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Former Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Dee has once again made her voice heard, calling for support for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

In an interview with the Kapuso news program 24 Oras, Michelle urged the government to intensify its focus and provide more assistance to those living with this condition.

According to her, this advocacy is very close to her heart because she has siblings with the same condition. This personal connection motivates her to help and share the blessings she receives with her chosen cause.

“It's more on motivation to use what I have and the gifts that I have been given by God to help my brothers and to help the platform,” Michelle said.

The Sparkle star also highlighted the need for the government to bolster its assistance and upgrade the facilities available to the autism community, aiming to match international standards.

“That also includes removing some of the financial burdens from the family because that's something I've noticed abroad, where there is financial support and all of these systems in place to help the families go through it, whether that's education, whether that's healthcare,” she shared.

Working with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), Michelle is advocating for the passage of Senate Bill 1822. This National Autism Care measure is designed to strengthen government support and guarantee inclusivity for both individuals on the spectrum and their families.

ASP national spokesperson Mona Magno-Veluz clarified the scope of the Senate-approved measure, noting that it serves as a strategic foundation for future government action.

“The bill that has been approved on the Senate floor is actually for a plan. So it does not include the details of it, but instead it provides a framework so that we can have a long-term, detailed, responsive, and flexible plan to address the needs of our community,” Mona said.

Driven by her personal connection to the cause, the beauty queen emphasized that the only barrier to better care is the lack of a formal legal system, urging lawmakers to act now.

“My appeal to the lower House is sana ipasa na natin because this is definitely long overdue. The only thing that's stopping them from getting the necessary care and needs and provisions is for government to actually pass it and make it part of the system,” she said.

Meanwhile, Michelle and the ASP are gearing up for the Angels Walk for Autism on April 26 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, expecting to beat last year's record of 40,000 participants.

This year's celebration of inclusivity will also feature regional walks, bringing the advocacy to communities beyond Metro Manila.

“This time po, we will have 12 cities simultaneously holding the Angels Walk for Autism on April 26. 'Yung pong Angels Walk for Autism, isa pong patunay na ang ASP from a simple family support group ay isa nang nationwide movement, pambansang kilusan,” ASP chair emerita Dang Koe said.

Michelle's journey to the Miss Universe stage was more than just a competition, it was a mission.

After winning The Voice for Change and donating the $12,000 grant to the ASP, she proved that her advocacy was genuine.

Even her iconic national costume carried a deep personal meaning, incorporating a special detail dedicated to her two brothers, who serve as her primary inspiration.

Watch Michelle Dee's advocacy in the video above.

Related Gallery: Michelle Dee takes on the role of Philippine Red Cross Ambassador