Best Buddies Philippines Launches Friendship Walk to Promote Inclusion

CEBU CITY - Best Buddies Philippines celebrates inclusion of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) with the first Friendship Walk in the country to be held in Cebu  and Cavite. As a premier flagship event of Best Buddies held all over the world, the walk is a global movement of social inclusion and friendship. This is the world’s largest walk that raises funds to support the programs of One-to-One Friendship, Leadership Development, and Integrated Employment. These events serve as avenues for student leaders, families, and advocates to come together and raise the awareness to highlight respect, kindness, and acceptance towards individuals of all abilities.

Through the support and commitment of Robinsons Land Malls and Robinsons Summit Galleria Cebu, Best Buddies Philippines will expand and scale the programs by touching the lives of Filipinos in the Visayas region. This year’s walk will take place on March 29, 2025 at the Robinsons Galleria Cebu.

Children's Paradise Montessori School (CPMS) will be leading the inclusive efforts in the region by mounting this milestone event, celebrating 20 years of service and dedication to families, children, and students of all abilities. These stakeholders will be supported through the initiatives and programming of BBP’s pillars that aim to foster their creativity, leadership, and industry skills as they manage various life transitions of school, education, and recreation.

The De La Salle Zobel Friendship Chapter in Cavite will be celebrating its 10 years of serving neurodivergent individuals in their community by heading the Friendship Walk on campus. They will also bring together students, family members, and corporate partners to support the mission of friendship and inclusion on March 29th in Vermosa.

Each walk will feature interactive games, inspiring stories, and performances, all providing a memorable experience for attendees. Walkers will look forward to booths of partner organizations including - government agencies, therapy centers and non-profit organizations through the Community Corner. Corporate partners and inclusion advocates will provide points of collaboration in the community through a panel discussion. Participants will learn more about BBP’s various programs.

Ultimately, this signature event emphasizes the community's commitment to supporting the children, young adults and families members of individuals with disabilities to be included in all facets of society, such as education, employment, and social activities.

Best Buddies Philippines is inviting individuals, families, schools, therapy centers and corporations to join the walk to make a difference. Registration is free, with limited edition friendship walk kits for walkers and teams that donate to further the cause. All funds raised will go towards expanding Best Buddies Philippines’ programs to all corners of the country.

For more information about the event and how to register, visit https://bestbuddiesph.org/friendship-walk/

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ABOUT BEST BUDDIES PHILIPPINES Best Buddies Philippines is a non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental diversities in the Philippines. Established in 2020, Best Buddies Philippines is accredited by Best Buddies International and continues to create opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development and inclusive living.  In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental diversities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships.

For more information please visit the website www.bestbuddiesph.org, Facebook Page, Instagram, Youtube, and Linkedin