2,800 individuals join the “Angels Walk for Autism” in Cebu, spotlights talents of youth on the spectrum

CEBU CITY –The “Angels Walk for Autism” in Cebu organized by the Autism Society Philippines (ASP)-Cebu Chapter on April 27 at the SM Seaside City Cebu spotlighted the culture, arts initiative and the creative abilities of youth on the spectrum showcasing the success of its flagship program dubbed as ‘ASP ARTismo’ and to call to action in building an Autism-OK Cebu with the theme, “COLORS.” 

“ASP ARTismo” shows the culture and arts initiative and the creative abilities of youth on the spectrum, transforming art into a powerful tool for self-expression and promoting artistic careers. Talented musicians with autism entertained the audience with a mini concert performed by the Spectrum Band, a group of self-taught young individuals with autism who are musically gifted in singing, drums, guitar, piano and some flair for theatre.

“Today’s Angels Walk for Autism is a celebration of leadership, talents and creativity of individuals on the spectrum.  We are shining a spotlight on their unique abilities and the significant contributions they make our society. We walk and walk together toward a more inclusive and sustainable future for all,” ASP-Cebu Chapter President, Rosa Edna Hubahib said in her opening message at the event.

Hubahib said that ASP-Angels Walk celebrates the success of the Autism Society Philippines flagship programs like ‘ARTismo’ which provides individuals on the spectrum with a platform to showcase their artistic talents through art as a form of self-expression.  

The Walk and the celebration centered around the shared vision of amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities to create an inclusive and sustainable future for them. The event brought to the fore the artistry, talents, and achievements of individuals on the autism spectrum, Hubahib added.

Hubahib also bared that the ASP Autism Works is another ASP program that empowers individuals on the autism spectrum through sustainable economic opportunities, including employment, entrepreneurship, and freelance work. “We also want to highlight the employability of these talented youth on the spectrum,” she added.

Cebu continues to unite for autism

The ASP Angels Walk for Autism has grown significantly since its inception in 2000, with over 27 cities participating in previous years. The people of Cebu have come together for a local ASP Angels Walk for Autism for the last 10 years.

In 2024, more than 27,000 attendees joined simultaneous walks across major cities, including Pasay, Bacolod, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and Lucena. This annual event raises awareness and fosters a sense of community, advocating for the rights and inclusion of persons on the autism spectrum in all aspects of society.

The Cebu leg of this nationwide movement brought some 2,800 people this year, composed of children, parents, academe, government and non-government institutions joining the walk from the Mountain Wing Atrium through key areas of the mall and concluded at the Cube Wing where the program followed and the event is in partnership with SM Cares.

Included in the program was a ceremonial turnover of nine wheelchairs from the Department of Health (DOH) and ASP-Cebu to SM Seaside City Cebu, in recognition of the mall's longstanding support and commitment to promoting autism awareness, inclusion, and empowerment.

“We at SM Prime are deeply honored to be part of this movement.  It’s truly inspiring to see so many people come together for such a meaningful cause,” SM Prime Holdings. Inc. Executive Chairman Committee, Hans Sy said in a virtual message.

As a trusted partner of the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), SM Supermalls continues to pave the way for inclusive mall experiences.  The Angels Walk for Autism is one of several key initiatives under SM Cares’ Program.

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) has grown to an astonishing 13,000 members across 103 chapters in the country. The ASP Angels Walk for Autism is a powerful platform for the celebration of Filipinos on the autism spectrum and the call for acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation — impactful action beyond awareness.

“ASP wants to establish institutional mechanisms to support neurodiversity in persons and their families. Let’s continue to celebrate an incredible potential within the Autism spectrum. Together, let's walk and paint the world with the colors of inclusion,” Hubahib concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman)