In celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, SM City Bacolod, in partnership with the Down Syndrome Parent Support Group-Bacolod, unveiled “A Happy Photo” exhibit at the mall’s east bridgeway March 21.
The exhibit, which will run until March 30, aims to raise awareness and advocate for inclusivity for individuals with Down syndrome.
Featuring 11 curated photographs of children and young adults with Down syndrome, the display highlights their unique personalities and joyful spirits, the mall said in a press release.
Samantha Golez, ambassadress for Down syndrome awareness, said in her message during the exhibit’s opening that “most people are born with 46 chromosomes, while we, who have Down syndrome are born with 47.”
“The extra chromosome makes us a special edition,” she joyfully shared and appealed for everyone’s greater understanding and inclusion.
Golez also expressed gratitude to the mall for the continued support. “SM’s generous support makes Bacolod one of the more inclusive cities in the country.”
Special messages in support of inclusivity for all individuals with disabilities were also delivered by Carmeli Bantug-Zayco, head of the Bacolod City Sectoral Affairs Office, and Alma Gustilo, who leads the Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office.
The photo exhibit serves as a pre-event to the annual Happy Walk, scheduled on March 30, also at SM City Bacolod.
The mall invites everyone to join the Happy Walk, a nationwide movement dedicated to fostering awareness, inclusion, and empowerment for individuals with Down syndrome. ||
