Thousands gather for 21st Happy Walk in celebration of World Down Syndrome Day at the SMX Convention Center, March 24, 2024. Addie Cuadra, ABS-CBN News

MANILA -- Thousands of participants gathered in celebration of World Down Syndrome day at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on Sunday. 

Around 4,000 individuals with Down Syndrome, accompanied by their families and supporters, attended the event. Similar festivities took place simultaneously at SM Cebu and SM Bacolod. 

Chad Caluyo, Assistant Vice President of SM Cares, expressed the significance of the event and highlighted its alignment with SM’s commitment to inclusivity and extended gratitude to their partners from the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DASPI). Caluyo shared that the event is part of their campaign to be the “mall for all.” 

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“Itong Happy Walk 2024 ay annual natin na celebration. Kasabay ito ng World Down Syndrome Day, and this activity is a celebration of love and inclusion sa ating SM Supermalls. This is a celebration of the way of embracing and sharing the love of our partners from the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI),” Caluyo said. 

The attendance surpassed their expectations, according to Caluyo, as the turnout exceeded 5,000 participants. He attributed the success not only to DSAPI members but also the broader community, including customers and visitors from nearby provinces.

Caluyo also encouraged everyone to engage in their activities promoting inclusivity: "Iniimbitahan namin ang lahat to participate in all the activities related to inclusivity."

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