Skip to main content

Kids on the autism spectrum and their families to enjoy sensory-friendly screening

 Get ready for a unique movie experience! In celebration of the National Autism Consciousness Week, SM Cares and SM Cinema, in partnership with the Autism Society Philippines and GMA Pictures, are hosting a free "Lights Up, Sounds Down" sensory-friendly screening of “Firefly,” a 2023 Filipino fantasy film about a young boy's journey of self-discovery, on January 17, 2025, Friday, from 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM.

The sensory-friendly screening tailors the environment to the needs of children on the autism spectrum by adjusting lights, volume, and allowing movement and vocalizations.

SM Supermalls is committed to inclusivity, providing employee training and accessible facilities to enhance the cinema experience for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.


This will be screened simultaneously in the following SM Cinemas: SM North Edsa, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Baguio, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Marikina, SM Southmall, SM City Cebu, SM City Bacolod, SM City Davao, and SM City Telabastagan in Pampanga.

To be held simultaneously in 10 SM Cinemas on January 17, 2025, the free screening of “Firefly,” an award-winning Filipino film, makes movie-going more inclusive.

“Firefly,” directed by Zig Dulay, garnered critical acclaim at the 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival, ultimately winning Best Picture. The film stars Alessandra De Rossi and Euwenn Mikaell in his theatrical debut.

In 2022, a sensory-friendly screening of “Lightyear,” part of the "Lights Up, Sounds Down" initiative for individuals on the autism spectrum, is held at SM North EDSA Cinema.


The sensory-friendly screening differs from regular movie showings by creating an environment that's specially tailored to the needs of children on the autism spectrum. The lights are brought up, and the volume and sound effects are reduced to minimize sensory overload. Additionally, the relaxed atmosphere allows for movement and vocalizations, making the experience more enjoyable and less restrictive.

Year-round support for the autism community

SM recognizes that inclusivity is a continuous process. To support this, SM offers initiatives such as employee training to better assist individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Efforts are also made to ensure that all areas of the mall, including its cinemas, are accessible and welcoming to all.

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.


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

All SM Malls Unite for Cebu: A Nationwide Call to Hope and Empowerment

  All SM malls across the country light up in green to symbolize hope and unity for communities in Cebu affected by Typhoon Tino—reflecting the Filipino spirit of bayanihan and compassion during times of adversity. In the aftermath of Typhoon Tino , SM Supermalls, through SM Foundation and SM Cares , has launched a nationwide campaign titled “All SM Malls Unite for Cebu,” mobilizing support and solidarity to uplift communities affected by the disaster. With the campaign’s message, “HOPE calls for an empowered community,” SM invites Filipinos across the country to extend compassion and generosity—uniting to bring grace, hope, and strength to those in need. SM City Cebu’s Christmas centerpiece glows as part of the “All SM Malls Unite for Cebu” campaign. The lighting ceremony, held on November 13, brings together SM employees, partners, and local stakeholders to express solidarity with those impacted by the recent typhoon. Lighting the Way for Cebu The initiative was launched duri...

A Dozen Delicious Reasons to Dine at SMDC

Looking for your next food trip? These dining spots inside SMDC properties are lowkey, amazing and worth a visit whether you live nearby or are just dropping in. From Japanese beef bowls to Tagaytay cafés with a view, these places offer more than good eats. They bring flavor, vibe, and convenience to everyday dining. Here’s where to eat when hunger strikes: 1. Liminvl Coffee – SMDC Strip at Wind Residences, Tagaytay Liminvl Coffee at SMDC Strip at Wind offers approachable specialty brews in a cozy, home-like space where residents, office workers, and coffee lovers gather; their best-seller is the Apricot Latte, a smooth espresso topped with apricot-infused foam, while favorites like the Americoco, Mushroom Melt, Fish & Chips, and hand-brewed pour-overs keep guests coming back, with seasonal coffee mocktails, an expanded food menu, and upcoming workshops making it a true community hub. Price Range per Head: 400-700 Link: https://www.instagram.com/liminvlcoffee?igsh=MWRhYmVpcHlpbnB5N...

SM City Santa Rosa’s Pride Pheerayde 2025: A Dazzling Celebration of Love, Inclusion, and Community

  SANTA ROSA, LAGUNA — A wave of color, music, and  colorful pride filled SM City Santa Rosa as the mall hosted its biggest and brightest celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community to date — Pride Pheerayde 2025 .  The event, held in celebration  of Pride Month, marked a historic first among SM malls in Laguna, and drew an overwhelming show of support from the community, local leaders, and partner organizations. With the theme “Celebrate Pride   Love,” the event turned the mall amphitheater was transformed into a hub of celebration and entertainment. Attendees were treated to a dynamic lineup of performances by talented drag queens, youth advocates, artists, and allies—bringing color, creativity, and courage to every corner of the celebration. A sea of rainbow pride floods SM City Santa Rosa’s main atrium during Pride Pheerayde 2025 — complete with drag queens, rainbow installations, and an electrifying atmosphere of love and inclusion. A true show stoppers were the Mila...