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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PM Vargas files twin bills to help solo parents, kids

PM Vargas files twin bills to help solo parents, kids

Published Apr 24, 2026 10:17 am

At A Glance

  • House Deputy Majority Leader Quezon City 5th district Rep. PM Vargas is pushing two measures that seek to provide a comprehensive support system for solo parents and their children.
(Unsplash)
(Unsplash)


House Deputy Majority Leader Quezon City 5th district Rep. PM Vargas is pushing two measures that seek to provide a comprehensive support system for solo parents and their children.
Vargas, a second-term solon, is highlighting the bills a few days removed from the country’s observance of National Solo Parents Day last April 18.
The Quezon City solon is championing House Bill (HB) No. 3413, also known as the Young Women’s Refuge and Assistance Center Act; and HB No. 3404, also known as the Free Childcare Services Act as a way to address the gaps in the country’s social safety nets for non-traditional and struggling families.
"There is a saying that 'It takes a village to raise a child.' This is the government's way of being that village that will help solo parents in ensuring the proper growth and development of their children," Vargas said on Thursday, April 23.
The first measure, HB No. 3413, mandates the establishment of a Refuge and Assistance Center in every province, city, and municipality for pregnant women aged 21 and below. The centers are specifically designed to assist young mothers who have been abandoned by their partners, providing them with temporary shelter, free medical assistance, and prenatal care.
Aside from healthcare, the bill provides programs for livelihood skills to help these mothers and their infants transition toward independence.
Meanwhile, HB No. 3404 seeks to establish free childcare centers for children under three years old. This measure is a direct response to the struggle of indigent and solo parents who are often forced to choose between employment and child-rearing.
By providing a professional facility where infants can receive proper nutrition and cognitive development, the bill allows solo parents—especially those without nearby family support—to pursue careers or seek work with peace of mind.
Vargas noted that aside from immediate services, these facilities will serve as hubs for acquiring good child-rearing techniques and developing responsible parenting habits.
Both bills align with the State’s constitutional duty to defend the right of children to proper care and protection from neglect or conditions prejudicial to their development, says Vargas.
The ranking congressman likewise shared that upholding the rights and welfare of solo parents and their children is something close to his heart. During his term as a city councilor, his efforts led to the creation of the Quezon City Solo Parents Affairs Office. He hopes such initiatives will be replicated nationwide.
He concluded by hailing solo parents who choose to raise their children despite immense hardship.
“I honor all parents who have chosen to take care of their children. You serve as inspirations for us in the government to create better laws that will uphold your welfare and the welfare of the next generation of Filipinos,” Vargas said.

Related Tags

PM Vargas SOLO PARENT House of Representatives
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