ASP ANGELS WALK FOR AUTISM REACHES NEW HEIGHTS

Pasay City, Philippines – The 2025 Angels Walk for Autism, an annual advocacy event organized by the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) in partnership with SM Cares, successfully returned to the iconic SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, May 18, 2025.

This year’s walk in Pasay drew 30,433 registrants, in a powerful celebration that spotlighted the transformative role of art in the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum.

“This year’s Angels Walk is a testament to our community’s enduring spirit and our collective vision for a society that embraces our children’s uniqueness,” shared Lorenzo Sumulong III, ASP National President. “We are grateful for the ever-growing circle of allies that help us sow acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation.”

The Angels Walk for Autism 2025 crowd 

The 2025 theme, “Mahusay. Masaya. Makulay,” highlighted ASP’s ARTismo program and emphasized the importance of creative expression as a tool for communication, sensory exploration, and economic empowerment for persons on the autism spectrum.

Aside from our vibrant community, we were joined by SM executives led by Hans Sy, NCDA Executive Director Glenda Relova, QC Congressman Arjo Atayde, ASP Goodwill Ambassador Michelle Dee, Melanie Marquez, Samantha Panlilio, Ria Atayde, JTC Chair Jaime Cruz, Dohtonbori President Kim Cruz, among many other prominent allies. The leadership of professional organizations like the Philippine Society of Behavioral and Developmental Pediatrics and the Philippine Association of Speech Language Pathologists were also on hand to celebrate with us.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of prestigious awards recognizing individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to autism inclusion and welfare:

• Senator Risa Hontiveros received the HTS Leadership Award for her continued legislative efforts supporting the autism community.

• ARTipolo, a community art advocate group, was honored as ASP Autism Works Partner of the Year for their role in empowering creatives on the spectrum.

• Christian Borromeo, a gifted pianist on the spectrum, received the ASP Autism Angel Achievement Award for Performing Arts, showcasing the incredible talents within the community.

The program also introduced the newly elected ASP Board of Trustees and self-advocate representatives, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to inclusive leadership and representation.

A spectacular talent further underscored the power of the arts in autism advocacy. Performers on the spectrum—Quentin Alvarado, Danica Escasinas, Peggy Geiser, Grey Roxas, Cid Tampo, ASP A-Pop Boys, ILLC All-Star Crew, and Splendio Tritus—shared the stage with celebrity allies such as Gellie de Belen, Janice de Belen, Pepe Herrera, Kai Montinola, Candy Pangilinan, Jade Riccio, SAB, LA Santos, Carmina Villarroel, Vivoree, and the NU Dance Crew. A special appearance by ASP Goodwill Ambassador Michelle Dee further amplified the message of unity and inclusion.

According to Engr. Bien Mateo, SM SVP and Program Director for Disability Affairs, the Angels Walk has grown nationwide. In 2025, Angel Walks for Autism were held across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, including Bacolod, Baguio, Butuan, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Lipa, Lucena, Malaybalay and Tuguegarao. The Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay continued its legacy of hosting the largest walk, following last year’s record-breaking attendance of approximately 22,000 participants.

The successful event was made possible by the support of key partners, including the Mall of Asia Arena, SM Mall of Asia, the National Council on Disability Affairs, RMA Studio Academy, the ASEAN Autism Network, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2025 was more than just a gathering—it was a declaration of purpose, a celebration of potential, and a united step toward building an Autism-OK Philippines where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.