through the establishment of these centers, we hope to provide individuals with autism and their families a place to seek assistance from, access education, and find a community,” Lazatin said.
Lazatin has always advocated policies for mental health.
On Aug. 4, Lazatin filed HB 2933, which mandates the inclusion of mental health emergency, psychiatric, and neurological services in the PhilHealth Mental Health Benefit Package for Out-Patient.
During his time as Angeles City mayor, Lazatin implemented a rescue program for mentally-challenged individuals roaming the streets of Angeles. Upon rescue, the individuals were brought to third-party, private mental health institutions and underwent treatment, paid for by the city government.
Team Lazatin Media
