The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Inter-Agency Coordinating and Monitoring Committee (IACMC) has ramped up efforts to support solo parents nationwide by organizing a one-stop-shop caravan offering various services, including registration.
“In line with Republic Act No. 11861 or the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, the DSWD, together with the IACMC, will spearhead a one-stop-shop caravan on April 26 at the Mandaluyong College of Science and Technology (MCST),” said Social Welfare Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao.
The initiative is part of the celebration of National Solo Parents Week, observed from April 21 to 26. This year’s theme, “Solo Parent na Rehistrado, sa Gobyerno Tiyak na Suportado,” underscores the government’s commitment to encouraging solo parents to register with their local government units (LGUs) to access the full range of benefits provided under the law.
Dumlao explained that the caravan aims to streamline the process for solo parents to apply for or renew their Solo Parent Identification Card (SPIC) in a single, accessible venue. “We also want to educate solo parents about the range of benefits and services available to them, which they can avail of with a valid SPIC,” she added.
The event is held in collaboration with several national government agencies, including the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), PhilHealth, the Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG Fund, and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), all of which will provide services on-site.
Solo parent representatives from Metro Manila LGUs, along with delegates from government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) and national government agencies (NGAs), are expected to participate in the event.
Among the services available during the caravan are medical check-ups, PhilHealth and SSS membership registration, NBI clearance applications, and information sessions on housing, education, and employment support.
The DSWD encourages solo parents to take advantage of this opportunity not only to secure their benefits but also to build a stronger support system within their communities.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Register with LGUs to access benefits, DSWD tells solo parents.”