Something to Look Forward to: More Benefits for the Solo Parent Under RA 8972

16 years ago, the government enacted RA 8972 or what we all know as the Solo Parents’ Welfare Act of 2000.  Through this law, qualified solo parents are granted certain discounts and privileges, mandated by the government, in order to help them support their children.

This year, the Federation of Solo Parents in Luzvimin, Gabriela Women’s Party, and Ilaw Para sa Kababaihan at Bata groups moved to amend RA 8972 in order to improve the social services for solo parents, particularly in the barangay levels.  The following are the proposed amendments that the groups are seeking to propose:

1. 20% discount on baby’s milk and food supplements made within 3 years from the child’s birth;
2. 20% discount on medicines and vaccines for the child made within 18 years of the child’s birth;
3. 20% on hospital bills of the solo parent when his or her child is admitted to a public or private hospital;
4. 20% discount on public and private recreational facilities where solo parents spend time with their children.
5. 12% discount on basic necessities;
6. 15% discount on school supplies until the child reaches the age of 21;
7. 10% discount on school tuition fees per child studying in college in either a public or private school;
8. 10% discount on consultation and laboratory diagnostic fees, as well as in the purchase of medicines for solo parents and their dependents;
9. A 7-day parental leave with pay if solo parent has rendered at least 6 months of service in a company.

In yesterday’s celebration of International Women’s Day, the DSWD led its employees in supporting and participating in the petition seeking to fast-track the implementation of the said amendments.  The ceremonial signature campaign was held at the Bonifacio Shrine in Manila.  They need one million signatures to push their call for improved benefits and privileges for the solo parent.

Will you support this cause?

Source: http://bit.ly/2mIduUr