Autism Society PHL: Stop doing the 'Boyet challenge'

Autism Society Philippines on Thursday released a statement condemning "The Boyet Challenge," which is called a "thinly-veiled instrument of ridicule of those who live with autism and intellectual disabilities."

The call to discourage social media users from participating in the trend was made in time for the National Autism Consciousness Week. The challenge is a dare to mimic the mannerisms of the lead character in GMA Network's "My Special Tatay."

Republic Act 9442, which amended the existing Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, imposes sanctions against persons who ridicule or vilify people who are living with disabilities. However, Autism Society Philippines said it is more important to acknowledge the lack of values in making fun of PWDs.

"Kahit walang batas, makatao ba na pagtawanan ang mga kapatid nating may kapansanan? Huwag gawing kutya o katatawan ang pagkakaroon ng autismo," their statement read.

The group also launched the "#1bansa1pangako", which demands for an end to the wanton and causal use of "autistic" as an insult. —Aya Tantiangco/JST, GMA News