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The recent episode of Cayetano in Action with Boy Abunda (CIA w/ BA), aired on Sunday, November 24, shed light on the rights of adoptive parents, particularly when it comes to benefits like maternity and paternity leave. The discussion emphasized the importance of understanding legal provisions to support both parents and their children.

During the Yes or No segment, Nico from the Mariteam raised a thought-provoking question: “Kung hindi pwede ang hindi married, bakit ‘yung kakilala ko na nag-adopt [ng bata], nakahingi o nakakuha pa siya ng paternity leave? Pwede po ba ‘yon?”

Senator Pia Cayetano, a guest on the show, confidently answered, “Pwede. That’s my law — Republic Act 11642,” referring to the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act, which she actively advocated for.

She further explained, “Because I have an adopted child, I’m very conscious of the discrimination that adopted children or adoptive parents may face. Nagkaroon din ako ng anak na may sakit, may kapansanan, namatay… I’m familiar with that.”

Cayetano’s response underscores her commitment to ensuring equal rights and inclusivity for adoptive families, highlighting the importance of legal protections for adoptive parents in the workplace.

Ate Pia shared: “Nagagamit ko ‘yung personal experience ko and discussions with people similarly situated to realize na, ‘Teka, ‘pag nag-adopt ka e para ka ring nagka-baby, ‘di ba? Hindi nga lang ‘parang,’ nagka-baby ka talaga. Hindi nga lang lumabas sa katawan mo… but you now have to bond with this baby that was not even born of your flesh and blood. Magsho-shopping ka rin naman ng gamit, [Magkaka]-sleepless nights ka rin naman para mag-alaga.”

“Therefore, do’n sa adoption law, nilagyan ko dun ng provision na kung ano ‘yung batas para do’n sa [natural] parents, meron din ang adoptive parents,” she added.

The adoption law ensures that adoptive parents are entitled to the same rights and benefits as biological parents, including maternity and paternity leave. 

This legal provision acknowledges the importance of supporting adoptive parents in their efforts to bond with and care for their children, regardless of biological connection.

Through this legislation, the government underscores its commitment to equality and fairness for all families, recognizing that the act of parenting — whether biological or adoptive — is equally significant.

‘CIA with BA’ continues the legacy of the late Senator Rene Cayetano and airs every Sunday at 11:00 p.m. on GMA7, with replays on GTV the following Saturday at 10:30 p.m.