By Dang Koe
The ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2025 brought together thousands of advocates, families, organizations, and individuals from across the Philippines in an inspiring show of support for the autism community. A total of 41,000 people participated in this year’s celebration — a landmark achievement that reflects the growing awareness and collective action towards autism inclusion nationwide.
Record-Breaking Reach. In April, 10 Autism Society Philippines (ASP) chapters held their local Angels Walks in the cities of Baguio, Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, Lipa, Lucena, Butuan, Malaybalay, Tuguegarao, and Iloilo, drawing a combined crowd of over 10,000 participants.
These regional events culminated in the flagship ASP Angels Walk, held on May 18 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, which over 31,000 advocates attended. The event was supported by SM Cares, with nine chapters also hosted by SM Supermalls in their respective regions, reaffirming our continued partnership towards diversity, inclusion, and empowerment.
Growing Communities. This year’s events saw a significant rise in participation nationwide. Several chapters, including Baguio, Tuguegarao, and Cebu, noted increased support from local governments, NGOs, schools, therapy centers, and private partners. Notably, Tuguegarao’s debut event tripled its expected attendance, and Cebu drew the largest crowd with over 2,500 participants. Collaboration with organizations like JCI and consistent backing from SM Supermalls were key to the turnout.
Growing Communities. This year’s events saw a significant rise in participation nationwide. Several chapters, including Baguio, Tuguegarao, and Cebu, noted increased support from local governments, NGOs, schools, therapy centers, and private partners. Notably, Tuguegarao’s debut event tripled its expected attendance, and Cebu drew the largest crowd with over 2,500 participants. Collaboration with organizations like JCI and consistent backing from SM Supermalls were key to the turnout.
Engaged Volunteers. Events became more dynamic and inclusive through improved production and community contributions. Volunteers played key roles across chapters, from distributing materials to organizing logistics. Parents were tapped for their talents in hosting, PR, and event coordination, while individuals on the spectrum took center stage as performers, enhancing inclusivity and impact.
Optimizing Humble Resources. Chapters like Iloilo emphasized the value of shared resources, structured guidance from the ASP National Office, and cross-chapter learning. These centralized efforts helped ensure consistency, smoother execution, and empowered local organizers.
Vibrant Allies. Several chapters saw turnouts far exceeding expectations. Bacolod welcomed over 1,600 attendees, exceeding the anticipated 600. Longtime sponsors stepped up their contributions, notably providing snacks and logistical support, thereby reinforcing their ongoing commitment that dates back years.
Collective Success. The ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2025 was a nationwide affirmation of solidarity, diversity, and shared purpose between our interconnected community of 106 chapters nationwide. Through continued collaboration among chapters, long-time and new partners, government agencies, and volunteers, ASP continues to lead the way in shaping an autism-inclusive Philippines.
The Autism Society Philippines sends its heartfelt thanks to all its chapters, partners, and advocates who made this year’s Angels Walk such a meaningful and memorable event. Because of your efforts, every step we took brought us closer to a more inclusive future. Together, we continue to move forward—stronger, united, and full of hope.
Dang Koe is the Chair Emerita of Autism Society Philippines (ASP). She is a well-known advocate for autism inclusion in the Philippines and in the region. She was the winner of the inaugural ASEAN Prize in 2019 and has served as the country’s representative on the board of the ASEAN Autism Network (AAN).
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