DSWD Calls for More Foster Parents RA 10165

Posted on 01 August 2013. In adherence to Republic Act 10165 otherwise known as Foster Parents Act, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 1 announced the need to increase the number of foster parents. Foster parents shall be responsible to take care of the abused, abandoned, neglected and surrendered children from DSWD as stipulated in RA 10165. As reported, there are 21 licensed foster parents with children in their custody . Republic Act 10165 seeks to institutionalize and promote foster care by giving foster parents and donor agencies tax incentives. The foster parent can reflect the child as his dependent for tax exemption. Also, the child can be enrolled as dependent in PhilHealth for medical security. With DSWD, a monthly subsidy amounting to Php 2,000.00 for each fostered child will be provided. However, as need arises, other support services could also be extended. In a Forum recently concluded by DSWD, it was agreed that a pool of foster parents will be created to readily accept children for foster care. As explained, the law provides respite care whereby a foster parent can take a rest for a week and place temporarily his foster child to other licensed foster parents. More importantly, DSWD Dir. Marcelo Nicomedes J. Castillo reminds the interested individuals/couples to imbibe willingness and kindness in this endeavour as this is a call for social responsibility and social justice for children who could be the future leaders and nurturers of mankind. Furthermore, Social Welfare Office IV Clarivel Banzuela informed the needed requirements for foster parents application are as follows: birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), medical certificate, police/NBI clearance, any proof of income and family picture. (By: Iryn D. Cubangbang, Information Officer II)