Bagong Henerasyon Party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera (Facebook)

House Deputy Minority Leader and Bagong Henerasyon Party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera's consistency in fighting for the rights of indigent solo parents in the ongoing budget plenary debates have paid off. 

This, after the veteran congresswoman secured a commitment from Chief Public Attorney Persida Acosta to offer free notarial services to indigent solo parents. 

“This is a huge win for every solo parent in the Philippines. Chief Acosta’s commitment will give thousands of solo parents the legal support they desperately need but couldn’t afford. This service will not only lighten their load but give them the empowerment they deserve,” Herrera declared. 

Known as the “Solon ng Soloista” for her tireless advocacy for solo parents, Herrera pushed for free notarial services on the sidelines of the House plenary deliberations on the proposed P6.352-trillion national budget for 2025. 

Herrera specifically asked Acosta if solo parents earning below minimum wage or with an annual income under P250,000 could avail of free notarial services from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO).. 

Acosta responded affirmatively, saying that solo parents with a net monthly income of P24,000 in Metro Manila, P22,000 in other cities, and P20,000 in municipalities are eligible for the free notarial services offered by PAO. 

Herrera further inquired about the availability of these services nationwide, to which Acosta confirmed, saying, “Oo, libre lang (Yes, it's free).” 

Acosta continued, “Malaman nila ngayon na sa aming annual report ay ilalagay na natin na category na ‘solo parent served by PAO’ para ma-recognize naman ang effort ni Cong. Bernadette, isa po sa kaibigan natin matagal na. Sana po lagi nating suportahan ang mga programa niya sapagkat napakasipag, napakatiyaga, isang honest na legislator.” 

(We'll let them know from now on that we will include in our annual report the category 'solo parent served by PAO’ in order to recognize the efforts of Cong. Bernadette, who has been my friend for so long. Hopefully we continue to support her programs because she's a hardworking, industrious, and honest legislator.) 

Herrera expressed her gratitude for Acosta’s unwavering support, and reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for the rights of solo parents across the country. 

She said more solo parents will have access to much-needed legal services, easing their burdens and empowering them to better support their families. 

“This commitment is more than just about legal services—it’s about dignity and hope. By easing their burdens, we’re empowering solo parents to rise above their challenges and provide a better future for their families,” Herrera said.