RACCO XI strengthens advocacy for abandoned infants
BY KISHA MICA BARDAGO/UM Intern
THE REGIONAL Alternative Child Care Office (RACCO) Xl, strengthens its advocacy to promote child care and protection for abandoned infants across Davao.
In a press conference on April 14, Jennyluz Coma, Social Welfare Officer ll of RACCO Xl, emphasized the agency’s commitment to raise awareness about the Republic Act 11767, also known as Foundling Recognition and Protection Act.
This law ensures the rights and welfare of foundlings—children who are abandoned in public places without any legal documents or proof of birth.
With the support from local government units (LGUs) and City Government of Davao, the office is working in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development ( DSWD) and other accredited foster centers to provide safe havens for these children.
Since 2022, RACCO XI has recorded 24 cases of foundlings in the Davao Region.
Of these, 16 children have already been matched with adoptive parents, two are currently undergoing the matching process, and six are undergoing legal procedures to be declared available for adoption.
“One foundling child is considered a problem gyud sya no, kailangan nato ug proper intervention na gyud and program sa atong community ( One foundling is considered a problem, so it is essential for us to have proper interventions and programs from our community),” Coma said.
The advocacy aims to collaborate with schools, barangays, and health workers to conduct seminars and implement community-based interventions that address the issue.
