The local government of Pasig on Monday, April 21, urged all solo parents in the city to register and actively participate in government programs to fully access the benefits provided under Republic Act No. 11861 or the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act.

Mayor Vico Sotto commended all solo parents in honor of National Solo Parents Day during the kick-off of the week-long celebration themed "Solo Parent na Rehistrado, sa Gobyerno Tiyak na Suportado (Registered Solo Parents, Assured Government Support),” and acknowledged their vital role in raising and supporting their families.

He also proudly noted that Pasig is among the first local governments to implement a monthly cash subsidy for eligible solo parents, in line with RA 11861 and its enforcement through Ordinance No. 78, s. 2023.

The Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act offers comprehensive support and protection for solo parents in the Philippines and was enacted to broaden opportunities and benefits for them and their children.

In Pasig, the implementation of this law was strengthened through Ordinance No. 78, s. 2023.

The local government said that the celebration of Solo Parents Day in the city goes beyond symbolic participation.

“Ang selebrasyon ng National Solo Parents Day sa Lungsod ng Pasig ay hindi lamang basta-basta pagtalima sa pagdiriwang nito, kundi isang konkretong hakbang tungo sa pagkilala at pagsuporta sa mga sakripisyo at tagumpay bilang mga magulang na mag-isang tumatayo at nagtataguyod para sa pamilya (The celebration of National Solo Parents Day in Pasig City is not merely an observance of the occasion, but a concrete step towards recognizing and supporting the sacrifices and triumphs of those who single-handedly raise and provide for their families),” it said.

It also emphasized that with the help of the government, community, and individuals, solo parents in the city can receive the care and support they truly need.

Celebration activities

As part of the city’s celebration, the Solo Parent Unit under the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) will lead a series of activities, with solo parent representatives and their families from various barangays in the city participating:

Advocacy on Air—which aims to raise awareness about the rights and benefits of solo parents and provide accurate information to market vendors and consumers.

Blood-Letting Activity—to be held in partnership with the City Health Department, it aims to gather 150 solo parent donors and their family members to support community health.

Caravan of Services—it will feature information booths from partner offices, including the Gender and Development Office, Pasig Skills Development Office, Local Economic Development and Investment Office, Philippine Statistics Authority, and Public Employment Service Office, highlighting their programs and services.