How to Light the Way for "Orphans" and "Single Mothers" in the Philippines?

Recently, a series of family breakdowns caused by the deportation of foreign nationals have occurred in the Philippines. Some mothers have become single mothers after their partners were deported, and due to their full-time caregiving responsibilities, they lack financial resources and find themselves in survival difficulties. Meanwhile, many children have been left behind as "left-behind children" after their fathers were deported. Some children have even become orphans with no one to care for them.

In light of this situation, many kind-hearted people living in the Philippines hope to adopt these children and offer them a new chance at life. However, legal adoption in the Philippines requires a series of strict processes and regulations. In this article, we will explain the specific requirements and steps for foreigners to adopt children in the Philippines.

Applicable Laws for Adoption

Foreign nationals adopting Filipino children must adhere to the Inter-Country Adoption Act (Republic Act No. 8043) and its implementing rules and regulations. This law aims to provide abandoned or orphaned children with suitable families, offering the love and support they need to grow.

Qualifications for Adopters

Foreign nationals wishing to adopt a child must meet the following basic qualifications:

1. Age Requirement

• The adopter must be at least 27 years old and at least 16 years older than the child to be adopted. (This age requirement is not applicable if the adopter is the child's biological parent or their spouse.)

2. Marital Status

• If married, both spouses must apply together.

3. Mental and Legal Capacity

• The adopter must be capable of assuming the parental rights and responsibilities as defined by the laws of their home country and must undergo appropriate counseling from a recognized counselor in their country.

4. No Criminal Record

• The adopter must not have any criminal history related to moral turpitude.

5. Compliance with International Guidelines

• The adopter must come from a country with diplomatic relations with the Philippines. The country should have similar adoption agencies and allow inter-country adoption.

6. Other Requirements

• The adopter must have the financial capability to support the child and provide moral education.
• The adopter must agree to uphold the rights of children as stipulated in Philippine laws and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, as well as comply with relevant rules and regulations.

Adoption Process

1. Contact the Inter-Country Adoption Board (ICAB)
   The adopter must submit their application to the ICAB.

2. Submit Required Documents
   Below are the key documents required for adoption (in English):

   • Application Form
   • Undertaking
   • Information Data Sheet
   • Self-Report Questionnaire
   • Home Study Report
   • Birth Certificate
   • Marriage Certificate
   • Certification from the Department of Justice or other relevant government agencies stating that the adopter meets the adoption qualifications in their country, and that the child can be adopted for trial and long-term residence.
   • Written consent from biological children or adopted children above the age of 10
   • Physical and Mental Health Certificates
   • Psychological Evaluation
   • Income Statements
   • Police Clearance
   • Character References (e.g., from local religious leaders, employer, neighbors, or community members who have known the adopter for at least five years)

3. Matching Process
   ICAB will match the adopter with a suitable Filipino child based on the child’s and adopter’s profiles.

4. Trial Custody Period
   The child will live with the adopter for a period to evaluate the suitability for permanent living.

5. Submit Adoption Petition
   The adopter must file a formal adoption petition with the Philippine courts. Upon approval, the adopter will receive an Adoption Decree.

6. Additional Steps
   Participation in adoption forums, training, and lectures, and other related certifications are also required.

Adoption-Related Costs

1. Travel Expenses
   This includes the costs for transporting the child back to the adopter's country, as well as any related travel within the Philippines.

2. Document Fees

   • Passport, Visa
   • Medical Examination
   • Psychological Evaluations and other necessary documents

Special Reminders

• Foreign nationals who have lived in the Philippines for at least five years are eligible for adoption under the same conditions as Filipino citizens, provided they meet the same qualifications as Filipino nationals.
• The adoption process is designed to prioritize the protection of children’s rights.
• The Philippines emphasizes the right of every child to have a family and strives to provide a loving home for every abandoned or neglected child.
• Adopters must fully understand the adoption requirements and proceed through legal channels.

Conclusion

Every child deserves a warm home and a bright future, especially those who are in difficult situations and need help. Through legal adoption processes, not only can a child’s destiny be changed, but they can also be given a fresh start filled with love and care. Adoption is not just about helping these children; it’s also about fulfilling a social responsibility.

If you are considering adoption, please make sure to go through the proper legal channels. While the adoption process is strict, it ensures the best interest and future happiness of the child.

If you have any questions or need more information about the adoption process, please feel free to contact our professional team. We will provide comprehensive legal support and guidance. Every act of kindness you offer is a beacon of hope for these children as they begin a new life.