World Down Syndrome Day is observed annually on March 21 not only to raise awareness about Down Syndrome, but also to underscore the importance of embracing individuals with this genetic disorder as valuable members of society.
Among its passionate advocates are these celebrities who proudly stand as siblings of individuals with Down Syndrome.
Read: Filipino celebrities who have opened up about raising special children
ARA MINA
Ara Mina sees her 31-year-old sister Mina Princess Klenk “Batching” as her lucky charm.
In an article published on PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) last May 18, 2028, she said, “Nung pinanganak siya, doon ako natanggap sa pag-aartista.
“I think she’s my lucky charm.
“Kasi nung wala pa siya sa buhay namin, ilang audition ako hindi ako natatangap…
“'Tapos, nung pinanganak na siya, pumasa ako.”
Read: Ara Mina opens up about having a sister with Down Syndrome
Aside from Baching, Ara has two more sisters from her maternal side: Cristine Reyes and Heidi Gatmaitan.
ANDREA TORRES
Andrea's brother Kenneth is her "angel."
And no matter how busy she is, the actress sees to it that she gets to spend quality time with Kenneth.
Some of these bonding moments were put out on social media, where it attracted a few insensitive remarks.
Andrea could not help but frown over the hurtful comments about Kenneth.
“Na-offend talaga ako, dinamdam ko siya talaga," she admitted in a PEP Exclusive in 2021.
And this is probably the reason her feed has less posts about her brother.
Read: Andrea Torres admits being offended by negative comments about her brother with Down Syndrome
SOFIA ANDRES
Sofia's brother Bryan was cast in The Story of Us (2016), where he played Darwin.
In an interview with TV Patrol, the Kapamilya actress said that she would usually bring the family's "apple of the eye" to the set or studio.
"Every time na may meeting or may taping, sinasama ko po siya. Pinapanood niya ako, 'Ate, kita kita sa TV. Ganda...'"
Sofial also beamed, "He also sings."
Read: Sofia Andres feels lucky to have found sisters in Kathryn Bernardo, Sarah Lahbati
VICKIE RUSHTON
Vickie is a Down Syndrome and PWD Advocate.
She has a 34-year-old brother named Kian.
In a 2017 interview with PEP.ph, the former beauty queen said she wouldn’t trade Kian for anything in this world, and described her love for her brother as "bigger than anything this world can offer."
Vickie hopes there will be more families that embrace their uniqueness.
"Let's not be violent but rather be patient and shower them with pure love."
Read: Vickie Rushton and brother Kian are the ultimate Sibling Goals!
BANGS GARCIA
Valerie “Bangs” Garcia is very close to her brother Ayi.
In a previous interview with PEP.ph, she said, "He's one of my motivation in life, one of the reasons I want to be successful.
"Ang sarap din ng pakiramdam na kapag umuuwi ka, lahat ng pagod, mawawala. He is a big blessing sa akin."
Bangs, who now lives in London with her husband and two kids, was so happy to see Ayi last December.
In her Instagram caption, she wrote (published as is), “Finally reunited with my baby bro, Ayi!!![red heart] My 3 angels in one photo with me- My heart is so full! [smiling face with hearts emoji]”