Step Forward for Inclusion: Happy Walk 2025 Unites Communities Nationwide

Two Happy Walkers take small, but meaningful steps with support and fanfare from the SM community.

A national effort to promote awareness, inclusion, and empowerment for people with Down syndrome, Happy Walk 2025 will bring together thousands of families, advocates, and supporters on March 30, 2025.

This year's event, which is being hosted by SM Cares in collaboration with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), will be held at the SMX Convention Center – Manila. Simultaneous celebrations will be held at SM City Cebu, SM City Bacolod, and SM CDO Downtown Premier, ensuring that the event is a truly national endeavor to showcase the abilities and goals of people with Down syndrome.

More Than Just a Walk: A Movement for Inclusion

Happy Walk has been a potent movement that celebrates the abilities, contributions, and qualities of people with Down syndrome for more than 20 years.  Communities join together to celebrate not only differences but also common goals and aspirations on this day of joy, acceptance, and unity.

“Happy Walk is not just about taking steps; it’s about making a difference. Every year, this event brings people together to reaffirm that individuals with Down Syndrome deserve the same opportunities, recognition, and support as everyone else. It is a celebration of abilities, not limitations.” ~Nill Patrick Arroyo, DSAPI Board Member & Head, Happy Walk 2025.

Participants come together to show love and support for individuals with Down Syndrome

With the involvement of thousands of volunteers, this event is now more than just a walk—it’s a movement for change.

A Nationwide Call for Participation

Happy Walk 2025, with the theme "321 & Beyond," is anticipated to attract thousands of participants, including volunteers, educators, corporate partners, inclusion advocates, and people with Down syndrome and their families.  Performances, motivational tales, and community-building projects are just a few of the events that will highlight the value of diversity in society.

“SM Cares has been a proud partner of Happy Walk for years because we believe in the importance of creating a society where everyone feels valued and included. This event is a reminder that inclusivity is not just an initiative—it is a responsibility we all share.” ~Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs.

SM Prime Chairman Hans Sy, together with SM Cares and DSAPI members, is celebrating the success of last year’s Happy Walk event.

The Happy Walk community continues to grow in number and contribute to a broader movement of inclusivity and empowerment.

Join the Movement: How to Be Part of Happy Walk 2025

Everyone is encouraged to take part in this inspiring event—whether by walking, volunteering, or simply showing support. To register, kindly visit the official Happy Walk 2025 registration page at: https://portal.dsapi.ph/dsapi/Register/RegParticipant. For more details on how to join, follow SM Cares’ social media pages.

About SM Cares

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, leading initiatives on inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and community development. Through its long-standing partnership with DSAPI, SM Cares continues to advocate for persons with disabilities, ensuring that every SM mall is a place where everyone feels welcome and valued.

About DSAPI

The Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. Through education, awareness campaigns, and community-building efforts like Happy Walk, DSAPI works to create a more inclusive society.