A BILL that was recently enacted into law will provide added benefits to solo parents and their children.
The proposed measure lapsed into law last June 4, 2022 after the Office of the President failed to act on it.
Under Republic Act No. 11861, it stated that solo parent employees will be given flexible work schedules.
A solo parent who is a minimum wage earner or below will be given an additional P1,000 financial assistance every month and scholarships for the children.
The solo parent will also be given seven days of parental leave benefits every year in order for the solo parent to strike a balance between work and responsibilities to children, particularly during occasions that need the parent’s presence.
Solo parents will also automatically receive health insurance under the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) of PhilHealth.
There is also a 10-percent discount and exemption from Value Added Tax (VAT) to be given to solo parents who earn less than P250,000 every year on products for babies such as milk, food and micronutrient supplements, diapers, medicines, vaccines, and other medical supplements for children up to six years of age.
Solo mothers will also be given priority once they return to work, even their children for apprenticeships, livelihood training, and other poverty alleviation programs.
Single-parent households will also be given priority for low-cost housing by the government and flexible payment terms.
On the other hand, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, together with other government agencies, are tasked to establish a comprehensive social protection services package for solo parents and their children.