Children With Intellectual
And Developmental
Disabilities In The
Philippines: Challenges
And Interventions
Children with intellectual and developmental
disabilities (IDDs) in the Philippines face
significant challenges, including social exclusion
and lack of access to essential services. However,
there are inspiring initiatives by private
organizations and the government to address
these issues and improve the quality of life for
this population.
By Adeniada Garceniego
Understanding Intellectual
and Developmental
Disabilities
Diverse Conditions
1
IDDs encompass a wide range of disorders that affect
physical, intellectual, and emotional development,
including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and
more.
Impact on Functioning
2
These conditions can manifest before age 18 and
negatively impact intellectual functioning and adaptive
behavior, such as learning, reasoning, and everyday
skills.
Growing Population
3
In 2019, there were approximately 317 million children
and adolescents with health conditions contributing to
developmental disabilities globally, and the numbers
are rising in the Philippines.
Challenges of Social Inclusion
Negative Attitudes Disrupted Routines Behavioral Challenges
Many people have The COVID-19 pandemic The disruptions and lack
negative stereotypes and and lockdowns of support during the
misconceptions about exacerbated the pandemic led to increased
individuals with IDDs, challenges, as children behavioral problems and
leading to discrimination with IDDs struggled with aggression in children
and exclusion from sudden lifestyle changes, with IDDs, further
education, employment, disrupted routines, and isolating them from
and other essential lack of access to therapy society.
services. and support.
Private Sector Initiatives
Special Olympics Autism Society CARD, Phils.-Pafi
Pilipinas Philippines This non-profit institution
This organization provides This group offers support, uses the F.I.T. Approach
sports programs that education, and advocacy for (Functional, Integrated,
develop physical and social individuals with autism and Team Approach) to provide
skills, boost self-confidence, their families, as well as quality education and
and showcase the abilities of training and employment develop the potential of
children with IDDs. opportunities. individuals with IDDs.
Government Efforts
1 RA 11650
This law, approved in 2022, requires public schools
to identify and provide free basic and quality
education to learners with special needs, as well
as establish Inclusive Learning Resource Centers.
2 Implementation Challenges
While the law is a positive step, it has faced
challenges in effective enforcement, including
architectural barriers and the non-issuance of
Implementing Rules and Regulations.
3 Ongoing Efforts
The government must continue to strengthen its
initiatives, ensure proper budget allocation, and
provide training for educators to effectively
implement the law and support children with IDDs.
Benchmarking and Best Practices
Adapt Best Practices
Studying successful programs and approaches in
other countries can help the Philippines apply
new trends and technologies to better support
children with IDDs.
Utilize Advanced Technology
Incorporating the latest assistive technologies
and specialized facilities can enhance the
learning and development of children with IDDs.
Continuous Improvement
Ongoing evaluation and refinement of programs
and policies are crucial to ensure the most
effective and inclusive support for this
population.
Promoting Equality and Inclusion
Equal Treatment Inclusive Mindset Unlocking Potential
All children, regardless of Fostering an inclusive By providing the necessary
their condition, deserve mindset and breaking down support and resources,
equal opportunities and stereotypes is essential to children with IDDs can
treatment in society, ensure children with IDDs develop their skills and
without any form of can fully participate and reach their full potential,
discrimination. thrive in their communities. contributing to a more
inclusive and equitable
Collaborative Efforts
GovernmentEffective Adequate Continuo
implemen funding us
tation of and training
laws and resources for
policies educators
Private Innovativ Advocacy Partnersh
Sector e and ips with
programs awarenes the
and s governm
services campaign ent
Families Active Collabora
s Sharing
involvem tion with of
ent in support experienc
their organizati es and
children's ons best
education practices
and care
A Brighter Future for All
By working together, the government, private
sector, and families can create a more inclusive
and supportive environment for children with IDDs
in the Philippines. Through continued efforts,
innovative programs, and a shared commitment to
equality, these children can thrive and reach their
full potential, contributing to a more just and
equitable society for all.
