This year’s Autism
Society Philippines (ASP) Angels Walk has broken records as the largest
gathering of advocates for people on the spectrum in Southeast Asia. Hosted in
partnership with SM Cares, the annual celebration found its largest run yet
held simultaneously in 12 locations across the Philippines, including SM’s
nationwide network of most-loved Supermalls.
The Autism Society Philippines (ASP), together with SM Cares and its partners, gathered 47,500 allies and advocates nationwide together at the ASP Angels Walk for Autism last April 26, 2026. The record-breaking attendance this year reflects the growing support for the Autism Community through collective programs and efforts done by SM Cares and the ASP in forging an Autism-OK Philippines.
For close to two
decades, SM hosted the ASP Angels Walk as a celebration that aims to turn a
long-standing advocacy into a meaningful celebration of inclusion, dignity, and
hope. This year's celebration further expanded this advocacy by empowering
communities through simultaneous walks across SM's most-loved malls
nationwide.
“ASP Angels Walk
reminds us that inclusion is about creating space, and more importantly, making
people feel that they truly belong. At SM, we are honored to walk united with
the autism community—their families and fellow advocates who have long shown us
the power of courage and perseverance. This commitment is about pursuing
transformative inclusivity: empowering communities until every person is seen,
supported, and given the opportunity to thrive,” said Steven Tan, President, SM
Supermalls.
Barrier-free inclusion and transformative action
This year's theme
“Aumbitious. Aarangkada. Aangat.”, encouraged like-minded advocates to turn
aspirations and conversations on impactful inclusivity into actions that are
not only felt but are transformative.
To prepare for the
event the SM Mall of Asia Arena’s venue team underwent specialized training
from the Department of Tourism called "Barrier-Free Tourism Kaya
Natin." The comprehensive session focused on enhancing accessibility and
inclusivity for customers on the spectrum ensuring their safety and wellbeing
while in the premises.
This year’s event was also made special through the recognition of meaningful partners in the advocacy, including SM Book Nook, which was honored as ASP Autism Works Partner of the Year. The distinction reflects how inclusive community spaces can help open more opportunities for learning, engagement, and belonging. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte was also recognized with the Hans T. Sy Leadership Award for Autism Inclusion and Welfare, honoring leadership that supports the autism community in meaningful and lasting ways.
Collaborative
Advocacy
Since its
inception, the ASP Angels Walk has grown into a long-standing movement that
champions inclusion and advances the vision of an Autism-OK Philippines. The
movement is reinforced by SM's pursuit of becoming a truly inclusive Mall for
All—accepting, accommodating, and appreciative of customers no matter what
their needs may be.
As a continuing
partner of ASP, SM Cares remains committed to building spaces and programs that
support the autism community throughout the year. With sustained initiatives in
inclusion, accessibility, and community engagement, SM continues to stand with
individuals on the spectrum and their families—always working toward a future
where no one is left behind.
Held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City and simultaneously in SM City Bacolod, SM City Baguio, SM City Butuan, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM City Davao, SM City Iloilo, SM City Lipa, SM City Lucena, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Tuguegarao, and Virac Town Plaza, this year’s ASP Angels Walk continued to unite communities across the country in support of individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
Thousands of participants gather at SM Mall of Asia Arena for the ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2026, demonstrating nationwide support for autism acceptance, accommodation and appreciation.
SM Book Nook receives the ASP Autism Works Partner of the Year Award, represented by Ms. Hanna Carinna Sy, recognizing its commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for the autism community.
A stage performance highlights talent and inclusion during the ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2026 program, reinforcing its message of advocacy, representation, and community engagement.
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