Child care agency reiterates call for ethical, safe adoption systems

CEBU, Philippines — Amid evolving global challenges and demographic changes, the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) reaffirmed the country’s commitment to ethical, transparent, and child-centered adoption systems.

This comes as the agency gathered child welfare experts, government officials, and international partners in Lapu-Lapu City for the 18th Philippine Global Consultation on Inter-country Adoption and Alternative Child Care.

The consultation carried the theme, “Emerging Trends and Challenges in Inter-Country Adoption: Navigating the Future Together.”

The event brought together 49 global partners and 288 local stakeholders to discuss the changing landscape of inter-country adoption and alternative child care, while also strengthening international collaboration in protecting children’s welfare.

The consultation served as a platform for governments, child protection professionals, adoption authorities, and partner organizations to anticipate future needs, exchange best practices, and develop collaborative solutions that uphold the best interests of every child.

NACC Undersecretary Atty. Maria Gabriela “Gaby” Concepcion emphasized the need to renew the country’s commitment to adoption and alternative child care programs as demographics, family structures, technologies, and social systems continue to evolve.

“These developments present new opportunities, but they also require us to confront difficult questions. How do we maintain the highest standards of child protection in an increasingly interconnected world? How do we respond to changing realities without losing sight of the children at the center of our work? How do we build systems that remain responsive, accountable, and ethical amid rapid change?” Concepcion said.

In his keynote address, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian encouraged delegates to maximize the consultation by learning from one another, sharing good practices, and strengthening partnerships for children in need of care and protection.

“The DSWD stands with the NACC together with local, international and global partners in improving policies and ensuring that inter-country adoption remains ethical, responsive, and child-centered,” Gatchalian said.

The gathering featured plenary discussions on emerging issues, opportunities, and challenges in inter-country adoption, including good practices in adoption, post-adoption services, and support.

Participants also tackled the development of the NACC Universe digital ecosystem for adoption and alternative child care, standards for certifying social work agencies, and measures to ensure integrity throughout the adoption process.

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindy K. Chan welcomed the delegates through a recorded message, saying the gathering reflected a shared commitment among governments, child welfare professionals, adoption authorities, and advocates to ensure every child grows up in a safe, loving, and nurturing family.

She added that while the world continues to change, the responsibility to protect children remains constant, requiring innovative solutions, stronger international partnerships, and policies that always place children’s best interests at the center of decision-making.

Lapu-Lapu City Lone District Representative Junard “Ahong” Chan also reaffirmed the city’s support for the NACC’s programs, noting that the local government has worked closely with the agency and social workers in assisting neglected, trafficked, and abandoned children and helping them find permanent families through adoption.

“Today, many of these children are thriving in loving homes, enjoying the care, security, and opportunities they rightfully deserve,” the congressman said. “Their stories remind us that adoption does not merely change a child’s circumstances—it transforms lives, restores hope, and creates brighter futures.”

He described adoption as one of humanity’s most compassionate acts, giving children love, acceptance, security, stability, and a renewed sense of belonging.

Meanwhile, DSWD-Central Visayas Regional Director Shalaine Marie Lucero On also backed the agency’s commitment to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to belong to a permanent, caring, and loving family. — (FREEMAN)