Non-profit organization Autism Society PH (ASP) begs netizens to stop “The Boyet Challenge,” which imitates actor Ken Chan’s character who is a young father who has mild Autism Spectrum Disorder and mild intellectual disability on GMA-7 teleserye My Special Tatay.
In a statement on its Facebook page, the ASP “condemns the latest social media experiment called ‘The Boyet Challenge’ as thinly-veiled instruments of ridicule of those who live with autism and intellectual disabilities” referencing Republic Act 9442 saying that the law “protects persons with disabilities *(PWDs) from ridicule and vilification; and imposes fines and imprisonment as penalties to violators.”
The organization adds in Filipino, “But even if there is no law, are we still human if we laugh at our brothers and sisters with a disability? Don’t make having autism a mockery or something to be ridiculed.” In conclusion, the statement ends, “All this as we commemorate the National Autism Consciousness Week!”
With its statement, the group launches the #1bansa#1pangako advocacy, which aims to end the use of ‘autistic’ as an insult. In its words, “Let us promise to act to stop the derogatory use of the word ‘autistic’ and to promote the true acceptance and inclusion of Filipinos with disabilities. One simple promise can spur the change that may make life better for millions of Filipinos with autism.”
Most recently, ASP also posted an article on its page answering “six common questions on the logic behind the #no2boyetchallenge,” stating “There is no need to pick fights. Many who have participated in this challenge quickly recognize the disability slur once it is pointed out. Think of this as an opportunity to teach and inspire change. Peace to all!”
ASP is celebrating their 30th year as a non-profit organization this 2019, promoting “a society where persons with autism become the best of their potentials, self-reliant, independent, productive, socially-accepted citizens.”