Michelle Dee calls for government support for individuals with autism

Michelle Dee continues her advocacy to support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) amid her busy schedule. 

According to Athena Imperial’s report on “24 Oras” on Friday, the Miss Universe Philippines 2023's advocacy is something close to her heart as she has two brothers who have ASD.

“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 Kapuso beauty queen also called for stronger government support and improved services for individuals on the autism spectrum, similar to what is provided in other countries. 

“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.

Her appeal is reflected in the proposed  Senate Bill 1822 or the National Autism Care, Support and Inclusion Bill, a measure being pushed into law by advocates like her and organizations such as the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), which aims to strengthen support systems and promote inclusivity for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

“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,” ASP National Spokesperson Mona Magno-Veluz said.

Michelle also urged lawmakers to pass the measure, stressing that it is long overdue. 

“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, ahead of the upcoming Angels Walk for Autism set on April 26 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Michelle and ASP expressed optimism that this year’s turnout will surpass the 40,000 attendees recorded last year. 

They also shared that the event will not be limited to Manila, as similar walks are expected to take place in other areas across the country.

“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.

An advocate for autism, Michelle brought her advocacy during the Miss Universe 2023 pageant, which won her The Voice for Change award, which includes a $12,000 cash prize that she donated to ASP.

Her winning national costume in the pageant has a special detail that includes her two brothers on the autism spectrum.

—Jade Veronique Yap/CDC, GMA News