Angels Walk for Autism 2025 Sets New Record
The Angels Walk for Autism 2025 brought together thousands in a meaningful celebration of the autism community. Held at the MOA Arena on Sunday, May 18, the event was spearheaded by the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) and SM Cares. This gathering was truly historic, as reports indicate that around 40,000 individuals joined the annual march, marking a record-breaking turnout.
Themed “Mahusay. Masaya. Makulay.” (Talented. Joyful. Colorful.), the event emphasized self-expression and empowerment for those on the autism spectrum. It highlighted the importance of inclusion and acceptance through vibrant activities and heartfelt performances.
Celebrating Achievements and Talents
One of the event’s highlights was the awarding ceremony, where Senator Risa Hontiveros received the HTS Leadership Award for Autism Inclusion and Welfare. Additionally, ARTipolo was honored as the ASP Autism Works Partner of the Year, while pianist Christian Borromeo earned the ASP Autism Angel Achievement Award for Performing Arts.
The stage came alive with performances from young talents on the spectrum. Quentin captivated the audience with a rendition of South Border’s “Rainbow,” joined by his mother, Candy Pangilinan, along with Carmina Villaroel and Gelli and Janice de Belen. The entire arena joined in as Pepe Herrera covered Maki’s song “Dilaw.” ASP Goodwill Ambassador Michelle Dee also shone brightly with her debut single, “Reina.”
Support from Celebrities and Advocates
The event attracted numerous well-known personalities who showed their support, including Melanie Marquez, Sam Panlilio, siblings Arjo and Ria Atayde, Vivoree Esclito, and more. Ria Atayde, attending for the first time, shared, “It’s nice that I’m seeing that there’s a lot of allies that rally after the autism community and it’s nice to be invited and be part of it.” She expressed her commitment to raising awareness and advocating for laws benefiting the autism community.
Sam Panlilio, Binibining Pilipinas Grand International 2021, has participated in the event three times. She described the occasion as “always grand, it’s always good and inspirational… your angels are growing and you are being celebrated.” She encouraged continuous conversation, saying, “Keep talking about it. Normalize it. They deserve it and so much more.”
SM Cares’ Commitment to Inclusion
According to Richard Caluyo of SM Cares, the Angels Walk is more than an annual event—it is a core part of SM’s advocacy for inclusivity. “Sobrang natutuwa kami because we see that a lot of people are not just trying to be aware of the situation na marami tayong mga kababayang may autism, but they’re here to show support and love, and to show appreciation that these people exist because they also matter and are productive citizens of our community,” he said.
He added that the event is embedded in their yearly plans and is a paid program supporting persons with disabilities to celebrate those with autism. Beyond the walk, SM Cares continues to promote inclusive employment and will hold emergency preparedness forums for persons with disabilities and senior citizens this year. They will also launch social media awareness campaigns in partnership with the Autism Society Philippines.
Caluyo emphasized, “Gusto nating iparamdam sa kanila na that this is a safe place for them. Hindi sila dapat mahiya at matakot because our employees and frontliners are equipped on how to assist people with autism.”
Nationwide Celebrations
The Angels Walk for Autism 2025 was also held simultaneously in various SM malls across Bacolod, Baguio, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and other cities, further expanding its reach and impact.
This remarkable event reflects growing awareness and support for the autism community, inspiring many to embrace inclusivity and empowerment.
For more news and updates on autism advocacy, visit Filipinokami.com.