Before the music swelled and the confetti flew, before the crowd of 40,000 gathered beneath the glowing lights of the SM Mall of Asia Arena, there was just a blank canvas—waiting to be filled in support of the Autism Society Philippines.
For the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), that canvas represents something bigger than any single event. It’s the unfinished picture of a nation still learning how to listen, still learning how to love its neurodiverse children not in spite of their differences, but because of them. And every year, during the Angels Walk for Autism, the brushstrokes get bolder.
In 2025, the walk became more than a gathering. It became a gallery of lived expression—a movement painted in motion.
Art as Language, Art as Power
At the center of this year’s advocacy was ASP ARTismo, ASP’s culture and arts platform that provides individuals on the autism spectrum with the tools to create, communicate, and, crucially, be recognized.
For many who live with autism, art is more than a hobby. It’s a lifeline, a mirror, a declaration. It’s where hands can say what mouths cannot, and where stories live in color instead of paragraphs.
Programs like ASP ARTismo: Kanto-Kanto have brought this vision to street corners and barangays across the Philippines. Here, young artists paint with intention—sometimes geometric, often emotional—always their own. The initiative has given rise not only to exhibitions and collaborations with groups like NEO Office Philippines but also to moments of quiet triumph: a child seeing their artwork in a gallery for the first time. A teen discovering that their painting can earn income. A parent realizing their child is more than a diagnosis—they are an artist.
Advocacy Amplified by Allies
The Angels Walk for Autism 2025 drew together a powerful chorus of support from the entertainment community. Leading the charge was Michelle Dee, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 and ASP Goodwill Ambassador, whose advocacy is deeply rooted in her personal connection to autism. Her presence brought national attention and heartfelt commitment to the cause.
She was joined by prominent artists and—well-loved figures who have long stood in support of inclusive causes. In a poignant show of solidarity, RMA talents Jade Riccio, Pepe Herrera, Vivoree Esclito, and Sab Cerrado performed a moving duet with ASP’s homegrown artists—highlighting the power of collaboration and shared expression.
Honoring Change-Makers
This year’s walk also served as a platform to recognize advocates and institutions helping pave the road toward inclusion. Senator Risa Hontiveros received the HTS Leadership Award for Autism Inclusion and Welfare, honoring her legislative work in championing the rights of individuals on the spectrum.
Art collective ARTipolo was named ASP Autism Works Partner of the Year for opening creative and economic opportunities for neurodiverse artists. And Christian Borromeo, a gifted pianist on the spectrum, was awarded the ASP Autism Angel Achievement Award for Performing Arts, reminding all in attendance of the extraordinary talents that thrive when nurtured.
A Movement Across Islands
The walk, of course, took place not just in Pasay but across the country—from Cebu to Davao, Baguio to Bacolod. SM Supermalls hosted simultaneous Angels Walks in major cities, creating a nationwide chorus of inclusion. Each step taken echoed the same message: we walk together, so that no one is left behind.
Engr. Bien Mateo, SVP and Program Director for Disability Affairs at SM, reflected on the movement’s growth: “We started with small walks. Now, we’re marching across the country. Our commitment to the autism community grows because the journey is all of ours.”
ASP also introduced its newly elected board of trustees and self-advocate representatives, emphasizing the importance of representation and lived experience at the heart of leadership.
The Road Ahead
To walk for autism is to believe in a future that welcomes everyone. A future where children are not sidelined for being different, but celebrated for their brilliance. Where art becomes a form of advocacy. And where performance is not about applause—but about being heard.
So we walk. For the artists. For the parents. For the teachers learning a new language of empathy. We walk so that one day, no one has to walk alone.
To support ASP ARTismo or join the advocacy for an Autism-OK Philippines, visit www.autismsocietyphilippines.org and follow @autismphils on social media.
