United States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim lauded the efforts in the Philippines and retail and property giant SM Prime Holdings Inc. in pushing for inclusivity of children with Down Syndrome.
Joining the Happy Walk for Down Syndrome held at the SMX at the Mall of Asia in Pasay City Sunday, Kim said he was inspired by the energy of the children in the event as he lauded efforts on children with Down Syndrome.
“This is a wonderful event. I am really honored to spend some time with these kids. I’m really inspired by these children because there’s so much energy. I would like to commend everyone and SM for organizing these very special event,” Kim said in an interview.
Gamely participating in the activity booths set up by children with Down Syndrome, Kim pledged to take part in next year’s Happy Walk event. “This has been going on for quite a while and I look forward to participating again next year,” he said.
Elmer Lapena, President of the Down Sydrome Association of the Philippines, said children who have the condition have started to level up in terms of taking the first step in becoming productive members of society.
“This level up is to push society to embrace our children for them to become productive members of society. We have many kids now who are working or going to school and we hope more of them could be accommodated,” he said.
Lapena’s son Jeremy, who has Down Syndrome, is currently employed as a sales assistant at a bag store.
“My son currently works and he mingles well with co-workers and customers. Many look for him when he’s not around and so it just goes to show that can work and be part of the community. Our dream is full integration of our children in society and we are starting to see that happen,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude that more and more people have been participating in their Happy Walk event, which takes them around MOA. “Last year was special because 3,000 people came. We expected only 1,500 last year but more than 3,000 came. This year, more than 4,000 people attended and we feel very honored to be given this importance,” he said.
Happy Walk for Down Syndrome is the kick-off event to in celebration and observance of the National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month and is spearheaded by DSAPI and SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Prime.
Department of Health data showed that one person with Down Syndrome is born in the Philippines every four hours.
Lapena said contrary to popular belief, Down Syndrome is a common genetic disorder that affects one in every 800 Filipino children.
