PHILIPPINES: Throughout the world, one in 800 babies is born with Down syndrome every day, making it the most common birth abnormality in the world.

An establishment in the Philippines is breaking ground by hiring and training children with Down syndrome, in the hope of changing perceptions about the condition.

"It opens up door for people with Down Syndrome. I am very thankful and hopefully more establishments will offer this kind of opportunity," says Arturo Dee, father of Ryan who has Down syndrome.

Assisted by Enderun's hotel and restaurant management students, children such as Ryan do everything from jotting down the client's orders to serving their meal.

Enderun employers believe that with the right training, these children are even better and more efficient employees.

They are also being trained to become future managers, thus giving these children more chances of becoming functional members of society.

"These kids are very capable to function in society. We need people to be aware that they too can do the things that we usually do despite having Down syndrome. They are better employees because they know that we are offering them not just a job but a chance to prove their capabilities and worth to society," says Jack Tuason, Chairman, Enderun.

Just like 27-year-old Sarah who has been supervising this jewelry boutique for a year now.

Sarah has even built a loyal base of customers that have been coming back to New Creations because of her presence.

Client Imelda Mateo says, "Sarah is very attentive and she answers my questions. She was able to give me suggestions on what will suit my wrist size." - CNA/yy