COMPETITIVE EDGE SM Cares reiterates support for ‘Mga Natatanging Nilalang’ at 2023 Happy Walk for Down Syndrome led by DSAPI

“Today, we express our love once again to our special friends in our midst. Today, we show that we care about their well-being. Today, we show that we shall always walk in solidarity to ensure that they have a bright future.”

This was one of the key points of SM Cares Program Director for Persons with Disabilities, Engr. Bien Mateo’s speech at the 2023 Happy Walk for Down Syndrome of the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI); which took place last February 26 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City.

“We walk today because we seek to foster love, understanding, and hope through this yearly activity, because we act to get integration of persons with disabilities in our community. We want to bring positive change to ensure that people with Down Syndrome have opportunities to contribute and have their rights guaranteed,” Mateo said in his speech.

The recently concluded event marked its 20th year overall and the 16th year that DSAPI held it in partnership with SM Cares. This was also the first time that it was held physically after three years, and was held simultaneously in Manila, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, and Bacolod.

Among the key individuals who graced the event, aside from Mateo, were DSAPI President Luis Harder, DSAPI Chairman Elmer Lapena, and the Chairman of the Executive Committee of SM Prime Hans Sy. Representatives from various Down Syndrome communities and advocacy groups were also present during the event.

One of the highlights was the Happy Walk Parade wherein people with Down Syndrome and their loved ones walked together throughout the SM Mall of Asia Complex. An annual tradition, the parade is a way for people with Down Syndrome and their families to promote awareness, acceptance, and appreciation for those with the condition.

Prior to the parade, the National University Pep Squad gave a rousing performance and led a cheer for Down Syndrome awareness. Later during the event, actor and Down Syndrome awareness advocate Andrea Torres performed special song and dance numbers that wowed the crowd. She also shared a short message on the importance of caring for people with the condition, being sister to one herself.

Another notable part of the event was the Dance ShowDOWN, wherein several children with

Down Syndrome showcased their groovy dance moves on stage. Various booths with activities for the participants, such as drawing and games, were also present throughout the half-day event. To make it even more exciting, there were also raffle draws, where gift cheques, FSM, P10