"Lights Up, Sounds Down" offers inclusive movie experience for autism community
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.
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