Straight from the Heart

In 2004, a teen with autism was “mishandled” inside a branch of the country’s biggest chain of malls. But instead of just releasing perfunctory statements and public apologies, the mall management started an aggressive program for persons with all kinds of disabilities, straight from the heart.

Today, SM Supermalls are recognized, here and abroad, as one of the most PWD-friendly commercial establishments.

Cebu-Pacific Airlines, and other commercial establishments, can take their cue from SM Supermalls. ASP, and perhaps other PWD groups in the future, will be more than willing to partner in educating their management and employees on how to be more understanding and sensitive to the needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

Yes, there are laws like the Magna Carta for PWDs or RA 7277 and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), protecting the rights of PWDs. But more than abiding by the laws, decent people and companies know that respecting everyone, including those with disabilities is a basic human right.

ASP will be celebrating the 14th Autism Consciousness week from January 17-24, 2010. Join Angels Walk for autism at SM Mall of Asia on January 24, 2010. No other Walk comes close to an angel’s heart. Click here for more information.

Posted in: uncrpd