Nearly 300 advocates of legal adoption participated the 2016 Regional Adoption Consciousness Celebration launched by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) IV-MiMaRoPa in partnership with Provincial and City Social Welfare and Development Offices of Palawan last February 24, 2016 at Puerto Princesa City Coliseum.

In accordance with RA 9524, otherwise known as “An Act Requiring DSWD Certification to Declare a Child Legally Available for Adoption”, Adoption Consciousness Day aims to disseminate basic information about adoption and its legal process; strengthen partnership with other agencies advocating legal adoption; and recruit more adoptive families.

Gathering all legal adoption advocates, the celebration started with a brief opening program and sharing of adoption journey.

“The most difficult part of adoption is the adoption telling,” shared Marvi Trudeau, adoptive mother of Ainhi Trudeau.

On the other hand, Ainhi narrated that during the adoption process, she asked for the support of her friends especially when she was trying to find answers on why she was surrendered by her relatives for adoption.

Ainhi and Marvi generously answered the questions of prospective adoptive parents and students about their journey.

Showcasing adoption slogans promoting legal adoption, participants paraded around the Coliseum after the program.

As a highlight of the celebration, a ceremonial Commitment Setting was led by Ms. Lucila Padol, Social Welfare Officer III of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office.

Pink balloons which represent children not yet available for adoption were raised as a support for children’s immediate declaration as legally available for adoption.   All shouted that no child shall be adopted without going through the legal process.

After the celebration, the Prospective Adoptive Parents were invited at the Adoption Help Desk.   A two (2) hour dialogue with them was also conducted.   Some clarifications regarding adoption procedures and requirements were responded.

In support with the celebration, Occidental Mindoro Social Welfare and Development Team (SWADT) conducted Radio Announcement at DWDO Heart FM Radio Station during the program “ Para Sa Bayan”.   Ms. Jessie Jambalos, Social Welfare Officer I had one (1) hour airing of advocacy on adoption specifically on alternative parental care.

The theme for this year’s adoption celebration is “Legal na Ampon Ako: Anak na Too”.

###