MANILA — More than 30,000 attendees flocked to the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Sunday morning to join the Autism Society Philippines' (ASP) Angels Walk for Autism 2025, an annual event promoting awareness and inclusion for individuals on the spectrum.

According to ASP, about 1.2 million Filipinos, or one in every 100, are living with autism.

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Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP’s national spokesperson and known on social media as Mighty Magulang, said the event will showcase the artistic talents of individuals on the spectrum.

“Ito po ay simbolo na gusto rin namin lumabas, gusto rin namin makita. Ang mga taong may autism at mga pamilya nila (ay) hindi dapat nakakulong sa bahay na mahihiya at may agam-agam na hindi sila maiintindihan ng lipunan,” said Veluz.

(This event is a symbol that we also want to be seen, we want to go out. People with autism and their families shouldn’t be confined at home, ashamed or hesitant out of fear that society won’t understand them.)

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One of the performers, Cid Tampo from ASP’s Iloilo chapter, prepared a song that sheds light on the challenges and aspirations of people living with autism.

“I am excited and I want to share my talent and advocacy… (that) there is nothing to fear about autism,” said Tampo.

Familiar faces from showbiz, including Carmina Villarroel, Kai Montinola, Vivoree, Gelli de Belen, Janice de Belen, and Pepe Herrera were spotted at the venue.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros will also be honored during the program for her legislative efforts in support of the autism community.