SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations Engr. Junias Eusebio, ASP Chair Emerita Dang Koe, ASP's Goodwill Ambassador Michelle Dee, ASP National Spokesperson Mona Magno-Veluz, and ASP Self-Advocates Circle VP for Communication Pia Cabanero. (Photo by Dexter R. Matilla)
Advocates have renewed calls for the passage of autism legislation to support some 1 in 100 Filipinos on the autism spectrum as momentum builds toward the nationwide Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Angels Walk for Autism 2026.
Current legislation seeks to institutionalize access to services, strengthen coordinated support systems, and ensure lifelong inclusion for Filipinos on the autism spectrum, addressing gaps in education, healthcare, employment, and community support. At least 26 counterpart measures remain pending in the House of Representatives’ Committee on Health as of this writing.
“The government has made strides for the disability sector, but there remains an opportunity to further strengthen public services for the autism community. Filipinos on the spectrum and their families will benefit from responsive systems and policies that promote acceptance, provide meaningful accommodations, and celebrate their strengths—enabling them to fully thrive,” said Mona Magno-Veluz, National Spokesperson of the ASP. “We need a government with a plan to address the needs of our growing and aging community, from the national government to the LGUs.”
The call comes as the ASP, in partnership with SM Cares, prepares to mobilize more than 40,000 participants nationwide for the ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2026, one of the largest movements for autism inclusion.
Advocates said inclusion must go beyond awareness and translate into real opportunities through inclusive education systems, accessible employment, and stronger collaboration between public and private sectors. “It is important to sustain efforts that improve the well-being of Filipinos on the autism spectrum,” said Engr. Junias Eusebio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations. “Working hand in hand with the government and organizations like the ASP, we build disability-inclusive spaces and make equitable employment possible so those on the spectrum can thrive."
Filipino actress, model, and advocate Michelle Dee also underscored the need for sustained support systems that enable independence and meaningful participation in society. "Responsive autism policy strengthens families by reducing everyday barriers. It shifts the narrative from dependence to empowerment—equipping families with the tools, opportunities, and dignity,” said Dee, ASP’s Goodwill Ambassador. “Inclusion means making sure they are seen, supported, and not left to do this alone.”
The ASP Angels Walk for Autism, a long-running initiative of ASP, has grown into a nationwide platform for advocacy and action, bringing together communities across Metro Manila, Bacolod, Baguio, Butuan, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Lipa, Lucena, Olongapo, Tuguegarao, and Virac. This year’s iteration will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 7 am and will spotlight talents on the spectrum while championing inclusion and advancing the vision of an Autism-OK Philippines where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.
“Since it began in 2000, the ASP Angels Walk for Autism has always carried hope,” said ASP Chair Emerita Dang Koe. “But hope must evolve into — not just awareness or acceptance — but action.”
0 Comments