The DSWD Standards Bureau (SB), in collaboration with the National Authority for Child Care (NACC), conducted a two-day online orientation focused on enhancing standards within adoption and alternative child care (AACC) programs nationwide held from July 10 to 11, 2025.

The two-day online session provided a comprehensive understanding of two (2) issuances: DSWD Memorandum Circular No. 7, Series of 2025 or the “Guidelines for the implementation of adoption and alternative child care programs in all public and private residential-based social work agencies catering to children.” This sets the operational benchmark for care delivery.

Meanwhile, NACC Memorandum Circular No. 3, Series of 2024 or the “Guidelines on the certification of adoption and alternative child care programs and services in all public and private social work agencies,” ensures agencies meet necessary certification requirements.

The orientation on these memorandum circulars are instrumental in enhancing standards and ensuring the effective and ethical delivery of AACC programs of public and private residential-based Social Welfare Agencies (SWAs) catering to children across the country.

The joint effort underscores the commitment of both the DSWD and the NACC to ensure that every child under institutional care receives the highest quality of protection and support.

The activity saw the presence of key officials, including Undersecretary for Regulatory Services and Institutional Development Group (RSIDG) Denise Florence Bernos-Bragas, MD, RSW, Assistant Secretary for RSIDG Janet P. Armas, and Assistant Secretary and Deputy Executive Director V for Services of the NACC Rowena M. Macalintal. (MGCBA)