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NACC umani ng papuri sa pagtaas ng bilang ng adoption, foster children: Sen. Poe, emosyonal na ibinahagi ang karanasan bilang foundling, adoptee 

PARAÑAQUE CITY – Umani ng papuri ang National Authority for Child Care (NACC) sa pagdiriwang ng ikatlong anibersaryo ng pagkatatag ng ahensya sa bisa ng R.A. 11642 o ang Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act, noong lunes, Enero 20.

Pinapurihan naman ni Senador Jinggoy Estrada ang mga kawani at opisyal ng NACC sa mga magandang nagagawa nito para sa mga kabataan.

“If there is any legislation that you need relevant to adoption and this particular agency, rest assured I will be your number one supporter … because we value our youth.’” saad ni Sen. Estratda.

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Si Sen. Estrada ay isa sa mga author ng R.A. 10165 o ang Foster Care Act of 2012.

Emosyonal namang ibinahagi ni Senadora Grace Poe sa kanyang talumpati ang karanasan bilang isang foundling, adoptee at kampeon ng batas.

“Palaging sinasabi ng nanay ko, hindi ka man galing sa tiyan ko, dito ka naman nanggaling sa… puso ko… Napakahirap maging ulila…”

Pinasalamatan din ni Poe ang NACC sa pamumuno ni Usec. Estrada, “Maraming-maraming salamat sa inyo sapagkat ang batas ay hindi magtatagumpay kung hindi dahil sa implementasyon ninyo.”

Sa isang panayam, pinapurihan rin ng Senadora ang patuloy na pagtaas ng bilang ng na-aadopt kada taon mula nang maitatag ang NACC.

“Congratulations to DSWD at kay Usec. Janella. Ibig sabihin, mas maraming bata ang nabibigyan ng pamilya na mag-aalaga sa kanila at ng tahanan kung saan sila ay ligtas at masaya. Napakaganda ng programa ninyo,” aniya  ng Senadora,

Ayon kay NACC Usec. Janella Ejercito Estrada, umaabot sa halos isang libo na ang naipa-adopt ng NACC dahil “mas pinabilis at hindi na magastos ang pag-aampon dahil administratibong proseso na lamang ito.”

“Mula nang maitatag ang NACC noong 2022, 968 na bata ang nabigyan ng NACC ng mapagmahal na magulang. Para sa Domestic Administrative Adoption,  629 na ang may Decree of Adoption, habang 154 naman para sa Inter-Country Adoption. Nasa 1,069 naman ang na-idineklarang Child Legally Available for Adoption. 

Taong 2022 nang naisabatas ang R.A. 11642 or the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act para gawing administratibo na ang proseso ng pag-aampon upang mabigyan ng legal at sibil na proteksyon ang mga adoptees at pamilya nito.

Sa bisa ng R.A. 11642, naitatag din ang NACC bilang sangay ng Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) kung saan pinagsama-sama ang lahat ng programa at serbisyo patungkol sa administrative adoption at iba pang uri ng alternative child care gaya ng foster care.

Kasunod naman nito ang pagsasabatas ng R.A. 11767 o ang Foundling Recognition and Protection Law na automatic na nagbibigay pagkakakilanlan at mga karapatan sa isang foundling kung saan siya natagpuan.

Pinalalakas rin ng NACC ang Philippine Foster Care Program kung saan nabibigyan ng one-on-one care ang isang batang hindi pa na-aadopt.

Sa taong 2024, 1,108 na foster children ang nasa pangangalaga ng may nasa 927 na lisensyadong foster care parents. 871 sa kanila ay may subsidya mula sa NACC sa halagang P8,000 hanggang P10,000 depende sa medikal no kondisyon ng bata.

Samantala, 43 na foster children ang survivor ng Online Sexual Abuse/ Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), at 154 naman ay Children with Disability. 

Sa parehong taon, nakapag-hikayat ang NACC ng 89 LGUs upang makibahagi sa pagpapatupad ng mga programa nito at magbigay suporta at serbisyo para sa mga adoption and foster families sa buong bansa.

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PHOTOS:

Contact: Louisivi J. Oliva; OIC-Chief, Public Information Division

+63927 965 0318; ljoliva@nacc.gov.ph

 

NACC to partner with Generations Home, Care for Children on foster care

QUEZON CITY – The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) on Tuesday welcomed representatives from Generations-Home, Saddleback Church (USA), and Care for Children (UK) for a courtesy call and collaborative meeting on family-strengthening strategies held at the Sen. Pia Cayetano Hall of the NACC-Central Office here. 

The meeting, which aimed to foster multi-sectoral partnerships that transition alternative child care system from institutional or residential care setup to family-based setup, was attended by NACC Assistant Secretary Rowena Macalintal, Generations – Home Executive Director Chrina Henson, Partnerships Director Jasmine Buen, Care for Children founder Robert Glover, and Saddleback Church Pastor Max McGhee.

 

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Glover shared his expertise in the placement of children from institutional care to family-care in China. His groundbreaking work began in 1998 when the UK government funded his consultancy with the Shanghai Civil Affairs Bureau, leading to a national transformation of China’s childcare system. 

NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada, who was represented by Assistant Secretary Rowena Macalintal, also underscored the developments in the adoption and alternative child care landscape in the Philippines, and the agency’s commitment to the government’s deinstitutionalization policy.

“The expertise and insights shared by Glover, and other international delegates align with the NACC’s direction, and mission to uphold the best interests of every child through family-like care setup,” Macalintal said. 

“This partnership reinforces our shared goal of building a future where every child belongs to a loving family,” she added.

Representatives from Generations Home, Saddleback Church, and Care for Children expressed their enthusiasm in collaborating with the NACC to empower all vulnerable Filipino children and strengthening Filipino families.

 

PH’s NACC to host Asian Workshop for the child welfare, protection

MANILA – The Philippine Government through the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) is hosting the Regional Workshop on Sharing Experiences on the Effective Implementation of the 1993 Convention in Asia from March 11 to 13 at the Hotel Seda Manila Bay. The event is organized by the Permanent Bureau of the Hague Conference on Private International Laws (HCCH) and co-organized by the NACC. 

The regional workshop aims to assess the current implementation of the 1993 Adoption Convention in the region and share challenges and good practices related to its practical operation, with focus on the principle of subsidiarity.

 

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Participants to the workshop are representatives from Asian States that are Parties to the Convention of the Protection of Children and Co-operation in respect of Intercountry Adoption (1993 Adoption Convention) such as Cambodia, China, India, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and VietNam as well as States that are not yet Party to the Convention such as Laos and the Republic of  South Korea. 

“We are honored to host the 2025 regional workshop on sharing Experiences on the Effective implementation of the 1993 Adoption Convention in Asia. Upon the signing and ratification of the Convention in 1996, the Philippine Government has taken great strides in ensuring that the best interest of the children is the paramount consideration in adoption,” said NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada.

Among the topics to be discussed are the principle of subsidiarity and child adoptability, adoption procedure, intra-family adoptions, illicit practices in intercountry adoption, financial aspects in intercountry adoption, post-adoption matters, and other HCCH Children’s Conventions. 

“A child is only considered for inter-country adoption if there are no families within the region and within the Philippines that can be matched to these children and it is proven that inter-country adoption is the most suitable means of providing a permanent home for the child ,” explained Estrada.

“The Philippines’ adoption and alternative child care programs and services are consistent with the principles of the Convention. The provisions of R.A. 11642 or the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act institutionalized safeguard mechanisms to ensure full protection of children’s rights; and that inter-country adoption will only be resorted to after exhaustion of domestic placement,” Estrada added.

Non-Contracting Parties will also participate to learn more about the Convention and discuss its application with State Parties.

Members of the NACC Council will also participate along with representatives from non-government organizations that include NICEF Philippines and International Social Services (ISS).

The 1993 Adoption Convention is an international legal framework that “protects children and their families against the risks of illegal, irregular, premature or ill-prepared adoptions abroad. The Convention, which operates through a system of national Central Authorities, reinforces the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (Art. 21) and seeks to ensure that inter-country adoptions are made in the best interests of the child and with respect for his or her fundamental rights. It also seeks to prevent the abduction, the sale of, or traffic of children”. To date, there are 106 Contracting Parties to this Convention  including the Philippines, where the Convention entered into full effect in 1996.

The NACC was established by virtue of R.A. 11642, as a one-stop quasi-judicial agency under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to formulate policies and implement streamlined programs and services on the declaration of a Child Legally Available for Adoption, Domestic Adoption, Inter-Country Adoption, and other forms of alternative child care such as foster care, kinship care, family-like care and residential care.

In 2024, the NACC’s Inter-Country Adoption Program received 137 adoption decrees, and entrusted 97 children with foreign adoptive parents. The adoption decrees signifies the recognition of the adoption of the children by the government of the receiving states.

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Contact: LOUISIVI J. OLIVA

OIC-Chief, Public Information Division

+63927 965 0318; ljoliva@nacc.gov.ph

 

NACC determined to develop more foster parents this 2025

VALENZUELA – The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) commenced its series of foster care program orientation for prospective foster parents in Valenzuela last February 26 to 27. Valenzuela is one of the 89 Local Government Units (LGU) to sign a partnership agreement with the NACC.

A total of 22 prospective foster parents were educated on the concepts and methods of Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). TBRI is an attachment-based, trauma-informed intervention that is designed to meet the complex needs of vulnerable children.

NACC and the City Government of Valenzuela encouraged the participants to open up their homes for children assessed eligible for foster care who were abandoned, neglected, orphaned, abused or exploited.

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“Ang layunin ng foster care ay makapagbigay ng pansamantalang pangangalaga sa mga batang nangangailangan ng pamilya. Marami pa pong mga bata ang tumatanda sa mga Bahay Ampunan na kayang-kaya nating bigyan ng pagmamahal. Kung kaya naman po natin, subukan po natin ang foster care,” said NACC Assistant Secretary Rowena Macalintal.

To date, there are 1,108 children who are cared for by our 927 licensed foster parents. 871 foster children receive monthly subsidies from the NACC while 237 are under the care of volunteer licensed foster parents.

The NACC, established under Republic Act No. 11642, is the Philippines’ central authority on Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care (AACC). All government programs on the declaration of a Child as Legally Available for Adoption, Domestic Administrative Adoption, Inter-Country Adoption, and other forms of Alternative Child Care such as foster care, kinship care, family-like care, and residential care have been streamlined under the NACC for simpler, streamlined, expeditious, and inexpensive processes.

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Contact: LOUISIVI J. OLIVA

OIC-Chief, Public Information Division

+63927 965 0318; ljoliva@nacc.gov.ph

 

NACC to develop foster families for survivors of online sexual abuse or exploitation

The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) partnered with the International Justice Mission (IJM), and Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM) to develop foster families for victim-survivors of Online Sexual Abuse And Exploitation Of Children (OSAEC) through a tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed last 23rd of  January 2025.

NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada, represented by Assistant Secretary Rowena Macalintal, expressed her gratitude to the first ever-partnership to specifically cater to the survivors and create an organized network of support for foster families of OSAEC – CSAEM victim-survivors who can be better cared of by licensed and trained foster parents.

“Thank you so much for taking up this noble cause, this noble mission, together with the NACC and the IJM and our child protection groups… Sa dinami-dami ng inyong mga activity sa simbahan ay binuksan pa ninyo ang inyong puso at inyong pinto para mangalaga sa mga batang nangangailangan ng isang mapagmahal at ligtas na pamilya,” said ASec. Macalintal.

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As of 2024, 43 out of 871 foster children receiving monthly subsidies are survivors of OSAEC-CSAEM, who are under the care of licensed foster parents.

This tripartite partnership with the IJM and the NCM ensures that victim-survivors of OSAEC-CSAEM assessed eligible for foster care can be finally referred for family care through foster care for a more holistic care and development of the child. 

The NACC, established under Republic Act No. 11642, is the Philippines’ central authority on Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care (AACC). All government programs on the declaration of a Child as Legally Available for Adoption, Domestic Administrative Adoption, Inter-Country Adoption, and other forms of Alternative Child Care such as foster care, kinship care, family-like care, and residential care have been streamlined under the NACC for simpler, streamlined, and inexpensive processes.

The NACC also works with stakeholders across all sectors to promote legal adoption and combat illegal adoption such as  “online baby selling”,  and other forms of child trafficking in the guise of adoption.

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Contact: LOUISIVI J. OLIVA

ljoliva@nacc.gov.ph

adoption@nacc.gov.ph

+639279650318

 

Estrada calls on netizens to mass report illegal adoption groups
NACC calls for public action against “online baby selling”

The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) urges the Filipino people to help dismantle Facebook groups that facilitate online baby selling. NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada calls on netizens to mass report these groups to protect children and uphold their rights.

“Our campaign against online baby selling is a shared responsibility of every Filipino. We cannot, in good conscience, allow these groups to operate and provide a platform for such criminal acts,” Estrada emphasized.

Since May of this year, the NACC’s efforts, in collaboration with the Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Center (PNP-WCPC), the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Center (DICT-CICC), and the National Bureau of Investigation Anti-Human Trafficking Division (NBI-AHTRAD), have resulted in the rescue of seven (7) children. Moreover, 16 out of 23 active Facebook groups facilitating “online baby selling” have been taken down.

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Remaining active Facebook groups

To date, seven (7) Facebook groups are still facilitating discussions on “online baby selling”:

FACEBOOK GROUPS

MEMBERS

LINK

Legal Child Adoption PH

10.6K

https://www.facebook.com/groups/787761800128983

Bahay Ampunan Group

5.5K

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1281949259260803/

Mga wla pang anak, na gusto na mgkaanak

14K

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1632663426992212




Child Adoption Center Philippines

6.5K

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2222333554775707/

LEGAL ADOPTION PHILIPPINES

1.3K

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1236831467170265

SURROGATE MOTHER PHILIPPINES

6.8K

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1312103469220105/members

Child Adoption Philippines

10.4K

https://www.facebook.com/groups/227345600054872

 

“Together, we can put an end to the practice of illegal practice. Let’s unite as one community, and ensure that every Filipino child grows up in a safe and loving environment,” Estrada stated. “I urge everyone to help us take down these groups.”

The NACC also appeals to the public to report other groups engaging in similar activities. Beyond mass reporting, the NACC encourages citizens to report incidents of baby selling to local authorities such as the PNP, Local Social Welfare and Development Offices (LSWDOs), and Barangays.

A simplified adoption process under the NACC

The NACC, established under Republic Act No. 11642, is the Philippines’ central authority on administrative adoption and alternative child care. All government programs on the declaration of a Child Legally Available for Adoption (CDCLAA), Domestic Adoption, Inter-Country Adoption, and other forms of Alternative Child Care such as foster care, kinship care, family-like care, and residential care have been streamlined under the NACC for simpler, streamlined, and inexpensive processes.

The NACC also works with stakeholders across all sectors to promote legal adoption and combat illegal adoption such as  “online baby selling”,  and other forms of illegal adoption.

 

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Contact:

LOUISIVI J. OLIVA

ljoliva@nacc.gov.ph

adoption@nacc.gov.ph

+639279650318

 

NACC signs MOU with DSWD formalizing data-sharing for Minors Travelling Abroad (MTA) system

The NACC proudly joins the DSWD and key partner agencies in formalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) system.

With this collaboration alongside the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the Philippine Center on Transnational Crime (PCTC), the MTA system ensures a streamlined, secure, and efficient process for issuing travel clearances to minors traveling abroad without their parents or guardians.

As we embrace digital innovation, NACC remains committed to protecting children from potential risks while ensuring their welfare is prioritized at every step.

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NACC succesfully conducts 2024 Foster Care Congress

The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) successfully concluded the 2024 Foster Care Congress for the Visayas-Mindanao and Luzon Clusters!

With the theme ‘KAYA Ko: Kaalaman at Abilidad, Yamang Angkin Ko!’, the Congress brought together over 240 foster parents, foster children, social workers, and key government officials to strengthen the foster care system in the Philippines.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our foster families, government partners, and LGUs who made this Congress possible. Together, let’s continue to provide a brighter future where #EveryChildMatters.

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NACC, Quezon City LGU Partners for Domestic Administrative Adoption, Foster Care

QUEZON CITY – The National Authority of Child Care (NACC), through its Regional Alternative Child Care Office (RACCO) – National Capital Region (NCR), has signed the first Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the City of Quezon on November 29, Friday, for the implementation of the Domestic Administrative Adoption and  Foster Care Program.

“This MOA signing symbolizes our commitment to work together for the children and ensure that adoption and foster care reaches more families here in Quezon City,” said Undersecretary Janella Ejercito-Estrada, in her speech. 

Quezon City is the first LGU to sign partnership agreement for the implementation of the NACC’s domestic administrative adoption and foster care program. Previously, NACC ties up with LGUs through the PFCP whereby the agency commits to the development of additional foster care parents and to provide support mechanisms especially on basic social services such as medical and healthcare, livelihood assistance, and other basic social services.

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With the agreement, adoption and alternative child care will be easily accessible to the prospective adoptive parents through the local government of Quezon City. 

Estrada also urged the City Government of Quezon and the child welfare sector to focus efforts on preparing children coming of age for independent living through the NACC’s KAYA Ko: Kaalaman at Abilidad, Yamang Angkin Ko! Program. This is a life skill capability building program for children who can no longer be adopted because they are aging out already.

The event was attended by key officials, including City Mayor Joy Belmonte, City Vice-Mayor Gian Sotto, and NACC Assistant Secretary Rowena Macalintal together with NACC RACCO – NCR Officer-In-Charge Dan Gatmaitan.

To date, there are 1,106 foster children placed with some 897 licensed foster parents. 634 are subsidized ranging from Php8,000 to Php10,000 depending on the child’s medical condition. 

The NACC recently concluded its 2024 Foster Care Congress for the Visayas-Mindanao and Luzon Clusters on November 4 to 6 and November 19 to 21 November, respectively, which was actively participated in by 81 foster families together with 77 foster children.

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NACC, DAVAO DE ORO LGU PARTNERS FOR FOSTER CARE

MONKAYO, DAVAO DE ORO – The National Authority of Child Care (NACC), through its Regional Alternative Child Care Office (RACCO) – Davao Region , has signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the municipality of Monkayo on Davao de Oro November 29 for the implementation of the Philippine  Foster Care Program (PFCP). 

“This MOA signing symbolizes our commitment to work together for the children and ensure that foster care reaches more families,” said Undersecretary Janella Estrada, in a recorded speech. 

PFCP is the NACC’s tie-up program with the LGUs whereby the agency commits to the development of additional foster care parents and to provide support mechanisms especially on basic social services such as medical and healthcare, livelihood assistance, and other basic social services.

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Estrada also urged the Municipality of Monkayo and the child welfare sector to focus efforts on preparing children coming of age for independent living through the NACC’s KAYA Ko: Kaalaman at Abilidad, Yamang Angking Ko! Program. This is a life skill capability building program for children who can no longer be adopted because they are aging out already.

The event was attended by key officials, including Municipal Mayor Manuel “Way Kurat” E. Zamora, Municipal Vice-Mayor Manuel B. Brillantes Jr., and NACC RACCO – DAVAO REGION Officer-In-Charge Miss Eden Macalino and NACC Representative Cessna Macula.

To date, there are 81 foster children placed with some 53 licensed foster parents in the Davao region. 78 are subsidized ranging from Php8,000 to Php10,000 depending on the child’s medical condition.

The NACC recently concluded its 2024 Foster Care Congress for the Visayas-Mindanao and Luzon Clusters on November 4 to 6 and November 19 to 21 November, respectively, which was actively participated in by 81 foster families together with 77 foster children.

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NACC, Occidental Mindoro LGU Partners for Foster Care

SAN JOSE, OCCIDENTAL MINDORO – The National Authority of Child Care (NACC), through its Regional Alternative Child Care Office (RACCO) – MIMAROPA, has signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the municipality of San Jose in Occidental Mindoro on November 26 for the implementation of the Philippine  Foster Care Program (PFCP). 

“This MOA signing symbolizes our commitment to work together for the children and ensure that foster care reaches more families here in San Jose,” said Undersecretary Janella Estrada, in her speech. 

PFCP is the NACC’s tie-up program with the LGUs whereby the agency commits to the development of additional foster care parents and to provide support mechanisms especially on basic social services such as medical and healthcare, livelihood assistance, and other basic social services.

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Estrada also urged the Municipality of San Jose and the child welfare sector to focus efforts on preparing children coming of age for independent living through the NACC’s KAYA Ko: Kaalaman at Abilidad, Yamang Angking Ko! Program. This is a life skill capability building program for children who can no longer be adopted because they are aging out already.

The event was attended by key officials, including Municipal Mayor Rey C. Ladaga, Municipal Vice-Mayor Santiago V. Javier Jr., and NACC RACCO – MIMAROPA OIC Miss Cyrene P. Lubrico.

San Jose is the 83rd LGU to seal a Memorandum of Agreement with the NACC. To date, there are 15 foster children placed with some 10 licensed foster parents in the municipality. 14 are subsidized ranging from Php8,000 to Php10,000 depending on the child’s medical condition.

The NACC recently concluded its 2024 Foster Care Congress for the Visayas-Mindanao and Luzon Clusters on November 4 to 6 and November 19 to 21 November, respectively, which was actively participated in by 81 foster families together with 77 foster children.

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Contact:

Ms. CYRENE LUBRICO

OIC-RACCO MIMAROPA

+639305610221

 

 

Estrada decries “online baby selling,” says it is unacceptable, disturbing

As part of the intensified efforts to end online baby selling, the Philippine National Police – Women and Children Protection Center (PNP-WCPC) successfully rescued a seven-month old baby from online baby selling in an entrapment and rescue operation last November 6, 2024 in San Jose, Rodriguez, Rizal.

According to the PNP report, a Facebook account claiming to be Cloie Mae Cruz, in FB group “Legal Child Adoption Group Ph” sent a private message to the undercover agent and subsequently offered  the seven-month old baby in exchange for P35,000. The suspect reportedly sent photos of the infant and invited the alleged buyers to visit him at her place of residence. 

 The PNP-WCPC’s Luzon Field Unit, together with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Montalban, Rizal, swiftly conducted a rescue operation and arrested the 29-year-old suspect in her residence. The infant was given immediate medical attention.

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“No matter the reason, child exploitation is unacceptable and is disturbing,” said Janella Ejercito-Estrada, Undersecretary of the National Authority for Child Care (NACC).

The NACC chief vowed to bring more perpetrators behind bars. Since May this year, the NACC, PNP-WCPC, Department of Information and Communication Technology – Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (DICT-CICC), and National Bureau of Investigation Anti-Human Trafficking Division (NBI-AHTRAD) rescued six (6) children and apprehended six (6) suspects in separate operations nationwide.

“We will not stop. The NACC’s priority is to end illegal adoption whether online or physical.  We will ensure that justice will be served and that the children are safe,” stressed Estrada.

Last June, the NACC and the PNP-WCPC partnered with the DICT-CICC in intensifying surveillance and shutting down of accounts and online FB sSgroups that facilitate online baby selling and illegal adoption.

From 23 Facebook groups and accounts facilitating baby selling in February this year, 14 have been taken down while nine (9) active Facebook groups are classified as actionable intelligence.

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60-Year-Old MAN’S ADoPTION FINALIZED UNDER RA 11222

QUEZON CITY – In a unique case, the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) finalized the adoption of Ranello A. Anis, a 60-year-old man, under Republic Act (RA) No. 11222, also known as the Simulated Birth Rectification Act (SIBRA).

The adoption order was issued on August 13, 2024, and officially finalized on September 5, 2024. The certificate of finality was awarded by NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada and Assistant Secretary Rowena M. Macalintal during the Advanced Capability Training on Adoption and Alternative Child Care, and Related Laws held on September 11 at the Sequoia Hotel. 

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Ranello Anis had been raised by his mother, Pacita A. Anis, his entire life, but it wasn’t until October 24, 2023, that they formally filed the petition to correct his birth records. This was after a case was filed against him by a relative, and revealed that his birth certificate had been falsified or simulated.

RA 11222 helps correct such cases, where birth records are tampered with to show that a child was born to parents who aren’t the biological ones. This law allows families to fix these documents, protecting the legal rights of the adoptee.

“Mahalaga ang mapanatili at maprotektahan ang legal na estado ng isang ampon. Kapag ang mga birth records ay peke, nalalagay sa panganib ang legal na pagkakakilanlan at kinabukasan ng ampon. Sa pamamagitan ng RA 11222, naitatama ang mga birth records upang mabigyan ng tamang pagkakakilanlan ang mga ampon tulad ng kaso ni Mr. Anis,” said Estrada.

RA 11222 also offers amnesty to adoptive parents who tampered records, giving them until 2029 to correct the documents without facing legal consequences. This allows families to secure the future of their children without fear of prosecution.

“Hinihikayat namin ang mga nagpeke ng birth records ng kanilang mga anak na lumantad at gamitin ang amnestiya habang ito ay available hanggang 2029. Ito ay isang bihirang pagkakataon upang maitama ang mga pagkakamali at masiguro ang kinabukasan ng inyong anak sa legal na aspeto,” Estrada added.

Parents who falsified birth records before March 2019 and have treated the child as their own for at least three years can apply for rectification. However, those who have falsified records after March 28, 2019, may face criminal charges, including imprisonment and fines.

Photo Caption: Mr. Ranello Anis rings the bell of joy at the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) – Central Office as Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada and Assistant Secretary Rowena M. Macalintal witness.

 

NACC Clarifies Adoption Process in Response to “Lolo and the Kid” Movie

Quezon City – The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) applauds the release of the film Lolo and the Kid, which has resonated with audiences for its touching portrayal of love and care within families.

The movie, starring award-winning actor Joel Torre and child actor Euwenn Mikael, tells the story of a grandfather who opens his heart to an abandoned child, highlighting the importance of compassion and providing a home to those in need.

However, the NACC wishes to clarify that certain aspects of the adoption process depicted in the film are not aligned with the legal procedures mandated by Republic Act 11642, also known as the “Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act of 2022.”

 

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While the themes of love, family, and belonging are powerfully represented, Lolo and the Kid inadvertently presents an incorrect adoption process.

The NACC believes it is essential for the public to be fully informed of the proper steps to legally and ethically adopt a child, in accordance with RA 11642.

RA 11642 outlines the proper adoption process, which includes the declaration of a child legally available for adoption, a thorough assessment of prospective adoptive parents, a home study report, child matching, and post-adoption monitoring. These steps are crucial in ensuring that every child is placed in a loving and secure home while the adoptive family is adequately supported throughout the journey.

NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada, in response to the film, emphasized the importance of following the proper legal processes.

“We recognize the noble message of the movie Lolo and the Kid in promoting the importance of giving children a home filled with love. However, we must emphasize that adoption is a delicate legal process that put into paramount consideration the best interest of the child,” she said.

“The NACC is committed to providing the necessary guidance and assistance to families so that the journey to adoption is legal, ethical, and beneficial to all parties involved,” she added.

Undersecretary Estrada further stressed the need for public awareness: “It is crucial for the public to be aware of the legal frameworks in place to protect children. Adoption, when done properly, safeguards the child’s right to a loving family while also ensuring that prospective parents are fully prepared for the responsibilities of parenthood. Misinformation about adoption can lead to unintended consequences, which we hope to avoid through continued education and public engagement.”

 

The NACC remains committed to working with local government units (LGUs), child-caring agencies, and other stakeholders to enhance the delivery of adoption and alternative child care services.

NACC decries misleading, unlawful depiction of adoption, foster care in new film “DEAR SATAN”

QUEZON CITY – The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) decried the “misleading” and“unlawful” depiction of adoption and foster care as a form of alternative child care in the controversial film “Dear Satan.”

In a statement, NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada expressed disappointment on the new film “as it runs counter to the NACC’s mandate in informing and educating the public on the legal mechanisms of adoption and alternative child care and in creating a positive environment for adoption through the mass media.

“It is unfortunate that while “Dear Satan” implores artistic freedom, the film runs counter to the NACC mandate and diminishes the successes and milestones painstakingly earned by the government, child welfare professionals, and other NACC stakeholders in ensuring that the general public is aware and an active participant to the legal process of adoption,” Usec. Estrada stressed.

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“Along with the streamlining of adoption and alternative child care programs and services, it is our duty to raise public awareness on the legal process of administrative adoption and alternative child care and debunk connotations and illegal practices that pose threat against the safety of a child in need of a steady and a happy family,” Usec. Estrada said.

“’Dear Satan’ validates the longstanding illegal practices of adoption such as choosing a child and haphazardly taking her/him home, and that there is no need for training, licensing and preparation of Prospective Adoptive Parents (PAPs) and foster parents,” Estrada explained.

“The best interest of a child is always put into paramount consideration in deciding upon the most suitable method of alternative child care such as domestic adoption, inter-country adoption, foster care, kinship care, family-like care, or residential care,” Estrada stressed.

Usec. Estrada further explained that the entrustment or placement of a child is assessed and decided through a matching process conducted by an independent multi-disciplinary panel of experts called as the Regional and Inter-Regional Matching Committees. The matching committees are composed of medical doctors, child psychologists, lawyers, and a representative from volunteer organization(s) that caters to child welfare.

Estrada also emphasized that a PAP or foster parent must undergo appropriate training, counselling, evaluation and preparation before being issued a license to be entrusted or placed with a child. “It is our duty to ensure that a PAP or foster parent is willing and capable of nurturing a child’s holistic development and that the personal decision to adopt or provide foster care to a child is not merely based on whims and caprices,” she stressed.

“On foster care alone, ‘Dear Satan’s screenplay is a sheer disregard of due diligence and complete staff work in depicting a credible story, more so the noble lifelong work of our social workers and partner Child Caring and Child-Placing Agencies. They do not conduct themselves as “Dear Satan” depicts them. It is unconscionable if not an insult,” Estrada lamented.

The NACC is the Philippine’s central authority on administrative adoption and alternative child care established by virtue of Republic Act No. 11642 or the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act. All government programs such as the declaration of a Child Legally Available for Adoption, Domestic Adoption, Inter-Country Adoption, and other forms of alternative child care such as foster care, kinship care, family-like care, and residential care have been streamlined under the NACC for simpler, streamlined, and inexpensive processes.

R.A. 11642 further mandates the NACC to collaborate with various National Government Agencies – including the mass media – in creating a positive environment for adoption and alternative child care.

Among the NACC’s advocacy programs include the Proud AMPON Campaign intended to curb the stigma of adoption, LeaGUe of heroes that establishes linkages and partnerships with Local Government Units (LGUs) nationwide to better reach and serve its target beneficiaries, and disseminate its fight against online baby selling vis-à-vis illegal adoption, Trafficking-in-Person and child abuse or exploitation.

#NACC #everychildmaters #everychilddeservesafamily #inthebestinterestsofthechild #AdoptionisLove

Quirino LGUs benchmark NACC’s adoption, foster care programs

Quezon City — In a significant step towards strengthening the adoption and alternative child care programs in the level of their local government units (LGUs), provincial officials, social workers, and educators from the Province of Quirino participated in the benchmarking, and knowledge-sharing session with the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) last August 21, Wednesday.

The activity aimed to foster collaboration and enhance the quality of child care services provided by local government units in Quirino.

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NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “This benchmarking session is an opportunity for us to learn from each other, and to strengthen our collective efforts in providing the best possible care for all vulnerable Filipino children. The lessons we take away from this event will be invaluable in shaping the future of child care programs, and services in our country.”

“Our primary goal is to ensure that the most vulnerable children in our society—those who are abandoned, neglected, surrendered, dependent, orphaned, abused, and exploited children, or otherwise in need of special protection — receive the highest quality of care and support from the government,” Estrada said.

The delegation from the Province of Quirino was headed by Daisy V. Garcia, Provincial Early Childhood Care Department (PECCD) head, and included Municipal ECCD Focals Vivian Sabado, Glory P. dela Cruz, and Relyn Lawani; educators and workers from the National Child Development Center (NCDC) Quenie A. Santos, Flordeliza O. Palding, Lalaine P. Kimmayong, and Whriz Debhrey D. Sagun; municipal social workers Theresa Mauricio, RSW, Mary Rose Valiente, and Geraldine Pugong, RSW; documenter Marinette G. Saballa; and support staff Ricky Tesoro and Michelle Ellorin.

The Province of Quirino engaged the NACC on the discussions which focused on the latter’s programs, best practices, challenges, and opportunities in implementing adoption and alternative child care programs.

The delegation also visited the Hospicio de San Jose, a level 3 accredited child caring institution in the city of Manila, and benchmarked its operations, and best practices of the orphanage, with the goal of replicating these successful strategies in their LGUs.

Estrada added, “Kailangan natin ang tulong ng local government units, our partners from child caring agencies, pati na ang mga private organizations para maging mas malakas ang impact ng ginagawa natin para sa mga bulnerableng mga bata na pinaglilingkuran natin.”

The NACC, established under Republic Act No. 11642, is the central authority overseeing domestic adoption, inter-country adoption, and alternative child care in the Philippines.

 

17 kids join 2024 Summer Hosting Program in USA

QUEZON CITY – A total of 17 select children from Special Home Finding (SHF) from 11 regions from various child caring agencies (CCAs), residential care facilities (RCFs), and some from foster care will join this year’s Summer Hosting Program which will be held next month in various states in the United States of America.

The annual Summer Hosting Program, which is organized by the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) in partnership with two (2) US-accredited Foreign Adoption Agencies (FAAs), will take place from August 12 to September 11. These children will spend their summer vacation with approved host families for three to four weeks.

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Initiated in 2004 with the help of a US-accredited FAA, Estrada added that the Summer Hosting Program will address the higher urgency to find permanent families for older
Filipino children, and sibling groups, aged eight (8) to 15, who have already been cleared for inter-country adoption.

“It is our firm belief that every child deserves a safe and supportive environment to thrive, and initiatives like the Summer Hosting Program play a crucial role in realizing this vision,” Estrada said.

Children will have a chance to experience life in a family setting, participate in various activities, and increase their chances of being adopted.

Senior social workers Ryan Bilo, Cathyrine Piol, and Kristine Abel, of Inter-Country Adoption Division (ICAD) of the NACC will accompany the delegation, and will serve as their escorts.

“I send my well wishes to all the children who are part of the Summer Hosting Program.
I hope they find this experience enriching, and fulfilling,” Estrada said.

 

The 3rd Consultative Meeting with partner-stakeholders

The 3rd Consultative Meeting with partner-stakeholders on the implementation of adoption, and alternative child care programs in all social work agencies (SWA) and residential-based facilities catering to children was held today at the Department of Social Welfare, and Development (DSWD)-Central Office in Quezon City.

This was facilitated by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian.

National Authority for Child Care (NACC) Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada, and Assistant Secretary Rowena Macalintal attended the meeting, and provided inputs on various concerns on adoption, and alternative child care.

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Also joining are Undersecretary for Standards Capacity Building Group (SCBG) Denise Florence Bernos-Bragas, Assistant Secretary for SCBG Janet Armas, and Association of Child Caring Agencies (ACCAP) President Atty Gwendolyn Pimentel-Gana.

Officials, and representatives from various Child Caring Agencies (CCAs), and Residential-Based facilities were also in attendance

Photo Credits: DSWD

#NACC #everychildmatters #everychilddeservesafamily #inthebestinterestofthechild

23 Visayas LGUs to sign MOA for foster care program at NatCon

CEBU CITY – At least 23 local government units from regions 6, 7, and 8 will ink partnership agreement with the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) for the implementation of the Philippine Foster Care Program (PFCP) when the last leg of the 1st National Congress on Adoption, and Child Care for the Visayas
Cluster opens at the Harold’s Evotel here. NACC Undersecretary and Executive
Director Janella Ejercito Estrada said she is elated with the overwhelming support of the LGUs for the NACC’s programs, and services for the vulnerable Filipino children.

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LGUs that are confirmed to sign partnership agreements with NACC include: Tapaz, Capiz, Pototan, Iloilo, New Lucena, Iloilo, Naval, Biliran, Mina, Iloilo, Miagao, Iloilo, Jordan, Guimaras, Tobias Fornier, Antique, Dumarao Capiz, City of Roxas, Capiz, Himamaylan City, Madridejos, Cebu, Santa Fe Cebu, City of Talisay, Cebu, City of Naga, Cebu, Asturias, Cebu, Candijay, Bohol, Alicia, Bohol, Guindulman, Bohol, Sogod, Southern Leyte, Culasi, Antique, Alimodian, Iloilo, and Pinamungahan.

The PFCP memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing is one of the highlights of the National Congress organized by the NACC in partnership with the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC).

Estrada said that the National Congress is an avenue to cascade to the LGUs the importance of the implementation of adoption, and alternative child care services, and programs at the grassroots level.

“Right from the start, the NACC has already identified the crucial role that LGUs play to ensure the success of our campaigns, and initiatives. We need the help of all LGUs at the grassroot level to make it happen,” Estrada said.

“Naniniwala ako na kapag tayo ay sama-sama, mas malaki ang impact ng ating mga ginagawang programa para sa mga batang nangangailangan ng pamilya,” she added.

CWC Usec. Angelo Tapales, Cebu City Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, and League of Cities in the Philippines (LCP) President Michael Rama are some of the invited officials.

Topics such as domestic adoption procedures, Simulated Birth Rectification Act, alternative child care, especially the Philippine Foster Care Program, the inclusion of adoption and alternative child care programs as part of the sub-indicators and rating system of the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA), Makabayan Helpline, and Updates on the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act will be discussed during the National Congress.

LGUs from North, and Central Luzon vow to support NACC programs

CLARK, Pampanga – The 1st National Congress on Adoption, and Child Care for the North, and Central Luzon came to a successful close last Thursday at the Royce Hotel here.

Some 300 participants representing 133 municipalities, and cities from Regions 1, 2, 3, and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) attended the national congress organized by the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) in partnership with the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC).

The NACC has successfully stressed to the LGUs the importance of the implementation of adoption, and alternative child care services, and programs at the grassroots level.

NACC Undersecretary and Executive Director Janella Ejercito Estrada, in her closing message, also urged LGU officials to prioritize, and implement programs, and services that will ultimately protect the best interest of children.

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“Alam ko na kayo ang nararapat at bukod tanging makakatulong upang mas maging epektibo ang mandato at mga programa ng NACC,” Estrada said.

“Naniniwala ako sa inyong dedikasyon bilang mga ama at ina ng inyong pinamumunuan. Tayo ang magsisilbing tinig at boses ng mga pinaka-kawawang batang ito. Upang muli ay manumbalik ang pag-asa sa buhay na hinaharap at haharapin pa nila,” she added.

 

Meanwhile, the LGUs of Baguio City, Berlig, Mountain Province, Conner, Apayao, Luba, Abra, Bauang, La Union, Cervantes, Ilocos Sur, Laoac, Pangasinan, Laoag, Ilocos Norte, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, Santa Barbara, Pangasinan, Santol, La Union, Tagudin, Ilocos Sur, Alfonso Castaneda, Nueva Vizcaya, Amulung, Cagayan, Sto. Nino, Cagayan, Reina Mercedes, Isabela, Floridablanca, Pampanga, and Porac, Pampanga signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the NACC for the implementation of the Philippine Foster Care Program (PFCP) while more than 20 LGUS also pledged their commitment for the adoption and implementation of the PFCP.

CWC Undersecretary Angelo Tapales, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 3 Regional Director Venus Rebuldela, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-III Assistant Regional Director Jay Timbreza, CESO V, and Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Atty. Ethel Marie Degollado-Guiua also graced the event.

 

Topics such as domestic adoption, inter-country adoption, Simulated Birth Rectification Act, alternative child care, especially the Philippine Foster Care Program, the inclusion of adoption and alternative child care programs as part of sub-indicators and rating system of the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA), and the Makabayan Helpline were the highlights of the discussions during the National Congress.

LGUs of NCR, South Luzon to implement adoption, alternative child care programs

MANILA – More than a hundred local government units joined the 1st National Congress on Adoption, and Child Care for the National Capital Region (NCR), and Southern Luzon held last May 22 and 23 at the Rizal Park Hotel here.

Some 200 participants representing municipalities, and cities from NCR, Region IV-A, MIMAROPA, and Bicol regions attended the national congress organized by the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) in partnership with the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC).

At the close of the National Congress, the NACC has successfully stressed to the LGUs the importance of the implementation of adoption, and alternative child care services, and programs at the grassroots level.

NACC Undersecretary and Executive Director Janella Ejercito Estrada, in her closing message, also urged LGU officials to prioritize, and implement programs, and services that protect the best interest of children.

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“Alam ko na kayo ang nararapat at bukod tanging makakatulong upang mas maging epektibo ang mandato at programa ng NACC sa pamamagitan ng child-friendly ordinances, projects, and programs,” Estrada said.

“Naniniwala ako sa inyong dedikasyon bilang mga ama at ina ng inyong pinamumunuan. Tayo ang magsisilbing tinig at boses ng mga pinaka-kawawang batang ito. Upang muli ay manumbalik ang pag-asa sa buhay na hinaharap at haharapin pa nila,” she added.

 

Meanwhile, the LGUs of Puerto Gallera, Narra, Ligao City, and Masbate City signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with NACC for the implementation of the Philippine Foster Care Program (PFCP) while at least 10 LGUs, including Gumaca, Macalelon, Quezon, Tagkawayan, San Jose, Valenzuela City, Magdiwang, Odiongan, Legazpi City, and Polangui also pledged their commitment for the adoption and implementation of the PFCP.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian was the keynote speaker while CWC Undersecretary Angelo Tapales, DSWD Usec. Emmeline Aglipay Villar, Department of Justice (DOJ)’s National Coordination Center against Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM)’s Senior Assistant City Prosecutor Agatha Zapanta-De Jesus, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-NCR Regional Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, CESO III, and Quezon City Councilor Geleen Lumbad also graced the event.

 

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte along with Senators Grace Poe, Jinggoy Estrada, Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Sherwin Gatchalian, and Loren Legarda expressed their message of support to the NACC.

Topics such as domestic adoption procedures, Simulated Birth Rectification Act, alternative child care especially the Philippine Foster Care Program, the inclusion of adoption and alternative child care programs and services in the sub-indicators and rating system of the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA), and the best practices of the Quezon City LGU were the highlights of the discussions during the National Congress.  

Newborn baby sold at Facebook rescued

QUEZON CITY – As part of the intensified efforts to combat the proliferation of Facebook groups, and accounts facilitating illegal adoption, a seven-day old baby was rescued while two suspected child traffickers were arrested, in a police entrapment operation in Dasmariñas City, Cavite last May 15, Wednesday.

A 29-year-old woman who claims to be the biological mother sold her then seven-day old baby for P90,000.00 through a middle person who claims to be an employee of the City Government of Dasmariñas. Allegedly the supposed mother, and the agent agreed on a P50,000 – P40,000 sharing.

In a covert operation, the PNP Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) Anti-Trafficking in Person Division intercepted the act of child trafficking. The suspects have already been subjected to inquest proceeding last Thursday, May 16 at the Department of Justice (DOJ).

The rescued baby is now under the custody of a child caring agency (CCA), and is constantly monitored by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-CALABARZON Field Office, and by the NACC.

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Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian, during the Monday’s press conference, said that children must not be treated as commodities.

“The Republic Act (RA) 11642, or the Domestic Administrative Adoption, and Alternative Child Care Act of 222 was precisely created to make the adoption process faster, and simpler. We will not tolerate these illegal activities. We will punish these individuals, and groups to the full extent of the law,” Gatchalian said.

NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada, for her part, said the agency’s priority is “to stop this online baby selling on Facebook, and social media accounts to rescue the infants, and bring the perpetrators before the courts of law.”

All police personnel involved in the operation were awarded with certificates of commendation by the DSWD, and the NACC

Cambodia benchmarks NACC’s best practices on adoption, and alternative child care

QUEZON CITY – The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) hosted a knowledge sharing meeting for the delegates of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans, and Youth Rehabilitation from the Kingdom of Cambodia to discuss best practices on domestic administrative adoption, inter-country adoption, and alternative child care.

The officials were on a study tour in the Philippines from 14 to 16 May as arranged by Holt International, and Kaisahang Buhay Foundation, Inc. The knowledge sharing meeting was held at the NACC – Central Office.

The visiting delegates were particularly interested in understanding the domestic and inter-country adoption, and foster care program in the child welfare system as well as the roles and responsibilities of the relevant authorities, and partner non-government organizations.

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The NACC was represented by NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada, Assistant
Secretary Rowena M. Macalintal along with Domestic Adoption Division (DAD) chief Imelda Ronda, Inter-Country Adoption Division (ICAD) chief Gina Escalante, and Alternative Child Care Division (ACCD) chief Cessna Macula.

The Cambodian delegates were headed by His Excellency Men Socheth, Secretary of State, His Excellency Hach Hean, Undersecretary of State, His Excellency Din Borey, Director of General Department of Social Services, Phi No, Director of Child Protection Department, and Sao Samphois, Director of Inter-Country Adoption Administration (ICAA).

Holt-USA program manager Ghazwa Ayyad, Holt-Cambodia program manager Ung Pola, provincial manager Soy Socheat, and social work coordinator Ty Raksmey, together with Kaisahang Buhay Foundation, Inc. (KBF) Executive Director Glady Q. Bunao, KBF alternative child care department program supervisor Rachel Bismonte, and case management consultant Minnie Dacanay also participated in the meeting.

Estrada commended the Cambodian delegates’ willingness to learn improved policies, and systems in domestic adoption, inter-country, and alternative child care.

“We hope we learned from each other’s successes, overcome those challenges, and ultimately create a better future, and opportunities for these children,” Estrada said.

“We look forward to future collaborations, and partnerships with the Kingdom of Cambodia for the well-being of the abandoned, neglected, surrendered, dependent, orphaned, abused, and exploited children,” she added.

Socheth, for his part, thanked the NACC for facilitating such insightful discussions during the study visit. Macalintal, for her part, also highlighted the accomplishments of the agency since it’s establishment in 2022, including the Philippine Foster Care Program, the Bell of Joy, and the National Congress on Adoption, and Alternative Child Care.

The day was concluded with the showing of the short video clip on the NACC’s Proud AMPON campaign while tokens, and certificates were exchanged by the NACC and the Cambodian delegates. 

Mindanao LGUs join 1st National Congress on Adoption, Alternative Child Care

DAVAO CITY – A total of 200 participants from 124 cities, and municipalities from Mindanao joined the recently-concluded 1st National Congress on Adoption and Alternative Child Care for Mindanao cluster organized by the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) in partnership with the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) last May 7 and 8 at the Acacia Hotel here.

Of the 124 local government units (LGUs). 29 were from Zamboanga Peninsula, 24 from Northern Mindanao, 31 from Davao region, and 20 each from Soccsksargen, and Caraga.

NACC Undersecretary and Executive Director Janella Ejercito Estrada, in her closing remarks, reiterated her call of support from the local government units in the implementation of adoption, and alternative child care programs, and services of the NACC.

“Kinakailangan namin ang inyong tulong at suporta upang mas mapalawak, at mas mapabilis maabot ng ating programa at serbisyo ang mga nangangailangang batang Pilipino, and the role of LGUs in all of aspects of public service cannot be overemphasized,” Estrada said.

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“We are really grateful to all mayors, and city, and municipal social welfare development officers for being part of this National Congress. This is just the start of more work to be done for the benefit, and welfare of all Filipino children,” she added. Themed, “Building a LeaGUe of AMPON Heroes for Children,” the National Congress gathered participants, local chief executives, social workers, and stakeholders from all five regions of Mindanao.

NACC also signed partnership agreements for the implementation of the Philippine Foster Care Program (PFCP) with 10 LGUs, namely: Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte, Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental, Talisayan, Misamis Oriental, Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, Polomolok, South Cotabato, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, Lianga, Surigao del Sur, and Marihatag, Surigao del Sur. Assistant Secretary Rowena M. Macalintal, for her part, thanked all the participants for their shared commitment, and advocacy for the welfare of the Filipino children.

Established under Republic Act 11642, NACC’s programs cover domestic administrative adoption, inter-country adoption, alternative child care, rectification of simulated birth certificate, Philippine Foster Care Program, and the recognition, and protection of foundlings.

Lectures on the Philippine Foster Care Program, requirements, and processes of Domestic Administrative Adoption, Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit, Simulated Birth Rectification, and Anti-Child Trafficking were tackled. Senators Bong Revilla, Grace Poe, and Jinggoy Estrada, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, DILG Undersecretary Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, and National Coordination Center of Anti- Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Executive Director Margarita Magsaysay gave their messages of support to the NACC.
Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) chief of the Monitoring and Evaluation Division

Dr. Jovertlee Pudan, Department of Social Welfare Development (DSWD) regional director Atty. Vaness Goc-ong, Inter-Agency Council against Trafficking (IACAT) Assistant Regional Prosecutor Ritzel Polinar, and DILG Assistant Regional Director Lailyn Ortiz are some of the guests who graced the event.

Panagbenga Festival to highlight legal adoption, foster care

BAGUIO CITY — The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) announced its participation in the 2024 Panagbenga Grand Floral Float Parade to raise public awareness about the NACC, legal adoption, and foster care.

“We are here to encourage more Filipino families in the Cordillera Administrative Region and all throughout the Philippines to open up their homes and provide love and care to abandoned, neglected, dependent, surrendered, orphaned, abused, and exploited children needing adoption or foster care. As of December 2023, there were 54 children assessed under the care of two (2) child care facilities in the CAR. Thirty-One (31) of them were assessed eligible for adoption,” said Estrada.

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“The CAR remains to be the one of the most active region participating in administrative adoption and alternative child care. As of December 2023, 19 children were issued with Certificate Declaring a Child Legally Available for Adoption (CDCLAA), 28 children were placed for domestic adoption, 2 children were placed for inter-country adoption, and 56 children were placed to licensed foster parents,” Usec. Estrada explained.

NACC revealed its participation to the 2024 Panagbenga Grand Floral Float Parade with a super hero-themed float with super hero characters namely “Super Ampon” and “Wonder Foster”. “We decided on a superhero-theme because raising a child takes heroic strength and courage. To us, Prospective Adoptive Parents and Foster Parents are the true heroes of abandoned, neglected, dependent, surrendered, orphaned, abused and exploited children,” said NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada. NACC Ambassador Mr. Jake Ejercito is also joining the NACC superhero float to promote the NACC, Domestic Administrative Adoption and alternative child care in the Philippines.

As of the latest, 40 NACC ambassadors have volunteered to promote legal adoption and foster care. NACC ambassadors are known celebrities and influential individuals who excel in their art and respective industry and who have volunteered to help NACC promote administrative adoption and alternative child care. NACC is a newly established quasi-judicial agency attached to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) by virtue of R.A. 11642 or the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act. All government programs and services pertaining to adoption and alternative child care have now been streamlined through the NACC to enable expeditious and affordable legal adoption process and alternative child care.

To conclude, Usec. Janella Ejercito Estrada mentioned “walang problema sa pag-aampon, walang masama sa salitang ampon, dahil lahat tayo ay nabibilang sa AMPON: Anak, Magulang, Pamilya, Ordinaryo pero Natatangi, Proud AMPON! And the NACC is very happy to be a part of one of the nation’s grandest cultural events, the Panagbenga Festival.”

SINULOG FESTIVAL TO HIGHLIGHT ADOPTION, ALTERNATIVE CHILD CARE

Cebu City — The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) announced its participation in the 2024 Sinulog Festival to raise public awareness on legal adoption, foster care, and other forms of alternative child care.

“We are here to encourage more Cebuano families in the Central Visayas Region and all throughout the Philippines to open up their homes and provide love and care to abandoned, neglected, dependent, surrendered, orphaned, abused, and exploited children needing adoption or foster care. As of December 2023, there are 354 children assessed under 13 child care facilities in Region VII. Ninety-four (94) of them were assessed for adoption,” said Estrada.

“Region seven remains to be the largest in terms of number of facilities and the number of children provided with alternative child care. As of December 2023, 36 children were placed for adoption, 114 foster children were served, and there were 58 children issued with Certificate Declaring a Child Legally Available for Adoption,” Usec. Estrada explained.

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NACC revealed its participation to the Sinulog 2024 Grand Parade with a superhero-themed float. On board will be superhero mascots namely “Super Adopt” and “Wonder Foster”. “Superhero theme because raising a child takes heroic strength and courage. To us, Prospective Adoptive Parents and Foster Parents are the heroes of abandoned, neglected, dependent, surrendered, orphaned, abused and exploited children,” said NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada.

“As adoptive and foster parents, they are heroes who have the courage to extend love, support and sacrifice to the children who need them. They do their share in making our country a much safer place for our children, our youth and for the entire Filipino society,” Estrada added. NACC Ambassadors Julia Clarete, Wendell Ramos, OPM artist Top Suzara, and Fil-Am actor Thou Reyes are also joining the NACC superhero float. As of the latest, 40 NACC ambassadors have volunteered to promote administrative adoption, foster care, and alternative child care.

NACC ambassadors are known and influential individuals who excel in their art and respective industry and who have volunteered to help NACC promote administrative adoption and alternative child care. NACC is a newly established quasi-judicial agency attached to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) by virtue of R.A. 11642 or the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act. All government programs and services pertaining to adoption and alternative child care have been streamlined through the NACC to enable an expeditious and affordable legal adoption process and alternative child care.

To conclude, Usec. Janella Ejercito Estrada mentioned, “Walang problema sa pag-aampon, walang masama sa salitang ampon, dahil lahat tayo ay nabibilang sa AMPON: Anak, Magulang, Pamilya, Ordinaryo pero Natatangi, Proud AMPON! And the NACC is very happy to be a part of the nation’s grandest and most festive religious and cultural event, one of my most favorite festivals, the Sinulog Festival.”


Abandoned, surrendered children’s reunification to biological family still priority

CALAMBA CITY – After almost four (4) years in waiting for an adoptive family to be matched, two children ages six (6) and eight (8) years old were finally reunited to their maternal grandmother on Tuesday, 09 January 2024. Late last year, the maternal grandmother expressed her desire to care and take custody of the children. This was supported by a favorable Parenting Capability Assessment Report (PCAR) conducted by the City Social Services Department (CSSD) of Calamba City, Laguna.

To enable the reunification, a Certificate Declaring a Child Legally Available for Adoption (CDCLAA) was cancelled by the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) on December 27, 2023. The Regional Alternative Child Care Offices NCR and Region IV-A coordinated with White Cross, a Child Caring Agency, and the Local Social Welfare Development Office of Calamba City to extend assistance to the family that include counselling, monitoring, and provisions for various government interventions to assist the family as it starts anew.

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“This reunification is our first this year, and is something to celebrate as we pursue our mandate to safeguard the sanctity of Filipino families – acknowledging the fact that family is the best carer of a child and only when no appropriate placement or adoption within the child’s extended family is available, shall adoption by other persons be considered,” Usec. Estrada explained.

On the other hand, the NACC recently celebrated its second founding anniversary with the passage of Republic Act No. 11642 or the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act on 06 January 2021. R.A. 11642 established the NACC as a quasi-judicial agency attached to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The NACC now has the exclusive and original jurisdiction on all matters pertaining to domestic administrative adoption, inter-country adoption, and other forms of alternative child care. All duties, functions and responsibilities of the DSWD and the then Inter-Country Adoption Board (ICAB) have been streamlined under the NACC to ensure that administrative adoption process for the cases of legally-available children, relative, stepchild, and adult adoptees is the most
expeditious option and will redound to their best interest.

As of January 8, 2024, NACC has provided 738 children with alternative child care, 544 of which were placed in the loving arms of families through intercountry adoption, domestic administrative adoption, alternative child care, or foster care. NACC currently has 16 RACCOs nationwide – acting as duty-bearers of the NACC mandate by providing services for domestic administrative adoption, rectification of simulated birth certificates, Philippine foster care program, and other methods of alternative child care programs.


Central Authority on adoption, alternative child care celebrates second anniversary,
Confers public service award

PARAÑAQUE CITY – 146 employees and officers of the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) were conferred public service award as part of the Agency’s second founding anniversary celebration on January 08, 2024.

The NACC public service award includes 2023 Employee of the Year, Government Service Award, Team Player Award, Leadership Award, Program Management Award, Early Bird Award Hero of the Year, Innovative Award, Rookie of the Year Award, and Customer Service Award. Those who have served at least five (5) years were also given recognition. Three (3) employees were also recognized for their lifelong work at 42 years of service in the Government.

Regional Alternative Child Care Office – CARAGA Administrative region (RACCO-CARAGA) was awarded as best RACCO for 2023 based on its exemplary performance in public service delivery and in carrying out the NACC mandate on administrative adoption and alternative child care at the regional level.

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In her keynote speech, NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada stressed that the award and recognition is to “honor NACC employees’ service to the Filipino Children and to the Filipino society.”

Usec. Estrada explained that the sacrifice, hard work and dedication of NACC employees were not put in vain as 738 children were provided with alternative child care, 544 of which were placed in the loving arms of a family.

“544 na bata ang natulungan na makapag-aral, makapag-pagamot, magka-bahay, magkaroon ng magandang kinabukasan, at magkaroon ng magulang at pamilyang kabi-bilangan,” explained Usec. Estrada. “We expect them to develop in a positive environment and to have a bright future, because of you” Usec. Estrada added.

Republic Act No. 11642 or the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act was signed on 06 January 2021 – establishing the NACC as a quasi-judicial agency attached to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The NACC now has the exclusive and original jurisdiction on all matters pertaining to domestic administrative adoption, inter-country adoption, and other forms of alternative child care.

All duties, functions and responsibilities of the DSWD and then Inter-Country Adoption Board (ICAB) relating to administrative adoption and alternative child care have been streamlined under the NACC to ensure that administrative adoption processes for the cases of legally- available children, relative, stepchild, and adult adoptees are the most expeditious and will redound to their best interest.

NACC currently has 16 RACCOs nationwide – acting as duty-bearers of the NACC mandate by providing services for domestic administrative adoption, inter-country adoption, rectification of simulated birth certificates, Philippine foster care program, and other methods of alternative child care such as kinship care and residential care.


NACC, dumalo sa Singapore National Day

Dumalo ang mga kinatawan ng NACC sa Singapore National Day 2023 na pinangunahan ng Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Manila. Ang tema ngayong taon ay “Onward as One”. Ang Singapore ay tahanan ng mahigit 200,000 Filipinos na mga pawang residente at manggagawa sa kanilang lungsod. Ang Pilipinas at Singapore ay may 55 taon nang magkasama na itinataguyod ang iisang layunin at aspirasyon.

2024 National Budget ng DSWD, dininig ng mga mambabatas

Sumalang sa Budget Deliberation noong nakaraang linggo ang DSWD at mga attached at supervised agencies, kabilang ang NACC sa Kongreso sa pangunguna ni Sec. Rex Gatchalian. Dumalo ang mga kinatawan ng NACC na sina Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada at Assistant Secretary Madeline Arezu Jam.

NACC SULONG SA GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (GAD) AGENDA

Ang Magna Carta of Women (Republic Act No. 9710) ay tinutukoy ang Gender and Development Program (GAD) bilang pag sulong ng pananaw at proseso na magbi-bigay kapangyarihan, matuwid, pagpapanatili, at malayo sa karahasan, respeto sa karapatang pantao, suporta sa determinasyon sa sarili at akwtalisasyon ng potensyal ng tao. Layunin nitong makamit ang gender equality bilang pangunahing importansya na magsa salamin sa pagpili sa kapakanan at mapanindigan na ang kababaihan ay aktibong alagad ng kaunlaran, at hindi taga-tanggap lamang ng pag-unlad at progreso. Tampok ng GAD sa Gender Mainstreaming ang: - Patas na benepisyo ng mga babae at lalaki patungkol sa kanilang alalahanin at karanasan bilang mahalagang parte ng implementasyon, pagsu-suri ng polisiya at programa at mga proyekto na pang lipunan, politikal, sibil at larangan ng ekonomiya. - Pagbibigay halaga at pagsu-suri ng implikasyon ng mga kababaihan at kalalakihan sa anumang planadong aksyon kasama ang lehislasyon, polisiya at programa sa lahat ng larangan at antas. Ang implementasyon ng GAD sa mga ahensya ng gobyerno ay galing sa batas at Presidential issuances.

Unang bahagi ng Five-Year Strategic Plan ng NACC, sinimulan na

Alinsunod sa pagpapa-lawak ng tungkulin ng National Authority for Child Care (NACC), isang Five-year Strategic Plan ang isinagawa para sa pagsasa-ayos ng lahat ng programa, proseso, aktibidad at rekurso upang makamit ang mga layunin at matiyak na ang NACC at Regional Alternative Child Care Office (RACCO) ay mapag tulungan ang mandato na naka atas sa ilalim ng Republic Act No. 11642. Isinagawa ang unang bahagi ng strategic plan, ang Component 1: Environmental Scanning and Situational Analysis (SWOT) Analysis and Rapid Performance Review ang NACC sa patnubay ng Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP).

AKBB MOA Signing with LGU-Pres. Manuel A. Roxas

Nagsagawa ng MOA Signing ang LGU ng President Manuel A. Roxas sa pamumuno ni Hon. Ismael A. Renquijo Jr. at NACC na pinamumunuan ni Usec. Janella Ejercito Estrada para sa Aruga at Kalinga para sa mga Bata sa Barangay (AKBB). Ang AKBB ay isa sa mga foster care programs ng NACC kung saan naglalayong makabuo ng mas maraming foster families sa mga komunidad o barangay. Ito rin ang kauna-unahang MOA sa pagitan ng LGU at NACC.

BISIG-KLETA, a bike ride for a cause to support Alternative Child Care Week. #EveryChildMatters

MANILA - As part of the end of the celebration of Adoption and Alternative Child Care Week, the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) will hold an uplifting bike ride for a cause called BISIG-kleta in partnership with Cycle House PH and Go for Gold. ...

A New Era in Adoption and Alternative Child Care: #EveryChildMatters

MANILA - The process of adoption has been streamlined under R.A. 11642 and administered by the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) so it wouldn't be a painful and tedious process for the adoptive parent applicants. There are 5,053 children in child caring agencies and 1,245 of them are available for adoption. “Clearly, these children are placed in a situation nobody would want to be in. But their innocence, their hopefulness and their faith that good things that will change their lives are sure to come..." stated NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada....

CEREMONIAL SIGNING OF THE IRR OF RA11767​

Nilagdaan noong Biyernes, ika-9 ng Setyembre, Implementing Rules and Regulations ng Republic Act 11767 o mas kilala bilang
Foundling Recognition and Protection Act sa pangunguna nina DSWD Secretary Erwin T. Tulfo at NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada. Ang RA11767, ay ang batas na kumikilala at nagbibigay ng karapatan sa mga foundlings, o mga batang iniwan, inabandona, o pinabayaan, na kilalanin bilang isang natural-born Filipino at magtamasa ng pantay na karapatan ng isang batang Filipino na may kinikilalang magulang.

Quirino LGUs benchmark NACC’s adoption, foster care programs

Quezon City — In a significant step towards strengthening the adoption and alternative child care programs in the level of their local government units (LGUs), provincial officials, social workers, and educators from the Province of Quirino participated in the benchmarking, and knowledge-sharing session with the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) last August 21, Wednesday.

The activity aimed to foster collaboration and enhance the quality of child care services provided by local government units in Quirino.

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NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “This benchmarking session is an opportunity for us to learn from each other, and to strengthen our collective efforts in providing the best possible care for all vulnerable Filipino children. The lessons we take away from this event will be invaluable in shaping the future of child care programs, and services in our country.”

“Our primary goal is to ensure that the most vulnerable children in our society—those who are abandoned, neglected, surrendered, dependent, orphaned, abused, and exploited children, or otherwise in need of special protection — receive the highest quality of care and support from the government,” Estrada said.

The delegation from the Province of Quirino was headed by Daisy V. Garcia, Provincial Early Childhood Care Department (PECCD) head, and included Municipal ECCD Focals Vivian Sabado, Glory P. dela Cruz, and Relyn Lawani; educators and workers from the National Child Development Center (NCDC) Quenie A. Santos, Flordeliza O. Palding, Lalaine P. Kimmayong, and Whriz Debhrey D. Sagun; municipal social workers Theresa Mauricio, RSW, Mary Rose Valiente, and Geraldine Pugong, RSW; documenter Marinette G. Saballa; and support staff Ricky Tesoro and Michelle Ellorin.

The Province of Quirino engaged the NACC on the discussions which focused on the latter’s programs, best practices, challenges, and opportunities in implementing adoption and alternative child care programs.

The delegation also visited the Hospicio de San Jose, a level 3 accredited child caring institution in the city of Manila, and benchmarked its operations, and best practices of the orphanage, with the goal of replicating these successful strategies in their LGUs.

Estrada added, “Kailangan natin ang tulong ng local government units, our partners from child caring agencies, pati na ang mga private organizations para maging mas malakas ang impact ng ginagawa natin para sa mga bulnerableng mga bata na pinaglilingkuran natin.”

The NACC, established under Republic Act No. 11642, is the central authority overseeing domestic adoption, inter-country adoption, and alternative child care in the Philippines.

 

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