CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — The city government of San Fernando opened the San Fernando Center for Autism and Neurodiversity (SFCAN!) as part of its commitment to build a more inclusive and supportive environment for neurodivergent persons and their families.
Mayor Vilma Caluag said the facility is a testament that no Fernandino will be left behind, regardless of age, ability, and status in life.
“Ito ay paalala, panata, at patuloy na paglaban para sa isang mas makatao, mas inklusibo, at mas makatarungang komunidad. Ito ay isang milestone at isa na namang first, hindi lamang sa ating lungsod kundi sa buong rehiyon,” the mayor stressed.
The center will offer early detection and intervention services for children with autism and other neuro-developmental conditions.
It will also serve as a support hub for parents and caregivers; a training venue for teachers, health workers, and frontliners; and a model center for inclusive education and community-based rehabilitation.
“SFCAN! is envisioned to be a ‘tahanan ng pag-asa’ for neurodivergent children,” Caluag noted, highlighting the center’s structured learning activities, accessible services, and family-centered programs.
For his part, Councilor Harvey Quiwq, who authored the ordinance creating the center, expressed pride that the long-envisioned project has come to life.
“Hindi na lamang isang panaginip ang SFCAN! dito sa San Fernando, kundi isang patunay na sa San Fernando, walang maiiwan. Lahat ay kasama,” he said.
Quiwa added that through the center, the city can better bridge children on the autism spectrum toward readiness, independence, and social participation.
The councilor said that the center was built to respond to the pressing need not only in San Fernando, but across the country, to ensure that children and families navigating neurodevelopment conditions receive timely, equitable, and dignified support.
To dates, the city said it has already conducted developmental assessments for around 700 Fernandinos, reflecting growing demand for accessible developmental assessments and support services within the community.
