• CHERYL G. CRUZ
About 180 kids on the autism spectrum from Bacolod City and nearby areas, with their parents and guardians, gathered at SM Bacolod Cinema 3 this morning, Jan. 17, for the free “Lights Up, Sounds Down” sensory-friendly screening of GMA’s fantasy film “Firefly”.
The special movie screening, in partnership with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Bacolod Chapter, is in line with the National Autism Consciousness Week observance, and was simultaneously held in nine other SM cinemas nationwide, as part of the mall management’s commitment to “creating an inclusive and welcoming space where everyone can experience the joy of cinema.”
ASP Bacolod president Wendy Arroyo, in her speech at the program prior to the screening, thanked SM Cares, SM Malls, and SM cinemas “for the unwavering commitment to building an Autism-OK Philippines, where acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation for individuals on the autism spectrum are the norm.”
Arroyo recalled that the first-ever sensory-friendly movie screening in the Philippines—and possibly in Asia—happened on Sept. 25, 2009 at SM Cinema 3, The Block, SM North EDSA. “Today, SM Cares is making history again by doing their Lights Up, Sounds Down simultaneously in 10 SM cinemas nationwide in partnership with 20 ASP chapters.”
She said that for many of the 180 of the more than one million Filipinos on the autism spectrum, this marks their first time entering a cinema, a milestone made possible by efforts to address sensory challenges.
SM earlier said that sensory-friendly screening differs from regular movie showings by creating an environment that is especially 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,” the mall said in an statement, adding that since inclusivity is a continuous process, SM offers initiatives, such as employee training to better assist individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
Richelle Verdeprado Mangga, head of Bacolod’s Department of Social Services and Development, also thanked the SM Supermalls, the ASP, and GMA Pictures for this inspiring and powerful step forward in providing a sensory-friendly space and supportive environment, and in pushing for inclusion, sensitivity, and empowerment.
“The city, through our office, is also excited to explore more opportunities of collaboration with you, as we ensure that no one is left behind,” she said in her message. “The city government of Bacolod, through the leadership of Mayor Alfredo Benitez, is with you in appreciating the uniqueness of every individual and the beauty of inclusion.”
The sensory-friendly movie screening of “Firefly”, a 2023 Filipino fantasy film about a young boy’s journey of self-discovery, was also held at SM North Edsa, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Baguio, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Marikina, SM Southmall, SM City Cebu, SM City Davao, and SM City Telabastagan in Pampanga. | CGC
