No Program Changes in VST3 - regrettable decision

So it is possible to have a VST3instrument respond to MIDI Prg Changes from a MIDI keyboard / interface (DIN cable), provided this functionality is implemented in the VST3 instrument? Could you kindly tell what this parameter is or point me to the specs so I can quote them for the manufacturer. They’re under the impression that this is not possible. When I was in contact with them, I got this reply:
“The program change messages are not received by the VST 3 ( this is because Steinberg wanted to abstract all midi messages with VST parameters and prevent the plugins from processing raw midi events). As far as I know, it is a limitation imposed by steinberg, there is no workaround, except by loading the plug-in as a VST2 instead of VST3.”
I’m very glad if this is not so - this manufacturer is very responsive to users’ wishes, and would surely implement the necessary VST function.
Thank you for your help,
n