NACC cries foul over film’s foster care portrayal

Manila: The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) expressed concern on Friday over a film's "misleading and unlawful depiction of adoption and foster care". In a statement, NACC said the film Dear Satan promotes misconceptions, such as not taking the legal steps before taking a child home and that a child can be casually chosen. It noted that a prospective foster parent should undergo a thorough evaluation before a child can be entrusted. "The film also misrepresents the essential work of our social workers and child welfare professionals," the statement added. It is about a child who wrote a letter to Santa but misspelled his name, so it was "Satan" who got the letter. The film was scheduled to be released on Sept. 18 but the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board gave it an X rating as it depicts Satan as "good", barring it from cinemas. The NACC said by ignoring the role of the professionals, the film discredits their efforts to protect the rights and welfare of children in need. "W e call on the film industry and the media to responsibly portray adoption and foster care, ensuring that they reflect the true legal process involved and prioritize the well-being of the child," NACC said. In a news release, NACC Executive Director Undersecretary Janella Estrada said that while the film implores artistic freedom, it runs counter to the agency's mandate. Source: Philippines News Agency