MANILA — The Senate has taken a major step toward strengthening support for Filipinos with autism, unanimously passing the proposed National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Act on March 10, 2026.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, who authored and sponsored Senate Bill No. 1822, led the push for the measure, which was approved on third reading with a 20-0 vote. The bill seeks to establish a comprehensive care plan that enhances early detection and diagnosis, expands access to healthcare and therapy, ensures inclusive education, and provides stronger social protection for persons with autism (PWAs), their families, and carers.

“Mas malapit nang makamit ang matagal na nating pinapangarap na National Autism Care Plan para mabigyan ng dagdag na suporta ang mga persons with autism (PWAs), ang kanilang mga pamilya, at carers sa pamamagitan ng early detection, serbisyong pangkalusugan, edukasyon, at social protection,” Hontiveros said.

The measure also lays the groundwork for improving financial protection and government services for PWAs. This includes broader PhilHealth coverage, stronger caregiver support, and enhanced training for healthcare workers.

“Hindi lang ito limitado para sa mga PWAs. Kasama rito ang pagpaparami ng mga espesyalista at pagbibigay ng training para sa mga healthcare workers para mas may kakayanan silang tumugon sa mga pangangailangan ng mga PWAs, lalo na’t palalawakin at mas pagbubutihan pa ang serbisyo para sa mga Pilipinong may autism sa buong bansa,” the senator added.

Hontiveros expressed gratitude to her colleagues for rallying behind the bill, noting its passage comes just weeks before World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.

“Lubos ang pasasalamat ko sa aking mga colleagues sa Senado sa 20th Congress. We hope that the House of Representatives also gets to pass their own version of the measure,” she said.

The senator emphasized that the National Autism Care Plan builds on her long-standing advocacy for a more compassionate and responsive health system. Over her years in Congress and the Senate, she has championed landmark reforms such as the Expanded Maternity Leave Law, the Mental Health Act, and the Safe Spaces Act — all aimed at strengthening dignity, care, and protection for vulnerable Filipinos.

This latest measure, she said, is another step toward ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in the country’s pursuit of inclusive and universal healthcare.

📷 Sen. Risa Hontiveros FB