A STUDENT who graduated summa cum laude from De La Salle University’s Department of Psychology is being recognized not only for academic excellence, but also for proudly identifying with autism.

Juan Alfonzo “Japonz” Dacumos received the highest academic distinction during DLSU’s 202nd Commencement Exercises. During his valedictory speech, Dacumos credited the university’s inclusive environment for helping him grow with confidence and self-acceptance. 

“I am autistic and there’s nothing wrong with that,” he said in his speech. 

He went on to say that in the Philippines, autism is often defined by social difficulties, challenges in self-care, and assumptions of limited potential. 

“For so long, people suggested autistic individuals were incapable of succeeding and achieving typical life goals such as strong careers, living independently, or even graduating with flying colors,” he said. 

Dacumos shared that the support of faculty, staff, and peers allowed him to embrace his neurodivergence as part of who he is, rather than something to overcome.

“[…] You never criticized me nor saw a deficit. Instead, you saw a difference— a difference that never made me inferior or less capable. And with this, you encouraged me to thrive in a way that allowed me to embrace my autism,” said Dacumos. 

He emphasized that autism was not something to be ashamed of. It is not something that he needs to “overcome.”

“You showed me that my autism is a part of me that can co-exist with my best self,” he said.

“You made an autistic boy look into his future with hope.”

According to the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. 

As of 2023, it is estimated that around 1 in 100 Filipinos are on the autism spectrum, though experts believe the number may be underreported due to lack of diagnosis and awareness.

While advocacy has grown in recent years, stigma remains a persistent barrier. Some Filipinos continue to view autism largely through the lens of disability, emphasizing deficits and caregiving burdens. 

Dacumos’s achievement challenges long-held stereotypes and shows what’s possible when difference is met with support, not stigma.