"The task seemed… utterly impossible… a road to heartbreak"
Reporter: Liam Bartlett
Producer: Jo Townsend
Joel de Carteret’s remarkable journey proves the power of love can overcome truly impossible odds. There’s an extraordinary ending to this story, but it begins with heartbreak. As a five year old Joel got hopelessly lost from his mother when he wandered away from the family home and into a bustling city market in the Philippines. He searched and searched but couldn’t find her, and eventually was taken to an orphanage. Imagine his despair as for the next 18 months this little boy contemplated a future with little hope. But Joel is plucky and also lucky. He’s adopted by a caring and loving Australian family. He goes on to lead a happy and successful life here, except something is always missing. Six months ago, 30 years after getting lost, Joel de Carteret couldn’t ignore the pain any longer. He had to find his birth mother. But in a country of one hundred million, where would he even start to look?
Interviewing Badan, Joel's first lead in the hunt for his parents. Badan helped Joel behind the scenes and welcomed him to his Munoz family.
Joel finally meet's Danny, a long lost friend and Papa figure for baby Joel.
Nanay Julie before meeting Joel's biological father.
Jessica Soho hugging finally meeting Nanay Hermina for the first time.
On the couch with Jessica Soho.
Liam Bartlett interviewing Philippines world renowned journalist, Jessica Soho.
Arriving at Nanay Hermina's castle.
60 Minutes Australia crew shooting at Munoz Market, Philippines.
