Quezon City 5th District Representative Patrick Michael Vargas has introduced a measure in Congress seeking to establish a comprehensive support system for Filipinos diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), addressing both education and healthcare needs.
Filed under House Bill No. 3771, or the “Autism Assistance Act,” the proposal aims to institutionalize long-term government programs that will provide sustained assistance to individuals with autism and their families.
“Nararapat lamang na ang bawat Pilipino ay tratuhin at paglingkuran nang maayos, lalo na ang mga lubos na nangangailangan ng ating suporta at proteksyon,” Vargas said.
Citing expert estimates, Vargas noted that around 3 to 6 out of every 1,000 children are diagnosed with ASD, while approximately one in every 500 Filipinos is affected—bringing the estimated national total to about 200,000 individuals.
The lawmaker emphasized that autism remains a developmental condition that is not yet fully understood in the country, highlighting the need for stronger government intervention and support systems.
“Ang autismo ay nananatiling isang developmental disability na hindi pa lubos na nauunawaan sa ating bansa, kaya naman tungkulin ng pamahalaan na tiyakin na ang mga pamilyang kinakaharap ang kondisyong ito ay hindi nag-iisang lumalaban,” he added.
If enacted, the bill mandates the Department of Health (DOH) to establish a Global Autism Assistance Program funded through the national budget. The initiative aims to support non-government organizations and local service providers in expanding advocacy efforts and care services.
The proposed measure also includes a “Teach the Teachers” program designed to equip health and education professionals in provinces with updated knowledge on biomedical interventions, the impact of nutrition on behavior, and speech therapies.
“Lahat ng Pilipino ay may karapatang mabuhay nang may dignidad at inaalagaan ng pamahalaan. Sa pakikipagtulungan sa mga NGO at sa pribadong sektor, masisiguro natin na ang tulong ay makakarating sa mga tunay na nangangailangan,” Vargas said.
The Autism Assistance Act ultimately seeks to ensure that Filipino families facing ASD challenges receive consistent and accessible support, bridging existing gaps in education, healthcare, and community-based services.