No answers from Cebu City

July 1, 2022

I heard back from the National Authority for Childcare and Inter-Country Adoption Board (NACC) in the Philippines. They are working closely with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on my case. Their social workers have contacted the local social welfare office in Cebu City and began their search at the last known address listed in my adoption documents.

Barangay officials confirmed that a woman named Victoriana Nadal does not appear on the voter registry for that barangay. Additionally, several residents interviewed by social workers were not familiar with her. As a result, their initial efforts to locate her have been unsuccessful. However, the NACC has assured me that the search will continue.

The lack of complete and accurate information about my birth mother does make this process more challenging. Even so, I am deeply grateful for this update. I have been waiting for a clearer explanation of their efforts—something that could help guide my next steps on this journey.

Being here in the United States, I often feel helpless. I’ve considered making a trip to the Philippines, but I know I need more concrete information, plans, and strategies before taking that step.

One thing I do know is this: I can’t lose hope. I will never stop searching for her.