MANILA — A measure has been filed in the House of Representatives seeking to provide free therapy sessions and a monthly allowance for persons with autism, alongside broader support programs for individuals on the spectrum and their families.

In a media report, it said that Deputy Speaker and Bacolod Rep. Albee Benitez introduced House Bill 3379, or the “Act Instituting a Comprehensive National Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Program,” which aims to expand government assistance for persons with autism.

Under the proposal, the government would be required to provide free therapy sessions for persons with autism in both public hospitals and private clinics.

Benitez cited estimates that about 1.2 million Filipinos and their families are affected by autism spectrum disorder, noting persistent gaps in access to diagnosis, intervention, inclusive education, employment, and community support.

“These gaps limit not only their potential, but also the opportunities for them to fully participate in society. As a result, many parents are left with no choice but to seek costly services from private therapy centers or, worse, forgo therapy for their children,” he said.

The lawmaker also said that while existing laws such as the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities (Republic Act No. 7277) and the Inclusive Education Act (Republic Act No. 11650) provide safeguards, further policy strengthening is needed to improve implementation and expand support services.

Aside from therapy services, the bill also mandates free developmental assessments, home empowerment programs, inclusive education initiatives, employment opportunities, and additional leave benefits for parents of children with autism.

The measure also proposes an Autism Support Allowance Program to be administered by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), providing ₱4,000 monthly per person with autism, subject to possible inflation adjustments.

“Inclusion begins when government chooses to see every Filipino. Like any other person, every individual on the spectrum deserves support, dignity, and opportunity,” Benitez said.