Put positive spin on adoption, DSWD asks telenovela writers

Abused and maltreated. This is how adopted children are oftentimes portrayed in television drama series. The government wants to change that. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in particular, has asked script writers and producers of local soap operas to put a positive spin on adoption in their programs. DSWD Secretary Corazon Soliman made the appeal at a recent media forum to producers of television networks ABS-CBN, GMA Network and TV 5. Also present were were adoptive families and representatives of child caring institutions. “Mahalagang magkaroon ng pagpapaliwanag kung ano ang ibig sabihin ng adoption. Kailangan malinaw sa pag-iisip ng mga gumawa ng mga teledrama scripts na hindi kabawasan sa pagkatao ng bata na siya ay ampon. Ang pag-aampon ay mahalaga dahil malaki ang inilalaang pagmamahal ng magulang sa kanyang batang inampon,” a DSWD news release quoted Soliman as telling the producers. She noted adoption is even portrayed negatively in teledramas showing adopted children being abused or maltreated in their adopted homes. In some cases, the shows portray adopted children as being forced to do heavy chores in the orphanages. Soliman also said that while many telenovelas carry adoption themes, "inaccurate information" is being given to the viewers about adoption procedures. For her part, Movie Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) Chairperson Grace Llamanzares said the media and entertainment industry can help bring about awareness and help educate the public about adoption. "It is high time that the responsibility and benefits of adoption are highlighted, instead of negative stereotypes that are often associated with it,” Llamanzares said. — KBK, GMA News