Philippines Adoption

Philippines Fast Facts:

  • 2009 adoptions: 281 children
  • Estimated Total Cost: $17,000 to $25,000
  • Profile: Children younger than 1 are rarely available for adoption. 43% of children are ages 1 to 4, and 55% are 5 or older (2008).
  • Parent Ages: There is no age limit for married prospective adoptive parents Singles must be at least 24 years old.
  • Family Status: Married couples and singles may adopt.
  • Travel: At least one parent must travel; time in-country varies from 5 to 10 days.
  • Timeline: Approximately two years for referral after completion of dossier (less for older children). Parents are able to travel 4 to 6 months after referral.

Philippines Adoption Directory

Find an adoption agency placing children from the Philippines in your state:

Because the Philippines was governed by the United States during the first half of the twentieth century, English is spoken throughout the country, although Tagalog is the national language. The children available for adoption are typically Filipino in heritage, and range in appearance from Asian to a mixture of Asian, Malaysian, and Hispanic.

Children are usually at least 18 months old at time of placement. A large number of preschool- and school-age children, the majority of whom are boys, are especially in need of families. School-age children in the Philippines are routinely taught English; therefore, older children may have some English language skills. Many children experience developmental delays, malnutrition, or other special needs.

The Philippines is a member of the Hague Adoption Convention.

Helpful articles from Adoptive Families magazine

  • Support by the Book
    A monthly Asian book club turns into a support group for adoptive parents.
  • A World of Gratitude
    When this big, multicultural family gets together for Thanksgiving, the table is laden with more than just turkey.

Helpful Websites for Philippines Adopters