Raising awareness for an inclusive and genuinely accepting world must continue to be prioritized, especially by those who were given a platform to influence others.

With this in mind, SM Cares has provided an opportunity for its patrons a glimpse into the lives of the deaf and blind through The Blackout Zone.

The exhibit affords people the opportunity to know how the blind go about their daily lives like preparing food or even watching a movie. Participants are briefed on what to expect inside the exhibit before being blindfolded and provided with a walking stick.

Among the activities included buttering bread and making coffee, tying a shoe, watching a film, and feeling their way through the exhibit without the sense of sight.

Angela Camins Wieneke of SM Cares said the initiative started when their leaders wanted to make the experience more accessible to the public.

While the exhibit was only opened for a short time at SM Southmall, the organization aims to reopen next year.

"We're looking forward to expanding this program, whether 2023 or onwards. With this first run and a great reception from the visitors, so far. We're more confident that this will be well-received in many more communities," Wieneke said.

Visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares for more information and for updates.