Lapu-lapu city: The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) has reported the issuance of 2,271 domestic adoption orders, alongside 509 adoption decrees and 524 certificates of authority for intercountry adoption as of June 3.

According to Philippines News Agency, the NACC highlighted that 1,086 foster children are currently under the care of licensed foster parents across the nation. Among these children, 747 receive monthly government subsidies ranging from PHP8,000 to PHP10,000, based on their medical requirements.

Since the beginning of 2023, 170 children in Central Visayas have been declared legally available for adoption. Out of these, 81 have been placed with permanent families within the Philippines, while 74 continue to be cared for by licensed foster parents. Overall, 327 children in the region have benefited from adoption and alternative child care programs during this period.

The NACC disclosed these statistics during the 18th Philippine Global Consultation on Intercountry Adoption and Alternative Child Care, which took place from June 30 to July 2 in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

During the event's opening ceremony, NACC Undersecretary Maria Gabriela Concepcion emphasized the importance of renewing commitment to advancing adoption and alternative child care programs in light of evolving demographics, family structures, values, technology, and systems. Concepcion stressed the necessity of maintaining high standards of child protection in a globally connected environment and adapting policies to ensure the welfare of children remains a priority.