“LOVE doesn’t count chromosomes.”
For me, this was one impactful line that immediately captured my attention during the “Happy Walk” event at SM City Bacolod on March 29.
I must admit, I read it only once, yet every word stayed with me — both in heart and in mind. It felt like a paean: relatable and deeply touching.
As a father of a child with Down syndrome (DS), such a line truly warms my heart. It offers a meaningful perspective and a deeper sense of discernment.
Then came a moment of quiet reflection, as I contemplated the wonder of God’s grace in giving us a “special son” with DS.
That line also moved me to look beyond the surface and understand DS more deeply. Its complexity — amid the noise of life and the judgment of society — has made me braver in facing societal biases toward individuals with DS.
To whoever crafted that message: you truly “hit the mark.”
ACCEPTANCE
Happy Walk is an annual event spearheaded by SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of SM Malls nationwide. For years now, it has been dedicated to children — and even adults — with Down syndrome.
At its core, Happy Walk promotes awareness and advocacy, leading to greater acceptance of individuals diagnosed with this genetic condition, which results from an error in cell division.
Negros Occidental and Bacolod City are fortunate that SM City Bacolod is one of only five SM malls in the country chosen to host this annual gathering of individuals with DS.
Discussing Down syndrome used to be somewhat taboo. Today, it is a necessary conversation.
Data from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) show that one in every 800 live births in the Philippines is diagnosed with DS.
From this, we can draw the following figures:
* Around 1,875 Filipino babies are born with DS each year.
* More than 100,000 Filipino families have a member with DS.
CHROMOSOME 21
Why does Down syndrome occur?
To better understand, we look back at its medical history. Down syndrome was named after Dr. John Langdon Down, a British physician who first identified the condition’s distinct characteristics in 1866.
What defines DS? The answer lies in Chromosome 21.
In a typical human cell, both males and females have 46 chromosomes arranged in 23 pairs. Females have 22 pairs of autosomes plus XX (46,XX), while males have 22 pairs of autosomes plus XY (46,XY).
In individuals with Down syndrome, there is an extra copy of Chromosome 21. Instead of the usual 46 chromosomes, there are 47 — hence the term Trisomy 21.
This chromosomal condition may lead to intellectual disability and other potential health concerns in a child born with DS.
‘BLESSING’
Is a person diagnosed with DS a curse?
No. He or she is a blessing. I can attest to that. My son, Sabin, is now 16 years old.
He was born with Down syndrome, yet never — not even once — did we consider him a burden. Instead, we have always embraced him as a blessing in our lives.
What do persons with DS truly need?
Acceptance and love. From there, everything else follows.
Acceptance is the best “medicine” for individuals with DS. Without it, a child may grow up feeling isolated and unhappy. But with acceptance, they can live full and joyful lives.
That is why the line “Love doesn’t count chromosomes” serves as a powerful reminder for everyone — especially families — to simply show love. Because in the end, love is what truly matters.
‘GARDEN OF UNDERSTANDING’
Through this annual Happy Walk, SM Cares transforms its malls — including SM City Bacolod — into what can be described as a “garden of understanding.”
Why?
Because, figuratively speaking, the event cultivates patience, empathy, and understanding for persons with Down syndrome — young and old alike.
Creating space for advocacy and awareness is more than a mission; it is a noble legacy worthy of recognition.
Bringing together hundreds of children with DS in one venue each year creates a unique beauty — one that speaks of inclusion beyond mere representation.
Here, every child is valued. Their ability to live meaningful lives, interact with others, and express themselves is recognized and celebrated.
Above all, it fosters respect — affirming that persons with DS are an essential part of society, endowed with unique abilities and talents. It helps shift perceptions that once unfairly dismissed them as burdens.
To SM Malls, thank you for helping reshape this narrative. The space you provide empowers individuals with DS to discover their best selves at their own pace.
And truly, this is a purpose that goes beyond business./PN
