February is National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month. This month-long celebration aims to promote nationwide awareness of the Down Syndrome condition and to help educate the people about the great potential possessed by children diagnosed with this condition to help them enjoy full and decent lives with dignity and respect they deserve from everyone.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has declared the month of February of 2002 and the month of February every year as the “National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month” under Proclamation No. 157 she signed on February 18, 2002. The Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines takes the lead in the celebration. The Department of Health, Department of Education, the Department of Labor and Employment, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, other related agencies, and appropriate Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) are enjoined to extend their utmost support and cooperation in the commemoration of this special event.

Down syndrome, also called Trisomy 21, is a genetic condition that occurs when an error in cell division results in an extra chromosome 21 for a total of 47 chromosomes instead of 46. This condition can affect a person’s physical growth and cognitive ability, cause mild to moderate developmental issues, and present a higher risk of some health problems.

Recently, Agnes Lapeña, Head of the celebration of National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month was interviewed via Zoom by CNN Philippines aired live last February 6, 2021. According to her, the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines has set different activities including the Early Intervention Seminar wherein they encourage parents to participate to meet other parents with children with Down Syndrome. Geneticists, Developmental Pediatrician, Speech, Occupational, and Physical Therapist were also invited to talk to guide the parents in raising their children with Down Syndrome. The highlight of the event is the virtual “Happy Walk” which will happen on February 21 in partnership with SM Cares. There will be some activities, contests, and entertainment in the said event. The goal of this event is to bring happiness to the lives of families with children with down syndrome. On their Facebook page, they created a Hand Wash Challenge singing Happy Birthday to celebrate their 29th anniversary and to celebrate the lives of the children. Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. remains committed to its mission in supporting families of children with Down Syndrome.

By: Elton N. Pelegrino & Rowence F. Zorilla

References:

1. Proclamation No. 157

https://www.ncda.gov.ph/disability-laws/proclamations/proclamation-no-157/

2. What to know about Down Syndrome

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/145554?fbclid=IwAR0Zq09xYMy9MFUICcRo87ep3CeB7o2XfFUZ6UCg2WG-zplHHIo9zuXTJRY

3. CNN Philippines

https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?v=925774581496506&ref=watch_permalink