Taguig assists families of children with Down Syndrome

The City of Taguig celebrated the National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month on February 28, 2023, by setting up an interactive play environment for kids with Down Syndrome. Dubbed kiDSania, the mini-buildings allowed the children to experience real-world learning and fun.

Around 200 children participated, and they were given tokens per area to fully immerse themselves in the environment.

Mayor Lani Cayetano joined the children in the kiDSania environment, assuring the parents that the city government is dedicated to providing continued services and programs for persons with disabilities.

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With the goal of becoming a Caring City, Taguig has hired a developmental pediatrician and an occupational therapist to manage patients' developmental and behavioral conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism.

The City of Taguig has also taken steps towards employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. Last January 2023, the city hired 29 persons with disabilities, including one with Down Syndrome, during the job fair led by the Persons With Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO). One of the new hires, Elham Cadao, is now employed as a greeter at the Center for the Elderly.

Mayor Lani encouraged the private sector to follow suit, noting the high capacity for social understanding and empathy among persons with Down Syndrome.

Through the cooperation of the city government and its constituents, Taguig hopes to continue providing opportunities and support for persons with disabilities. Mayor Lani expressed her faith in God's grace and their united efforts to make progress towards this goal.