Happy Walk 2026 assembled 10,500 advocates, breaking record as largest gathering for Down Syndrome in Asia

  

Participants of Happy Walk 2026 at SMX Convention Center - Manila come together in a joyful display of unity and support for individuals with Down syndrome, reinforcing the message that inclusion thrives when communities walk forward as one.

Happy Walk 2026 broke records as the largest gathering of allies for the Down Syndrome community in Asia with 10,500 advocates gathering all over the country as the strongest show of solidarity and empowerment to date.

Led by SM Cares and the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines Inc., the celebration was held simultaneously on March 29 in SMX Manila, SM City Bacolod, and SM City Cebu. This year’s Happy Walk showed that the strength of the movement is not only found in size, but in SM’s commitment to create spaces where people with Down syndrome are seen, celebrated, and encouraged to thrive.

Big change through continued, united steps

Since the very first Happy Walk in 2003, the event serves as a joyful gathering for the Down syndrome community and its supporters. This year’s program highlighted self-expression, talent, and community participation through activities such as the Happy Walk parade, stage performances, activity booths, and DS Got Talent. All milestones were designed to promote the talents and abilities of individuals with Down syndrome, foster inclusion and awareness, and provide a platform for self-expression beyond familiar stereotypes.

Smiles and shared moments define Happy Walk 2026, where individuals with Down syndrome are seen, celebrated, and empowered in a space built on dignity and belonging.

Stage performances during Happy Walk 2026 highlight self-expression and talent, giving individuals with Down syndrome a platform to shine the brightest.

Members of the Down syndrome community present a token of appreciation to Mr. Hans Sy, symbolizing partnership and support for inclusive communities.

Volunteers and partner communities stand in solidarity at Happy Walk 2026, underscoring SM Cares’ continued commitment to inclusion, and empowerment.

It also reinforced a message that remains at the heart of the advocacy: that inclusion is not a one-day effort, but a continuing commitment to creating environments where every individual is embraced, empowered, and supported. 

Through SM Cares, SM Supermalls remains committed to opening spaces for this advocacy year after year—helping build communities where dignity, opportunity, and belonging are not the exception, but the norm. SM’s deeper drive for inclusivity stems from its pursuit of becoming a true Mall for All—standing as the most-loved mall for its customers no matter what their needs may be.

Exceeding expectations

This year’s theme, “321 & Beyond – Raising Aspirations, Inclusion, Support & Empowerment for People with Down Syndrome,” centered on advancing opportunities as well as recognizing the potential and abilities of the Down Syndrome community. 

Happy Walk 2026 brings the advocacy for inclusion to SM City Cebu, as families and supporters unite to celebrate the strengths and potential of individuals with Down syndrome.

Onstage performances at Happy Walk 2026 in SM City Cebu celebrate the talents and selfexpression of persons with Down syndrome in an inclusive space that encourages them to shine.

Happy Walk 2026 at SM City Bacolod highlights the power of shared commitment, reminding communities that inclusion is built one meaningful step at a time.

Joy and community spirit fill SM City Bacolod as Happy Walk 2026 gathers advocates and families in support of raising aspirations for people with Down syndrome.

The celebration focused on four action-points: raising aspirations, inclusion, support, and empowerment. The importance of helping individuals with Down syndrome dream bigger, participate more fully in schools, workplaces, and communities, access the support they need, and find platforms where their voices and talents can be recognized. 

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially conscious and environmentally responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement. 

UP FOR A PLOT TWIST? Explore Unexpected Finds in Visayas at SM Supermalls

 

Not everything goes according to script, but honestly, that’s where the best parts can happen.

It’s all twist after twist, one minute you’re in a regular run, the next you’ve stumbled on something you didn’t expect, and suddenly it’s the highlight of your day. The kind you didn’t plan for, but made the detour oh-so-worth-it.

So if you’re up for a little scene switch, there’s always something waiting to surprise you at SM Supermalls in Visayas, where new and upcoming spots bring unexpected finds, exciting firsts, and moments that are all for you.

A Sudden Drip Addition

Just when everything’s right on track, a new name enters the mix to change the scene. Here comes the first-ever Salomon in Cebu, now open at the 2nd Level of SM J Mall–bringing in performance-driven design that moves seamlessly between function and everyday wear, adding a fresh, unexpected edge to your usual lineup. 

A Tasty Surprise 

Right when you think you’ve seen it all, something new slips in and changes the lineup. Mesa will soon return to Bacolod at the newly built block of SM City Bacolod–bringing its signature take on Filipino favorites with its crisp and flavorful Crispy Pork Belly or its fresh, savory Tinapa Roll.

This is your cue to go off script and explore, because the best things usually show themselves when you didn’t make plans to find it. Discover more firsts and experiences only here at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls–All For You.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You

SM reinforces public safety through nationwide Fire Prevention Month programs

  

Participants from SM Supermalls, the Bureau of Fire Protection, partner agencies, and community volunteers come together for the Fire Prevention Month activities, reinforcing a shared commitment to safety, preparedness, and building disaster-resilient communities.

MANILA, Philippines, April 06, 2026 - Reaffirming its commitment to public safety and community resilience, SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), led a series of impactful, nationwide initiatives in celebration of Fire Prevention Month, empowering Filipinos with life-saving knowledge, preparedness skills, and a shared responsibility for fire safety across its network of most-loved malls.

Mounted through SM Cares, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill engaged almost 30,000 participants composed of SM employees, tenant employees, security and janitorial personnel, students, mall goers, and residents of barangays near SM malls which was a 30% increase in participants versus the previous year. With the theme ‘Sa pag-iwas sa sunog hindi ka nag-iisa, kababaihan kasama mo!’, the drill strengthened coordination in emergency response, especially helping communities practice life-saving evacuation procedures. In addition, the Fire Square Road Show brought interactive fire safety education to the public across 16 participating SM malls, reaching 8,611 participants through demonstrations, equipment showcases, and hands-on safety activities designed for families, students, and community members. 

A large-scale Fire Prevention Month illumination at the SM Mall of Asia Globe featured a dramatic “Venus Symbol Formation” created by 263 fire trucks and emergency vehicles, with 2,827 participants, honoring firefighters and raising awareness about fire safety and emergency preparedness.

The search for the Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines (TOFF) 2026 was formally launched with officers of SM, BFP and DILG headed by Usec. Rolando C. Puno as Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS). TOFF is on its 3rd solid year of recognizing Filipino firefighters for their exemplary service in fire safety and protection, emergency response, community education, and resilience-building initiatives. This highlights the partnership between SM Prime and BFP for a safer, more resilient Philippines.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement. 

PHOTO OPTIONS:

 

On March 1, the SM Mall of Asia Globe lights up in purple signaling the joint celebration of Women’s Month and Fire Prevention Month 2026. The purple illumination and formation of the Venus symbol signifies dignity, justice, and empowerment for all women and girls, and marking the start of SM Cares’ month-long advocacy in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Women on Fire:       Women firefighters take part in the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill on March 3 at SM Mall of Asia, showcasing courage, skill, and leadership while advancing the role of women in safety, service, and community protection.

 

A woman BFP firefighter teaches Hands-Only CPR to young students during the Fire Square Road Show at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on March 3, underscoring the importance of education and community awareness in building a safer, more prepared future.

The official launch of the TOFF 2026 on March 3 at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall with DILG Usec. Rolando C. Puno as GOHAS together with SM officers, TOFF 2025 judges and BFP Officer-in-Charge Fire Chief Superintendent Wilberto Rico Neil Ang Kwan Tiu

POV: You’re Romanticizing Life with All These FIRSTS IN ZAMBOANGA at SM Supermalls

Career, hobbies, social life, relationships—with so many things vying for our attention, sometimes it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters: living in the moment and finding joy in the mundane.

Now, picture this: a Saturday afternoon stroll, slow weekends, a cup of tea in hand. Honestly, when’s the last time you allowed yourself to pause for a while and breathe in times like these? To idealize each and every waking moment, making them seem grander than they are—have you ever wondered what it’s like to fall in love with life again?

Well, wander no more, because here at your most-loved SM Supermalls, we’ll show you what it’s like to live with intention and make your happiness the central plot of your own story. From fresh new eats to new finds and experiences to discover, SM City Zamboanga is here to help you imagine what it’s like to experience the best from your point of view.

Moments Become Worth Savoring

All of a sudden, the food tastes better. You get to enjoy each meal as if you’re savoring it for the first time—each soft bite, each aromatic note—details you previously didn’t notice now bring a smile to your face with every spoonful.

• JCO Reserve
  Located at the Upper Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, a sweeter kind of pause in your day awaits. Here at the first-in-Mindanao JCO Reserve, coffee and treats feel elevated into little rituals—smooth sips and soft bites that make everything feel just a bit more special than usual.

• BOTEJYU
  Featuring the  first-in-Zamboanga Botejyu, a true celebration of Japanese comfort food unfolds at the Lower Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, where every dish feels warm, familiar, and deeply satisfying. From hearty okonomiyaki to freshly cooked noodles, rice bowls, and sizzling teppan-style favorites, it’s a table filled with flavors meant to be savored and remembered.

• The Matcha Tokyo
  Located on the Third Level of the mall, The Matcha Tokyo arrives in Zamboanga for the first time ever to serve the authentic, high-quality Japanese matcha it’s famous for, offering a variety of premium desserts crafted for those who truly savor the flavor.

• Brique Modern Kitchen
  With a menu centered on well-crafted dishes, BRIQUE, opening soon at the upper ground level, brings its dining concept to Zamboanga for the first time in a stylish, comforting setting where good food and atmosphere turn simple meals into memorable experiences.Ch

Suddenly, Life’s More Fun

In a heartbeat, life feels more exciting. You are filled with the rush of adventure, ready to set your life into motion and indulge yourself in life’s small surprises.

• FantasyWorld
  Fun, you say? Located on the Third Level of the mall, Fantasy World brings a playful escape to Zamboanga for the first time. Step into a space bursting with color and imagination, where every visit turns into a mini adventure full of memories worth returning for.

• Gashapon Bandai
  Finally, here on the Third Level, the first-in-Zamboanga Gashapon Bandai brings the thrill of capsule toy surprises straight from Japan. With every turn, you get a chance at collectible figures and quirky finds—perfect for those spontaneous, joy-filled moments.

Settle in Your Own Kind of Comfort

Finally, you get to understand what it’s like to put yourself first. To make your world revolve around what brings you comfort. To declutter, feel refreshed, and find happiness in whatever life blows in your direction.

Step into a world where innovation meets elegance at the first-ever Dyson in Zamboanga at the Upper Ground Level. Touch, test, and fall in love with their sleek technology—from vacuums to hair care tools and air purifiers—that makes everyday life effortless and beautiful.

Here at SM Supermalls, we understand what matters to you. To the tune of the famous French song La Vie En Rose, sometimes you just have to see the world through rose-colored glasses—through the POV of love and your own happiness. Romanticize your life! See what it’s like to experience the world from your own point of view, all for you.

 
Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You