Staff with Down syndrome work across Vivere Hotel in Alabang, preparing rooms, cleaning facilities, handling luggage and setting restaurant tables.

Among them is 40-year-old Richard Gutierrez, the hotel’s longest-serving employee with Down syndrome. He has worked in housekeeping for four years.

"He's been working here at Vivere the longest; it's been four years now," his mother, Ester Gutierrez, said.

Vivere launched the programme in partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines (DSAPI), providing structured employment, workplace training and long-term support.

DSAPI President Nill Patrick Arroyo said many more people with Down syndrome are still waiting for similar opportunities.

"In the Philippines, at least there's one in 800 who has the condition. If we are 110 million, there's around 140,000 to 150,000 people with Down syndrome. But our organisation has only been able to reach around 3,000 to 4,000 members. There's still lots of work to be done," Nill said.

Employment opportunities remain limited. Corporate Social Responsibility Officer Maria Maya Apo said the goal is to encourage more companies to provide similar opportunities.

"We hope they can also venture into other companies. We're aiming for more businesses to include persons with Down syndrome in their programmes," she added.

Relatives say the jobs help employees build confidence, friendships and a sense of achievement.

"It feels rewarding to see individuals like Justine being given a chance to work and demonstrate their potential. They can keep up with their peers and contribute, despite some limitations," said Jovie Andaluz, whose sister Justine works at the hotel.

Vivere says it hopes the programme will encourage more businesses to open their doors to workers with Down syndrome.