Step Forward for Inclusion: Happy Walk 2025 Unites Communities Nationwide

This March 30, 2025, thousands of families, advocates, and supporters will come together to celebrate Happy Walk 2025, a nationwide movement dedicated to fostering awareness, inclusion, and empowerment for individuals with Down Syndrome.

Hosted by SM Cares in partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), this year’s event will take place at SMX Convention Center – Manila with simultaneous celebrations at SM City Cebu, SM City Bacolod, and SM CDO Downtown Premier, making it a truly nationwide effort to highlight the abilities and aspirations of individuals with Down Syndrome.

SM Cares & DSAPI Celebrate Diversity and Unite Communities through Happy Talk 2025

SM Southmall came alive as SM Cares and the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) hosted the second edition of Happy Talk: Usapang Down Syndrome 2025. The event gathered over 600 participants, including government officials, educators, therapists, and community stakeholders, to raise awareness and create safer, more inclusive spaces for individuals with Down syndrome.

"Through Happy Talk, we are reminded that inclusion is not just about understanding—it’s about action. Every shared story and effort brings us closer to a world where individuals with Down syndrome are embraced and celebrated," said Luis M. Harder, President of DSAPI.

SM Cares, DSAPI promote inclusion, acceptance through Down Syndrome education

SM Cares and Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) recently held a seminar with the aim of educating people on Down Syndrome as part of their goal of promoting better inclusion and acceptance for individuals living with the condition. The seminar was held last October 19 at SM City Sucat in Paranaque City.

Titled "Understanding Down Syndrome: A Sensitivity Seminar," the seminar was designed to educate participants about Down Syndrome, while promoting sensitivity and understanding, and supporting families and individuals living with the condition.

Happy Walk 2024 at SM: Celebrating Inclusivity for our Natatanging Nilalang

Join Happy Walk, an annual celebration with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines and SM Cares, on March 24 at SM Mall of Asia Complex, SM City Cebu and SM City Bacolod.

Since its inception in 2003, Happy Walk has been synonymous with spreading joy, raising awareness, and fostering inclusivity for individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. What started as a humble gathering has grown into an annual program in various parts of the country, thanks to the unwavering support of SM Cares and the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines.

SM Cares reiterates support for "mga Natatanging Nilalang" at 2023 Happy Walk for Down Syndrome led by DSAPI

A security guard poses with one of the ‘Natatanging Nilalang’
kids during the Happy Walk celebration at SM City Bacolod.

"Today, we express our love once again to our special friends in our midst. Today, we show that we care about their well-being. Today, we show that we shall always walk in solidarity to ensure that they have a bright future."

This was one of the key points of SM Cares Program Director for Persons with Disabilities, Engr. Bien Mateo's speech at the 2023 Happy Walk for Down Syndrome of the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI); which took place last February 26 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City.