Angels Walk for Autism set in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines —  The autism community in Cebu City is set to gather for the annual Angels Walk for Autism today, April 26, 2026, at SM Seaside City Cebu, in a continuing effort to promote inclusion and awareness for persons with autism.

Organized by the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Cebu Chapter, the event will be held simultaneously with similar walks in key locations across the country, including Metro Manila. The activity aims to foster acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation of persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The in-mall parade is expected to draw persons with autism, along with their families, teachers, therapists, students, volunteers, and advocates from both the public and private sectors. Organizers said the event serves as a platform to highlight the abilities and achievements of individuals on the autism spectrum while reinforcing the call for an “Autism-OK Philippines.”

Beyond the symbolic walk, ASP emphasized that the initiative is also a call to action for stronger public awareness, increased private sector participation, and the integration of autism-related concerns into government social development programs.

ASP, a national non-profit organization founded in 1989, continues to advocate for the empowerment of persons with autism, aiming to help them become self-reliant, productive, and socially-accepted members of society. The group has since expanded to thousands of members across more than a hundred chapters nationwide.

While existing laws such as the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities and the Inclusive Education Law provide protection and support, ASP stressed the need to further address the specific needs of persons with autism.

These include early developmental assessments, inclusive education, community-based rehabilitation, and workplace sensitivity training.

Among its key programs is Autism Works, which promotes employment opportunities for persons with autism by partnering with companies and providing necessary training to both employees and employers.

The group clarified that Autism Spectrum Disorder is a lifelong developmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction, and is not a disease. Individuals with autism may experience varying levels of sensitivity and require different types of support depending on their needs.

Event organizers said registration for this year’s Angels Walk is free. Participants are expected to assemble at the Mountain Wing Main Lobby of SM Seaside at 9 A.M., with the walk scheduled from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M., followed by a program featuring performances by individuals on the autism spectrum.

The event is held in partnership with SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, as part of broader efforts to promote inclusive communities and social awareness. — (FREEMAN)