CHR urges ‘swift’ implementation of law providing more benefits to single parents

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Thursday urged the swift implementation of the law expanding benefits for single parents to give them support amid "challenging times."
 
The CHR made the remark after the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 11861 or the Expanded Solo Parents’ Welfare Act, were signed on September 29.

“The commission is hopeful of the swift implementation of the law to address the pressing needs of solo parents during this period of economic hardship that heavily impacts them,” the CHR said in a statement. 

“We also expect readiness, efficiency, and transparency from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), its partner agencies, local governments, and the business sector in providing enhanced social services, benefits, and discounts entitled to all Filipino solo parents to truly improve their plight,” it added. 
 
The law grants a P1,000 monthly cash subsidy to a solo parent who is earning a minimum wage or below.

It also provides a 10% discount on certain medicines for low-income solo parents with children aged six years old and below, prioritization in low-cost housing, PhilHealth coverage, workforce, apprenticeships, livelihood training, reintegration programs for Overseas Filipino Workers, employment information/matching services, educational scholarships, and other anti-poverty initiatives of the government.
 
Furthermore, the new law allows solo parents to receive these benefits until their children turn 22 years old.

“The CHR anticipates that the holistic services and benefits for solo parents will respond to their unique needs and help mitigate the compounding challenges that beset them, especially during the current challenging times,” the commission said.
 
"[I]nvesting in them will also help ensure the well-being and proper development of their children and give them [an] equal opportunity to succeed in life,” it added. — VBL, GMA News