Matthew Mendoza proud of daughter Bea, shares message for parents of children with Down syndrome

Matthew Mendoza is beaming with pride over his eldest daughter, Bea, as he opened up about her achievements and shared an inspiring message for parents raising children with Down syndrome.

On Thursday’s “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” the actor and politician talked about Bea's participation in the 2025 film “I'mPerfect,” which tackles the experiences of people with Down syndrome.

According to Matthew, the project had been years in the making.

“Dumating ‘yung pandemic, nawala lahat. And then, si Bea got much older. And then, suddenly, may nakuha silang producer for the movie. And then, this is it,” he said.

Asked if he was proud of his daughter, Matthew replied without hesitation: "Of course."

He also highlighted Bea's accomplishments outside of acting, sharing that she represented the Philippines as a Special Olympics World Ambassador.

“She was sent to Austria in 2017. We attended it. And, we were so proud, syempre,” he said.

Matthew likewise shared how he and his wife chose to raise Bea, hoping to encourage other parents of children with Down syndrome.

“Ako, I'll just share my experience. Kami, my wife and I, ever since nung lumambas si Bea, hindi namin siya tinabi. Sinama namin siya sa regular. Sa regular, sa mainstream. Para, you know, kasi kung tinatago mo, they won't grow,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of acceptance, support, and access to proper interventions.

“Okay, tanggap na natin na special sila. But, kung bibigyan mo silang proper attention, proper therapy, proper everything, makakahabol din sila,” he said.

He also shared that Bea now works as an assistant teacher at her school.

“Bea's working sa school niya as an assistant teacher. So, from Monday to Friday, nagre-report talaga ‘yan siya,” he said. “Sa bahay, hindi siya tinatratong special. So, kailangan niya humabol.”

Matthew is a former matinee idol who rose to fame in the 1990s. Among his projects are “Dyesebel,” “Bridesmaids,” “Ikaw Naman ang Iiyak,” and more. —Carby Rose Basina/CDC, GMA News