Ejercito welcomes Senate approval of National Plan of Action for Autism
March 09, 2026
Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito welcomed the Senate’s approval on third and final reading of Senate Bill No. 1822, a measure establishing a National Plan of Action for the Care, Support, and Inclusion of Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Ejercito co-sponsored the bill and emphasized the importance of ensuring stronger government support for persons on the autism spectrum and their families.
“Autism should never be seen as a burden. Rather, it is a different way of viewing and experiencing the world,” the lawmaker from San Juan said.
As a health advocate, Ejercito underscored the need for early detection, accessible healthcare and intervention services, and stronger community-based support systems to help improve the quality of life of persons with autism.
“Hindi po sapat na sabihin lamang natin na mahalaga ang persons with autism. Ang kailangan natin ay konkretong plano para sa kanila at ang paglalagak ng karampatang pondo upang maipatupad ito,” he said.
The measure institutionalizes a coordinated national framework that will strengthen healthcare, education, and social services for persons with autism, while recognizing the vital role of parents and caregivers.
“Sa pamamagitan ng mga ito, umaasa tayo na mas magiging inklusibo ang ating lipunan at mas mapapalakas ang suporta ng pamahalaan para sa mga Pilipinong nasa autism spectrum at sa kanilang mga pamilya,” he added.
It can be recalled that Ejercito also filed Senate Bill No. 1381 creating a National Autism Program that will provide free access to therapy, inclusive education, and stronger community-based support.
The said program seeks to ease the heavy financial burden of families while promoting dignity and inclusion for children and adults with ASD.
