DSWD puts up adoption inquiry desks in 2 malls

CEBU – Adoption desks have been put up in selected malls to handle inquiries from those interested to adopt children and eventually help end child abuse.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development-7 yesterday set up desks in SM City Cebu and Robinson’s Place Mall where essential information on the adoption processes of kids currently under the care of the DSWD, and other related concerns, are provided.

The move was done in observance of the “Adoption Consciousness Day” pursuant to Proclamation No. 72. This year’s theme is “Legal Adoption: Pagmamahal sa Batang Pinoy” which appeals to all qualified adoptive parents to adopt a Filipino child so the latter would be able to live with a family, enjoy the warmth of a home, and be assured of a brighter future.

Separate adoption inquiry desks will be installed in the cities of Dumaguete and Tagbilaran.

In relation to the goal of ending all sorts of abuses towards children, the DSWD invites the public to be part of the advocacy and observe the Child Sexual Abuse and Prevention Week from today, February 8 to 14.

This year’s theme is “Sexual na Pang-aabuso sa Bata, Nangyayari Saan Man: Karahasan Dapat Wakasan.” It aims to promote awareness on the problem of child sexual abuse and exploitation and participate in the nationwide campaign to prevent these abuses.

DSWD would like to instill in the consciousness of the public the respect for laws and ordinances related to the welfare of children so that the public may be aware of the children’s rights and the things children should be enjoying.

The public is urged to be vigilant in protecting the welfare of the children by participating in the surveillance and the reporting of suspected cases to the DSWD and other law enforcement agencies. Hence, wrongdoings may be known and given immediate, appropriate action.

For this year, DSWD will tap schools and other educational institutions to integrate in their curriculum the fundamental topics on child abuse and exploitation.

And in various means, DSWD will orient all sectors of society regarding Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and other laws on the problem of sexual abuse and exploitation.

In cooperation with its partner government and non-government organizations, DSWD-7 prepared a lineup of activities for the week-long celebration.

Aside from the hanging of streamers, DSWD and concerned groups will conduct inter-barangay and interschool drives. The youth will also be asked to participate by carrying out campaigns among their peers.

There will also be radio visits, television appearances, media forum, exhibits in malls, contests, distribution of advocacy materials, and online forums. — Jessica Ann R. Pareja/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)