LIPA CITY, Batangas – MORE than 400 individuals came together at SM City Lipa for the 2025 Angels Walk for Autism, a heartwarming event that brought together families, educators, local officials, and advocates to celebrate Autism Awareness Month in a meaningful and joyful way.
Hosted in partnership with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), SM Supermalls, and SM Cares, the event showcased the strength, resilience, and talents of individuals on the autism spectrum. In her opening remarks, SM Lipa Assistant Mall Manager Ms. Nira Arcega set the tone for the celebration:
“Today, we walk hand in hand with the Autism Society Philippines, celebrating the strength, resilience, and unity of their community. This event is a testament to our unwavering commitment to making SM Supermalls a place where everyone is seen, heard, and included.”
Children and young adults from different schools across Batangas filled the mall with joy and color, proudly taking the stage to perform dances, sing songs, play musical instruments, and exhibit their artwork. Each performance and creation served as a reminder that individuals with autism possess unique gifts worth recognizing and celebrating.
The event was graced by prominent figures in the advocacy space, including ASP National President L-Jay Sulong, ASP Lipa Chapter President Ms. Mary Anne Elpedes, Lipa City Division Superintendent Felizardo O. Bolanos, CESO V, Councilor Spye Toledo, and Lipa City Vice Mayor Camille Lopez. All expressed their unwavering support for autism awareness and the importance of creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals.
While SM Supermalls President Steven Tan and SM Prime Holdings Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy could not attend in person, both shared heartfelt video messages reaffirming SM’s dedication to inclusivity. Their messages reflected SM’s long-standing commitment to creating safe and welcoming spaces for all, especially individuals with autism and other special needs.
The program concluded with a vibrant and emotional unity walk around the mall, with participants waving banners and proudly wearing symbolic green shirts as a show of support for the autism community.
Adding an extra sparkle to the event, actress Katrina Halili made a special appearance with her daughter, bringing smiles and delight to the crowd and further highlighting the family-oriented nature of the celebration.
With Angels Walk for Autism 2025, SM City Lipa and its partners once again proved that when a community comes together with compassion and purpose, inclusion is not just a dream – it becomes a reality lived and felt by all.
About the Author
