SM & ASP Champion Change for an #AutismOKPH Future

(Top left photo) 330 strong advocates, friends, and changemakers came together to celebrate, learn, and build an inclusive Philippines for all. (Top right photo) ASP Board, SM Cares, Government Officials, and Autism Advocates came together at AOK Pilipinas Live! to dismantle barriers and build a brighter future for Filipinos on the spectrum. (2nd row below left photo) In the second part, Actress / Screenwriter Candy Pangilinan was joined by actress Gladys Reyes, a singer-songwriter from the band Splendio Tritus Nicolle Ferrer, and former Bb. Pilipinas World Janina San Miguel to talk about the importance of family in fostering awareness and education for people with autism. (2nd row below right photo) SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs Engr. Bien Mateo emphasized SM’s commitment to giving equal access and opportunities to individuals with diverse needs, including those on the autism spectrum. (Below photo) The first part of the program saw a panel discussion about making laws for Autism in OK Philippines. It was attended by Philippine Government Officials: Hon. Risa Hontiveros, Senator; Hon. Koko Pimentel, Senator; and Hon. Paul Daza, Congressman (Contributed Photo)

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) and SM Cares, in partnership with the National Council on Disability Affairs, celebrated National Autism Consciousness Week with the AOK Pilipinas Live 2024, a live special of the monthly web show discussing pressing topics regarding autism.

The forum was held on January 26, Friday, at SM City North EDSA.

SM is a staunch supporter of the autism community. Its partnership with ASP is part of an ongoing program to cultivate safe spaces and ensure its mall facilities remain accessible to all. Aside from facilitating Sensitivity Training for its frontliners, SM will be supporting Autism Society Philippines with the latest leg of the Angels Walk for Autism by April. ### (PR)