The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 7–Central Visayas reiterated its commitment to protecting children’s rights and enhancing adoption and alternative child care services. This reaffirmation took place during the 18th Global Consultation on Inter-Country Adoption and Alternative Child Care, which was held in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, on July 2, 2026.

In her message of support, DSWD-7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero, CESO III, highlighted the agency’s longstanding commitment and best practices in handling adoption cases. She also emphasized that the global consultation serves as a valuable platform for enhancing adoption and alternative child care services through collaboration and the exchange of best practices.

“It is an honor and a deeply personal privilege to express our support for this 18th Global Consultation. Throughout my career—from handling adoption cases as a social worker, participating in regional and international placement deliberations with the former Inter-Country Adoption Board, taking part in ICAB’s Summer Program in the United States, and now supporting the Regional Alternative Child Care Office—I have witnessed how this Global Consultation has helped shape ethical, child-centered inter-country adoption and alternative child care systems worldwide.”

RD Lucero also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting every child’s right to grow up in a safe, loving, and permanent family.

“As we move forward, may this consultation continue to foster innovation, stronger partnerships, and more inclusive participation from all stakeholders committed to protecting every child’s right to grow up in a safe, loving, and permanent family. On behalf of DSWD Field Office 7, I reaffirm our commitment to this shared mission. Together, let us continue building a future where every child finds not just a home but a family,” RD Lucero added.

As part of the activity, delegates participated in a learning visit to the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) in Barangay Labangon, Cebu City, where they gained firsthand insights into the facility’s operations, programs, and child care practices.

In June 2026, the RSCC received the Certification for Adoption and Alternative Child Care Programs and Services from the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) after successfully complying with the agency’s prescribed standards for the implementation of adoption and alternative child care programs and services.

The 18th Global Consultation gathered adoption and child care professionals, government agencies, and international partners to exchange knowledge, strengthen collaboration, and promote child-centered policies and practices that uphold the best interests of every child. ###