SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity during National Disability Rights Week 2025 through a series of initiatives designed to uplift, empower and celebrate persons with disabilities (PWDs).
The weeklong celebration, held across multiple SM malls nationwide, emphasized the right of every individual to dignity, opportunity and equal access to spaces and services. SM Cares hosted signature events and advocacy programs focused on resilience and education.
A major highlight was the Angels Walk for Autism, held in partnership with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), which drew over 40,000 participants to the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The event served as a powerful display of unity, awareness and acceptance for individuals on the autism spectrum.
SM Cares also hosted the Happy Walk for Down Syndrome nationwide, in collaboration with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines (DSAPI). This event honored the unique talents and contributions of individuals with Down Syndrome, reinforcing the importance of their inclusion and visibility.
Additionally, the Emergency Preparedness Forum, an ongoing SM Cares initiative, continued to equip senior citizens and persons with disabilities with vital knowledge. Participants received disaster-readiness training to enhance their personal resilience in times of crisis.
SM Cares also conducted Sensitivity Training for mall front-liners and staff to ensure all customers, regardless of ability, receive empathetic, respectful and high-quality service.
Beyond events, SM Supermalls maintains physically accessible facilities, including Braille signage at elevators, accessible parking, wheelchair lifts, dedicated restrooms for persons with disabilities and trained mall personnel. These are permanent features reflecting the company’s investment in barrier-free environments.
As part of its ongoing commitment, SM Cares will host two more events for persons with disabilities in August 2025 — Movies for the Blind at SM Megamall on 2 August and The Blackout Zone, an immersive awareness activity, at SM North EDSA from 25 to 29 August. Both events aim to foster empathy and provide accessible experiences for all participants.
“At SM Cares, we believe that creating a truly inclusive world begins with listening, learning, and walking alongside the people we serve,” said Steven Tan, SM Supermalls president. “National Disability Rights Week is more than a commemoration — it’s a call to action to build a kinder, more accessible future.”
The public is invited to participate in SM Cares’ annual advocacy programs to promote awareness, understanding and support for the PWD community.