BUTUAN CITY(February 2) — When Cyrian P. Zafra first held Airam in his arms, a 15-day-old infant entrusted to his care, he felt a rush of emotions — joy, anxiety, and an overwhelming sense of responsibility. For the proud LGBTQIA+ member, parenthood had once seemed out of reach. Yet that fragile, tiny life would reshape his world, proving that love, accountability, and commitment define family — not biology.
In 2021, Zafra became a licensed foster parent under the guidance of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Surigao del Sur. He had always cared for children in his community but never imagined raising one full-time. That changed on May 11, 2022, when Airam was placed in his care after being surrendered by her mother.
“When I got the call to foster her, I felt happiness and excitement… but also anxiety, wondering if I could truly fulfill the responsibilities of being a parent,” Zafra recalled.
Facing Prejudice with Purpose
Being an LGBTQIA+ parent in Caraga came with social scrutiny. Friends and relatives questioned his capacity to raise a child. Could a single, openly LGBTQIA+ individual provide the guidance and stability a child needs? Zafra admits those doubts weighed heavily, but he leaned on the support of social workers, fellow foster parents, and community guidance.
“Bilang isang miyembro ng LGBTQIA+, mahirap para sa atin na makahanap ng tunay na pamilya… Nang dumating sa buhay ko ang aking anak, nagbago ang pananaw ko. Nakita ko ang silbi at purpose ko sa buhay,” he shared tearfully.
(As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, it is difficult to find a true family… When my child came into my life, my perspective changed. I discovered my worth and purpose in life.)
For Zafra, parenting became a daily exercise in accountability — from ensuring proper nutrition, regular health check-ups, and vaccinations, to organizing routines, educational play, and emotional support. Every choice was guided by the child’s welfare, not societal expectations.
“Love alone is not enough. Being a parent means being present, making sacrifices, and committing to the child’s growth and safety every single day,” he said.
A Rigorous Path to Adoption
Zafra’s journey toward legal parenthood began in earnest on June 11, 2025, when he filed for adoption with the Regional Alternative Child Care Office (RACCO) Caraga. The process involved rigorous assessments of his home environment, financial stability, emotional readiness, and adherence to child welfare laws.
“I wanted to do it the right way. The process made me reflect on what kind of parent I am and what Airam truly needs,” Zafra said.
On November 3, 2025, his adoption petition was approved, followed by a certificate of finality on December 11, 2025, officially recognizing Airam as his daughter. On January 14, 2026, the RACCO Caraga marked the milestone with a ceremonial ‘bell of joy’, celebrating Zafra as the first-ever LGBTQIA+ adoptive parent in Caraga.
Daily Life and Community Accountability
Raising Airam has transformed Zafra’s daily routine. Mornings begin with feeding, hygiene, and playtime, while afternoons often involve social work appointments or community workshops. Evenings are reserved for reading, bonding, and monitoring Airam’s growth milestones.
Zafra emphasizes accountability in all aspects of caregiving. Every decision — from nutrition to education to emotional guidance — is documented and monitored in consultation with social workers. He also participates in peer support groups for foster and adoptive parents, sharing best practices and learning from others.
“Being accountable means I’m not just a parent for Airam, but also part of a community that ensures every child grows safely, healthily, and happily,” he said.
Setting an Example for LGBTQIA+ and the Broader Community
Zafra hopes his story will encourage other LGBTQIA+ individuals to embrace adoption and parenthood while highlighting that responsible parenting is about commitment, not gender identity.
“To my fellow LGBTQIA+ members, adoption allows you to experience love and responsibility… Let us help children without parents and give them a family filled with care and guidance,” he said.
His journey also underscores a broader message for society: family is defined by care, stability, and accountability, not just biology or social norms. By ensuring Airam’s health, education, and emotional well-being, Zafra is modeling a socially responsible approach to parenting — one that could inspire reforms and support for inclusive adoption policies across the region.
A Bond Beyond Blood
Today, Cyrian and Airam’s bond is inseparable. Though not connected by blood, it is built on trust, love, and the daily discipline of accountable parenting. Their story is a landmark for Caraga, a testament to courage, compassion, and the power of redefining family.
“Whatever happens, there will always be someone who gives unconditional love — and that’s what every child deserves,” Zafra said.
As the first LGBTQIA+ adoptive parent in the region, Zafra’s journey is both inspirational and socially instructive: proving that love, responsibility, and accountability can redefine family for generations to come.
