
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has reinforced its support for solo parent-headed families through the launch of the Program SOLo, or the Strengthening Opportunities for Lone Parents, an official said on Saturday, April 26.
DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the program was designed to complement Republic Act (RA) No. 11861 or the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, and aims to empower solo parents through economic assistance and holistic, technology-aided psychosocial support.
“The Program SOLo is crafted with the realities of solo parents in mind—acknowledging the daily challenges they face while raising children single-handedly,” Dumlao said in a statement.
According to Dumlao, the program primarily targets solo parent-headed families with two to three children below 22 years old, especially those living in close proximity to each other.
She said the program goes beyond providing assistance as it promotes transformation, allowing solo parent-headed families to live a life that is “matatag” (secure), “maginhawa” (comfortable), and “panatag” (strongly rooted).
“We want to ensure that solo parents are not just surviving, but truly thriving. The program aims to allow solo parents to perform their parental roles despite the problems and challenges they face,” the DSWD spokesperson said.
The agency said the program is designed for implementation at the local level, enabling local government units (LGUs) to provide tailored interventions that address the unique needs of solo parents in their communities.
Its core objectives include client-centered family case management and service delivery, and the establishment of a parenting and emotional support system for solo parents.
The DSWD noted that another major component focuses on the children of solo parents.
“The program prioritizes family well-being by ensuring children receive appropriate developmental interventions, recognizing that the stability of a solo parent directly impacts the growth and future of their children,” Dumlao stated.
She added that the program covers all categories of solo parents as defined under RA 11861, ensuring that eligible families are reached.
“Through this program, we are building a society where solo parents are supported, respected, and empowered to raise resilient families.”