LUCENA CITY, Quezon — Hundreds of participants gathered at SM City Lucena on April 26 for the successful staging of ASP Angel’s Walk 2026, an annual advocacy event promoting awareness, acceptance, and inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum.

The program was led by representatives from Autism Society Philippines – Lucena Chapter together with community volunteers, families, and mall officials, including Engr. John Jason Terrenal of SM Supermalls. Parents, advocates, and children with autism joined a symbolic walk inside the mall to show solidarity and support for a more inclusive society.

The event featured a festive parade, inspirational messages, and activities that celebrated the unique talents and strengths of persons with autism. For many families, such gatherings offer more than visibility—they create a sense of belonging in spaces where misunderstanding or stigma may still exist.

Angel’s Walk also reflects a growing shift in public awareness. More communities are beginning to understand that autism is not something to be feared or hidden, but a neurodevelopmental condition that calls for compassion, accommodation, and equal opportunity. Inclusion means recognizing ability, not merely focusing on limitations.

However, awareness campaigns also invite a deeper conversation. While public events are meaningful, many families still face daily challenges involving access to therapy, inclusive education, employment opportunities, and affordable support systems. True acceptance is measured not only by applause during events, but by policies and practices that empower people year-round.

The participation of malls and private institutions is also significant, showing that public spaces can become platforms for social change when opened to advocacy and accessibility.

Angel’s Walk is a celebration—but it is also a reminder.

If society celebrates inclusion for one day, are we equally committed to practicing it every other day of the year?

(Larawan mula: Quezon Chronos Online / Facebook)