In
celebration of National Autism Consciousness Week, SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism
Society Philippines (ASP), and GMA Pictures partnered to host a successful
sensory-friendly screening of the award-winning film "Firefly" on
January 17, 2025. Over 2,000 participants across 10 SM malls, including
children on the autism spectrum and their families, enjoyed a heartwarming and
inclusive movie experience.
"Tuwing
pumapasok kami sa mga SM malls, damang-dama namin acceptance, accomodation, and
appreciation. It is the norm here," said Autism Society Philippines (ASP)
Chair Emerita Dang Uy Koe.
A
child on the autism spectrum shares a smile with their loved one during the
sensory-friendly screening of "Firefly" at SM Southmall.
SM
Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines, and GMA Pictures join forces to
bring a sensory-friendly screening of "Firefly" to children on the
autism spectrum and their families at SM North EDSA Cinema.
“Firefly” stars Alessandra De Rossi (right)
and Euwenn Mikaell (left) grace the sensory-friendly screening at SM North EDSA
Cinema.
Creating a welcoming space
The "Lights
Up, Sounds Down" event went beyond entertainment. By adjusting lights and
volume, creating a relaxed atmosphere, and allowing for movement and
vocalizations, the screening catered to the specific needs of attendees on the
autism spectrum. This empowered them to enjoy the movie at their own pace and
comfort level.
Autism
Society Philippines (ASP) National Spokesperson Mona Magno-Veluz shares a
message in a video celebrating National Autism Consciousness Week.
A
heartwarming moment captured at the sensory-friendly screening of 'Firefly' at
SM City Olongapo Central, where families enjoyed a welcoming and inclusive
movie experience.
"At
SM Supermalls, we firmly believe that creating spaces where every individual
feels valued, respected, and included is a responsibility we hold dearly.
This is a way of life here," said SM Cares Program Director for Disability
Affairs Engr. Bien Mateo.
The
guests experience the magic of "Firefly" at the sensory-friendly
screening in SM City Telabastagan, Pampanga.
An
invited guest is captivated by the sensory-friendly screening at SM City
Marikina.
A boy
enjoys the special screening and shows respect and gratitude with a traditional
'mano po' at SM City Cebu.
Ongoing
commitment
Positive
feedback from families echoed the event's success. Many expressed appreciation
for the inclusive environment, highlighting the joy and comfort it provided.
This powerful experience underscores the importance of catering to the autism
community's needs.
SM Cares: Championing inclusion
A commitment to inclusivity requires
ongoing effort. SM demonstrates this by investing in employee training programs
to better support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Additionally,
SM Cinema prioritizes accessibility features within their theaters, creating a
welcoming environment for all guests.
SM Cares is the
Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, with programs that
support communities, promote social inclusion, and care for the environment.
Aside from the program on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), its advocacies
include Programs for the Environment, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children
and Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.
To learn more,
visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.
No comments:
Post a Comment