Together with Ms. Ma. Paula S. Gallardo, RSW, LCPC Focal and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Office (DSWD) the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) is implementing social services in the province of Surigao del Sur. On August 17, 2022, at Shacene Pension House and Restaurant, Mabua, Tandag City an orientation was conducted on Republic Act 11642 or the Alternative Parental Care Program for Social Workers who handle adoption from the different Municipalities.

The goals of the aforementioned activity were to understand the recently passed laws, memorandum circulars, and recent issuances on adoption and foster care, to raise issues and concerns regarding their implementation, to classify roles and functions in accordance with RA 11642, and to address procedural issues that transcends across agencies. The orientation also aims to ensure that service providers of alternative child care are familiar with and comprehend the Domestic Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act, Memorandum Circular 03 series of 2022, and other relevant issuances.

Hershe L. Nuñez, RSW, OIC-PSWDO, opened the event with a welcome speech and stated that handling adoption is difficult, especially since it is a drawn-out procedure. She exhorts the participants to think about the wellbeing of the kids who are their main customers. The dialogs from RA 11642 by Thesa Joy B. Musa, RSW, RACC officer, came next. The conversations only center on in-depth discussions about RA 11642. She also goes over the specific forms that are required and how to complete them in accordance with the rules and regulations. Ms. Musa guaranteed the participants for technical assistance anytime they need it.

Submitted by Junie A. Bapor Jr., RSW