Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act (RA 11861)

Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act (RA 11861)

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) continues to strengthen the implementation of Republic Act 11861, also known as the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act. The law protects solo parents and provides essential resources to support their families.

DEFINITION OF A SOLO PARENT AND DEPENDENT

Under the law, a solo parent is an individual who cares for and supports a child without a partner, in a cohabitation arrangement, or through co-parenting. This includes legal guardians, adoptive or foster parents, and relatives up to the fourth degree, as well as families of OFWs. A child or dependent is defined as someone under 22 years old who is unmarried and unemployed. If the dependent is over 22, they still qualify if they are physically or mentally unfit to support themselves.

CORE BENEFITS AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Qualified solo parents are entitled to a variety of financial and social benefits:

• 10% Discount and VAT Exemption: This applies to basic needs for children up to 6 years old, provided the solo parent's annual income is less than 250,000 Pesos.

• Monthly Cash Subsidy: Solo parents who are minimum-wage earners are eligible for a 1,000 Peso monthly subsidy from their local government unit.

• Workforce Prioritization: Solo parents receive an additional 7 days of parental leave per year in both the public and private sectors.

• PhilHealth Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance is provided to solo parents.

• Housing Prioritization: The National Housing Authority (NHA) gives priority to solo parents in housing allocations.

DSWD PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

Beyond the direct mandates of RA 11861, the DSWD offers specialized programs:

• Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP): This program prioritizes solo parents for livelihood assistance to help them start or grow a business.

• Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS): Provides immediate support for transportation, medical expenses, burial assistance, and general financial needs.

• Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps): Low-income solo parents are prioritized for this program to ensure the health and education of their children.

HOW TO APPLY FOR A SOLO PARENT IDENTIFICATION CARD (SPIC)

To avail of these benefits, a solo parent must apply for a Solo Parent Identification Card at their nearest Local Social Welfare and Development Office (LSWDO). The basic requirements include:

• The birth certificate of the child or dependent.

• A sworn affidavit stating the applicant's status as a solo parent.

• A certificate of residency from the barangay.

• Other supporting documents based on the specific category of solo parenthood.

For further details, solo parents are encouraged to contact their respective LGUs or the nearest DSWD Field Office. The nearest DSWD Field Office. The nearest DSWD Field Office. The nearest DSWD Field Office. The nearest DSWD Field Office. The nearest DSWD Field Office.