On March 29, 2025, Children’s Paradise Montessori School (CPMS), in collaboration with Best Buddies Philippines, marked a major step forward for inclusivity by hosting the Best Buddies Friendship Walk at Robinsons Galleria, Cebu City. With the theme “Steps of Hope, Strides of Friendship,” students from various schools and universities in Cebu, professionals, and government representatives came together to advocate for the rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and promote a more inclusive society.
What began in 2024 as a small, campus-based friendship walk at CPMS has now grown into a bigger, louder, and more impactful movement. This year, over 800 participants took part in the event, walking in solidarity to support persons with disabilities (PWDs). The event featured interactive booths, dance and song performances, a community discussion, raffle draws, and the highlight of the day—the Best Buddies Friendship Walk around the mall.
CPMS Head Marivic Bathan opened the event with a powerful message, emphasizing that this was not just an event but a movement. She underscored the importance of taking concrete steps to ensure that all learners have opportunities to grow, lead, and contribute to society. She stressed that real change happens through action, and the Best Buddies Walk stands as a testament to the commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive world for everyone.
A community discussion featuring educators, professionals, government representatives, and parents addressed key issues surrounding PWD inclusion.
Panelists shared their insights on the challenges faced by PWDs in education and employment, emphasizing the need for more accessible infrastructure, inclusive teaching methods, and collaboration with parents and government agencies. Parents spoke about their personal experiences advocating for their children, while government representatives discussed ongoing and future initiatives aimed at improving accessibility and opportunities for PWDs.
Following the discussion, participants took part in the Best Buddies Walk as a symbol of their unwavering support. Educators, professionals, students, parents, families, and PWDs walked together through Robinsons Galleria, raising awareness and advocating for a more inclusive society.
The event concluded with a raffle draw and inspiring words from Mary Sue Cervantes Bathan, a 23-year-old with cerebral palsy and a member of the pioneering batch of Best Buddies Cebu. Having recently passed the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LPT), she shared her journey of overcoming self-doubt in traditional schools, where she often felt like she didn’t belong. Returning to CPMS as a teacher now helped her embrace inclusivity and develop self-confidence.
“There’s no such thing as disability, only different abilities,” she said. “If you take one step for someone with a disability, you inspire them to be proud of who they are. Step up.”
Every step toward inclusivity creates lasting change. As attendees left with a renewed commitment to empowering PWDs, the message was clear: Inclusivity begins with “I”, but it needs “us”.
