Within Philippine society, parents who raise their children by themselves are acknowledged as having to deal with various obstacles, prompting the implementation of the Solo Parents Welfare Act, also referred to as Republic Act No. 8972, by the government. This legislation acknowledges the extraordinary efforts of Filipino single parents by providing a comprehensive package of services and privileges through the DSWD to bolster their ability to raise their children in a nurturing environment.
Expanding upon this, Republic Act No. 11861, known as the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, further strengthens the support system, ensuring they receive adequate social protection and assistance.
In the Philippines, the Solo Parents Welfare Act, along with its expanded version, directly addresses the needs of the estimated 15 million solo parents working diligently to raise their children. The acts provide concrete benefits, including livelihood assistance, educational scholarships, housing priority, access to medical services, and a monthly financial subsidy for those who qualify. These benefits are crucial for solo parents striving to ensure a stable and supportive environment for their children while managing the unique challenges of single-handedly nurturing a family.
Republic Act 8792
The original act, Republic Act No. 8972, was signed into law on November 7, 2000, with its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) established in April 2002. It serves as the foundation for the rights and privileges of these individuals in the Philippines. The law was amended in 2010 through Republic Act No. 9710, expanding the coverage and benefits for solo parents.
Republic Act 11861
Republic Act No. 11861 enhances this foundation by fortifying the benefits and privileges that they are entitled to and ensures they have access to adequate social protection programs from the government. This act aims to alleviate the burdens that solo parents face in providing for their families, recognizing the importance of their role as primary caregivers.
Significance in the Philippine Context
In the Philippines, these laws are not just legal texts but lifelines for the estimated 15 million parents raising their children single-handedly, striving to provide for their families. They serve as a testament to the country’s commitment to nurturing family life by offering a helping hand to those who shoulder parenting responsibilities alone.
Program Benefits
These individuals benefit from an array of services under these laws, including:
- Livelihood development services, to provide them with self-employment opportunities.
- Educational assistance, such as scholarships for them and their children.
- Housing support, which prioritize this group in government housing programs.
- Medical assistance to ensure that they and their children have access to health care services.
- A monthly cash subsidy of PHP 1,000 for those earning a minimum wage or less and not receiving any other cash subsidy programs.
Eligibility / Qualifications
To be recognized as a beneficiary, one must fall into several categories, such as:
- A woman who gives birth as a result of rape or crimes against chastity, even without a final conviction of the offender.
- Any individual who solely provides parental care and support to a child or children.
- Anyone who assumes the head of the family as a result of the death, abandonment, disappearance, or prolonged absence of the parents.
Requirements
The requirements for availing of the benefits include:
- A Solo Parent Identification Card (Solo Parent ID) obtained from the DSWD.
- Income threshold criteria for certain benefits.
- Supporting documents such as a birth certificate of the child/children, a barangay certificate, and income tax return or certificate of non-filing of income.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for the DSWD Program
- Secure the Necessary Documents: Gather all required documentation, including your children’s birth certificates and any applicable legal papers.
- Barangay Certification: Obtain a certification from your local barangay that attests to your residency and status as a parent raising their children by themselves.
- Application: Visit your local DSWD office to submit your application and documents. They will assess your eligibility for the program.
- Solo Parent ID: Once approved, you will receive a Solo Parent ID, which you must present to avail of the perks from the government.
- Enjoy Benefits: With your ID, you can now access the perks and services provided under the law.
Recent Updates
IRR: A Solution to Admin Issues and Complaints – BH Party-list
BH Party-list Representative Bernadette Herrera emphasized that the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and other relevant agencies have the potential to improve the implementation of the laws granting discounts and perks to senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and solo parents through a joint-inter-agency Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). By collaborating administratively, these agencies can streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and provide effective solutions to the challenges faced by the public. Rep. Herrera’s proposal aims to foster cooperation and synergy among government entities, ultimately benefiting the Filipino people.
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna has announced that the payout of financial assistance for this group in the city will continue until the second week of January 2024. Around 17,000 individuals will receive PHP3,000, which represents the PHP500 monthly cash aid for the period of July to December of last year. This initiative aims to provide support and alleviate the financial burden faced by these individuals in Manila.
Video: Mga benepisyo ng solo parent, alamin! | Stand for Truth
Did you know that under RA 11861, single parents are entitled to a 10% discount and VAT exemption on infant milk, food, supplements, and diapers? This law aims to provide support and assistance for those who are raising their children single-handedly. In addition to these services, there are many more advantages they can avail of. Watch the video to learn more about the various perks and privileges that await these individuals.
Conclusion
The Solo Parents Welfare Act and the subsequent Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act represent the Philippine government’s recognition of the unique challenges faced by this population. These laws provide a much-needed support structure that acknowledges their dual role as breadwinner and caregiver.
These vulnerable (and often first-time) parents are not alone in their journey. With the backing of these acts, they are empowered to create a stable, loving environment for their children, contributing to a stronger, more resilient Filipino community.