• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Deputy Speaker Alfredo Abelardo Benitez has condemned the discriminatory and demeaning remarks directed at Josh Aquino, son of celebrity Kris Aquino, in a viral podcast, saying that persons with autism deserve respect, understanding and equal opportunities.
In a statement, the Lone District of Bacolod City representative, author of House Bill No. 3379 or the proposed National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Act, said the remarks were not harmless jokes but statements that perpetuate ableism, reinforce harmful stereotypes and undermine the dignity of persons with disabilities (PWDs).
He added that calling someone “walang kwenta” (worthless) because of their special needs is not merely insensitive but an attack on their dignity and worth as a human being.
“Freedom of expression is not a license to demean or humiliate others,” Benitez stressed, adding that having autism does not make anyone less human, less deserving of appreciation or less worthy of respect.
He said that discrimination should not be tolerated or ignored, emphasizing that a person’s condition should never be used as a reason to trample on their dignity.
Benitez called on the public to choose compassion over cruelty and inclusion over discrimination, stressing that no one should be made to feel worthless because they are different. | GPB
