SM City Bacolod will be hosting an Angels Walk for Autism this Sunday, January 26, in observance of National Autism Consciousness Week. The event will also be taking place across the country at other SM Malls including the SM Mall of Asia, SM City Cebu, SM City Davao, among other locations.
The Autism Society Philippines and the Happy Beginners School of Learning will lead the event in Bacolod City, which also includes a program featuring talks and a talent presentation.
“The awareness is there and we need to turn that into acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation,” explained behavioral and developmental pediatrician Dr. Mark Anthony Talatala. “At the Angels Walk, we also applaud and campaign for businesses, workplaces, and laws that extend compassion and opportunities for those with autism.”
Meanwhile, Wendy Arroyo, who heads the local Autism Society Philippines chapter, said, “Throughout the years, we have celebrated the strong family bonds that have helped those with autism find their strengths, capabilities, and talents where they can shine and succeed..”
The Angels Walk has been taking place annually since 2007 and has grown from 200 participants nationwide in 2007 to 24,000.
For more information, please visit the Autism Society Philippines website at autismsocietyphilippines.org. (PR)