LGU-Tayum is the first to organize a Solo Parent’s Association in Abra through its Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO).
Tayum Solo Parents Association headed by Agnes Fernandez was formally organized in November 2018. It has 80 active members who were provided educational and medical assistance in accordance with Republic Act (RA) 8972 or the Solo Parent’s Welfare Act.
RA 8972 provides benefits and privileges to those who are bearing the responsibility of parenthood alone to ease the difficult task of raising their children alone. Under the law, a solo parent employee who has rendered service of at least one year should be granted parental leave of not more than seven working days to give them quality time with their kids.
MSWDO Jennifer Tingday said the solo parents are entitled to financial, medical, and educational services under the social welfare program of the LGU. Aside from these benefits, the solo parents are continuously empowered through the association where they participate in capability building, counselling, and group activities.
DSWD-CAR Solo Parent Focal Person Eleonor Bugalin-Ayan said the Solo Parent Act still needs to be amended to ensure that the benefits are provided in all municipalities.