MANILA – A Filipina advocate for persons with autism has been awarded with the inaugural ASEAN Prize during the opening ceremony of the 33rd ASEAN Summit and Related Summits on Tuesday evening in Singapore.
Erlinda Uy Koe of the Autism Society Philippines and the ASEAN Autism Network bested 49 other nominees for the citation personally conferred by Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
“For the inaugural ASEAN prize to go (to) the family autism advocacy is a statement that the ASEAN is embracing the inclusion of persons with autism like our children,” said Koe, who received a US$20,000 cash prize and a trophy.
Moreover she said the ASEAN prize increases the visibility of autism and expands the involvement of the community.
Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo, meanwhile, congratulated Koe on behalf of Malacañang.
The Palace official said Koe brought “tremendous pride and great honor to the country.”
“Her contributions in improving the lives of persons with autism symbolize the spirit of the ASEAN as an inclusive, resilient, people-oriented, and people-centered community,” said Panelo.
“We cannot be more proud of Ms. Koe, and may her exemplary works inspire greater righteousness and dignity in all of us,” he added./PN
