Qualified members of the LGBTQIA+ community may legally adopt children under the country’s solo parent adoption program, with eligibility based on an applicant’s capacity to provide a safe and stable home rather than sexual orientation or gender identity.
The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) clarified this during an online press conference on June 9 held in line with the observance of Adoption and Alternative Child Care Week, which highlights legal adoption, foster care, kinship care, and other child care programs.
NACC Undersecretary Maria Gabriela Concepcion said LGBTQIA+ individuals may apply for legal adoption and undergo the same evaluation process required of other applicants, provided they meet the qualifications set by law.
“The LGBTQIA++ are eligible for the solo parent adoption program. Only one of the couples LGBTQIA++ can formally adopt,” Concepcion said.
According to Concepcion, the primary consideration in adoption proceedings remains the best interest of the child, including an applicant’s ability to provide care, emotional support, protection, and a stable family environment.
“There is no single face, form, or experience of a family,” she said, as the agency pushed for broader public understanding of family structures and child care arrangements.
Meanwhile, NACC Director for Operations and Services Imelda Ronda said family should not be defined solely by biology or traditional household structures, emphasizing the importance of safe and nurturing homes for children.
In line with this, the agency reiterated that domestic administrative adoption has been made more accessible to encourage legal adoption and help protect children from trafficking, illegal adoption schemes, and online baby selling.
Furthermore, Concepcion said the agency has received 204 petitions under the Simulated Birth Rectification Act, with applications for rectification of simulated birth records open until March 29, 2029.
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