The Metropolitan Tuguegarao Water District (MTWD) continues to champion inclusive public service as it joined the Spectrum of Hope Caravan, a nationwide campaign promoting autism awareness and acceptance, held today, April 04, 2025 at 3RD Floor, MTWD Building, San Gabriel, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) in partnership with the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Local Organizations conducted the said training as part of the celebration of World Autism Awareness Month. Central to the event was the Autism Sensitivity and Response Training (ASERT), which gathered over thirty (30) MTWD employees.
The training covered essential topics such as: Defining Autism, Autism in Society, Challenges of Persons on the Spectrum, Autism-OK Response, Sensitivity in Language, Real-life Scenarios, and concluded with “1 Pangako” which is a personal pledge of commitment to inclusion, followed by an open forum. Participants were reminded that autism is not a disease and does not need to be cured, and that with support and understanding, individuals on the spectrum can overcome challenges and live fully.
This initiative aligns with MTWD’s broader efforts to institutionalize inclusivity not only in the public service but in the bigger community. In fact, MTWD proudly co-piloted with the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Region 2 in the implementation of the Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) framework back in 2021. This landmark collaboration placed MTWD among the pioneering agencies advocating for equal access and representation across gender, ability, and socio-economic backgrounds. The ASERT session builds upon this foundation by strengthening District’s internal capacity to serve diverse populations with empathy and dignity.
Ms. Maria Imelda B. Bacud, Acting Department Manager, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to responsive and inclusive culture. In her opening message, she said “While it is true that there is no-one-size-fits-all understanding on autism as each person’s needs and experiences are unique, the key to making an impact lies in empathy, education and acceptance.” This highlighted MTWD’s ongoing commitment to fostering empathy, respect, and sensitivity within its service communities.
As the Spectrum of Hope Caravan continues its journey to schools, offices, and local communities nationwide, MTWD stands proud as a proactive partner in building a society where persons in the autism spectrum and all individuals are embraced, supported, and empowered.
