Statement on National Autism Program by Rep. Albee Benitez

In recent years, awareness in autism has grown as more and more children have been diagnosed with this condition. Filing a measure to address autism, therefore, is not only timely but necessary—an obligation we owe to thousands of Filipino families who deserve better support and services.

For me, however, autism is not an abstract policy concern—it is personal. Years ago, I learned that a member of my staff was raising a child with autism. Through her, I found out about the challenges families face in accessing the support and education for her child. But I also saw her family display boundless love, determination, and resilience as they did everything in their power to help their child live a full life.

That experience has stayed with me. Parents will do anything and give everything for their children. But though their love is limitless, their resources are not. That is why they need the government’s help.

At its core, the National Autism Program bill is about children. I believe that every child, regardless of circumstance, must be given the opportunity to be the best version of himself or herself. As parents, that is what we all want for our children. And as legislators, it is our duty to make sure the same opportunities are extended to every child in our country.

I pray that my colleagues in Congress will see this bill not only as another piece of legislation, but as a pledge we should make to every parent who dreams of a brighter tomorrow for their child—and I hope we can soon turn that promise into law.*

 

Congressman Alfredo “Albee” Benitez
Lone District of Bacolod City