A TOTAL of 75 children in the Davao Region are currently under alternative child care as foster children, according to the Regional Alternative Child Care Office in Davao (Racco-Davao) on June 5.

Based on the data of Racco-Davao, focal person for foster care Jane Plana said these children are paired with licensed foster parents. Currently, there are 47 families in Davao Region that are active foster parents.

“Under foster care, naga-atiman ta og mga bata na (we take care of kids who are) abused, rescued, neglected, and abandoned children. Ang pagiging licensed foster parents is voluntary (Being foster parents is voluntary),” Plana said during the Kapehan sa Davao media forum.

She added that the foster care program is usually to help children in need while their parents or guardians are unable to provide care and resources for the children.

Children under alternative care, typically infants, stay with foster parents for three to six months or six months to one year, depending on the situation.

Foster parent Anie Gortina said the usual duration of stay of foster children under her care is two years.

“Maguol ko (when the child leaves) but ma-ilisan man pud og bagong bata (I get sad when the foster child leaves but they are replaced immediately by a child in need). Ganahan gyod ko og bata (I really like children),” Gortina said.

Plana said foster parents receive a subsidy from the government of up to P10,000 to assist with the finances for taking care of foster children. She added that a foster family can receive up to three foster children.

The basic requirements include barangay certificate, police clearance, medical certificate, recent family picture, and proof of income. They also undergo mandatory orientation and background checks. ICM