Cebu City is moving to strengthen how schools and communities respond to developmental concerns among children. City officials say many early signs of autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder are first noticed in classrooms. Without a clear system, families often struggle to know where to turn next.
A Proposed Citywide Framework
At the center of the plan is the proposed Cebu City Autism and ADHD Early Diagnosis and Awareness Ordinance of 2025. Authored by Councilor Michelle Abella-Cellona, the measure aims to bring early screening closer to schools and barangays. It focuses on building a structured referral process that links education and health services.
Training Those On The Frontlines
Teachers, guidance counselors, and school health personnel would receive training to spot early warning signs. With parental consent, children may then be referred for proper medical evaluation. Annual awareness sessions for school staff and parent groups are also part of the proposal.
Making Diagnosis More Affordable
Cost remains one of the biggest barriers for families seeking help. The ordinance proposes an initial P10 million fund to subsidize diagnostic services and improve public health capacity. Health experts noted that basic screenings can cost at least P4,000 and even more in major cities.
Linking Care With National Benefits
Medical professionals urged the city to align the program with PhilHealth mental health benefit packages. Many families, they said, are unaware of existing assistance or find it difficult to access. Better coordination could help reduce both expenses and delays.
Advocates emphasized that awareness must go hand in hand with inclusive learning environments. They warned that wider screening should be matched with enough specialists to avoid long waiting lists. If approved, the city would work with public hospitals, schools, barangay health centers, and the Cebu City Medical Center to roll out the program.
