I’m Perfect Reminds Us That People With Down Syndrome Are Allowed to Love
Sigrid Andrea Bernardo’s I’m Perfect gently reminds us that people with Down syndrome are not defined by limitations
One of the standout entries in the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival, I’m Perfect follows the lives of Jiro and Jessica, two young people with Down syndrome who are determined to prove—to their families and to society—that happiness is not out of reach just because of how others perceive them.
Directed by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, the film offers meaningful lessons for parents, caregivers, and families navigating life with children who have special needs.
People With Down Syndrome Experience Love Fully and Honestly
At the heart of I’m Perfect is the tender relationship between Jiro and Jessica. Jiro starts in the film as a reserved young man, but meeting Jessica opens up a new world for him. Their connection grows naturally, blossoming into a romance rooted in companionship, trust, and joy.
Yet, as with many love stories, theirs does not exist in a vacuum. Both families struggle with fear and uncertainty. Jiro’s parents, Lizel and Dan (played by Lorna Tolentino and Tonton Gutierrez), worry about the realities of adulthood and the shorter life expectancy often associated with Down syndrome. Jessica’s parents, Norma and Arman (Sylvia Sanchez and Joey Marquez), carry their own emotional baggage and doubts.
Still, Jiro and Jessica choose each other. With the support of friends, they stand their ground—even eloping to show that their love is real and intentional. Their story challenges a long-standing misconception: that people with Down syndrome are incapable of romantic love or commitment. The film gently but firmly proves otherwise.
Educating Parents Begins With Unlearning Old Beliefs
One of the film’s most striking arcs belongs to Arman, Jessica’s father. Having abandoned his family early on, Arman admits that he wasn’t prepared to raise a child with Down syndrome. In a heartfelt conversation with Norma, he apologizes—not only for leaving, but for the ignorance and hurtful language he once used.
Norma corrects him, reminding him of the importance of respectful terms and, more importantly, of seeing their daughter as a person first. Her grace opens the door for Arman to step into his role as a father finally.
Later, this growth comes full circle when Arman defends Jessica at the restaurant where she works part-time, confronting customers who mock her appearance. His message is simple but powerful: look beyond the surface. People with Down syndrome are human, deserving of dignity and respect.
Loving Your Child Sometimes Means Letting Them Go
Like many parents of children with special needs, Jiro and Jessica’s families are fiercely protective. Their fear comes from love—but I’m Perfect gently reminds us that protection can sometimes turn into limitation.
With the help of Jiro’s yaya, Claring (Janice de Belen), the couple starts a life of their own in the province. When the parents eventually reunite with them, they witness something unexpected: Jiro and Jessica are thriving. They are capable, happy, and building a life together on their own terms.
That moment of realization is transformative. Lizel, Dan, Norma, and Arman begin to understand that their children are no longer just children—they are adults who deserve the chance to experience the world, even if it means stepping back.
It’s a difficult lesson for any parent, but one that feels especially resonant here.
A Gentle Reminder for Every Family
Though the film carries a touch of sadness, I’m Perfect ultimately leaves viewers with hope. It reminds us that children with Down syndrome can live meaningful, joyful lives—and that parenting them requires the same balance all parents must learn: guidance paired with trust.
More than anything, I’m Perfect asks families to see beyond fear and focus on love. Because everyone, regardless of ability, deserves to be loved, respected, and allowed to grow into who they are meant to be.
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Frequently Asked Questions
I’m Perfect follows Jiro and Jessica, two young adults with Down syndrome who fall in love and choose to build a life together. Set against the concerns and fears of their families, the film explores love, independence, and what it truly means to support children with special needs as they grow into adulthood.
One of the film’s strongest messages is that love and protection must be balanced with trust. I’m Perfect reminds parents that while fear often comes from wanting to keep children safe, growth happens when children are allowed to make choices, experience life, and discover their own capabilities.
Their relationship challenges a common misconception: that people with Down syndrome are incapable of romantic love or commitment. The film shows that their love is intentional, joyful, and meaningful—just like any other relationship.
The parents represent the fears many families face—worries about safety, longevity, and societal judgment. Over time, they are challenged to unlearn old beliefs and recognize that their children are adults capable of living fulfilling lives.
