Adopting from the Philippines

By: Daniel Green

When choosing to adopt a child, some prospective parents make the decision to adopt from the Philippines. The process can be long and full of bureaucratic red tape. Adopting from a country where the American culture is accepted and embraced is a main reason for many couples who adopt from the Philippine nation.

With Philippines adoptions children age ranges between four months and twelve months, older children are always available as well. There are equal boys than girls to adopt. The majority of children are healthy, although there is a problem with malnourished children in this impoverished land.

The country in Southeast Asia asks that married couples should be married for at least three years. People who have been divorced before may adopt as long as they have divorce decrees. To qualify for a Philippines adoption you must be at least twenty years older than the child you wish to adopt. Adoptive parents under fifty years old are allowed to adopt a baby, while parents over fifty years old can only adopt older children. In Philippines adoptions parents who have a large family already may not be allowed to adopt, while parents with no children are not allowed to be gender specific

The time frame for a Philippines adoption is not possible to approximate. In 2007 Philippines passed new adoption laws. Philippines adoptions have been moderate but may be slowing down, due to the rise in other country adoption programs. Philippines is a poverty stricken, densely populated country. These conditions have resulted in children being left abandoned or orphaned.

Once your home study has been accepted you will start to get referrals with pictures and medical information. When you have decided on a referral you can gather and compile your dossier. The dossier will be sent to the Filipino authorities also known as ICAB (Intercountry Adoption Board) to be looked over. Once the dossier has been approved by ICAB you will be able to go to Philippines to pick up your child. Only one parent is required to travel but it is recommended that both parents travel to south east Asia and visit. Your stay in Philippines will usually be anywhere from ten to fourteen days. While adoption costs vary, the total cost including agency fees, visas and embassy fees, foreign fees, courier fees, home study fees, documentation fees, hotels, and plane tickets, is cheaper than other countries.

Religious beliefs in Philippines are similar as they are here. Christianity (Catholics) seems to be the largest religion in Philippines. But the Filipino also believe in Islam, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism. Their main food source is rice. The Filipinos are extremely good at preparing vegetarian meals.

Interest in Philippines adoptions have held steady throughout the years. The Philippines culture attibutes the lack of increase in foreign adoptions since grandparents, aunts and uncles, and extended family tend to care for children who have lost their parents.

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