Lanao del Sur champions solo parents, passes ordinance ensuring comprehensive support

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur has passed Ordinance No. 00-005 Series of 2024, a measure designed to address the challenges faced by solo parents and improve their access to essential services.

Sponsored by Board Member Ansari “Ringo” Gandamra, the ordinance builds on the provisions of the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act of the national government, offering additional services and protections for solo parents in the province.

Provincial Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Adiong expressed his support for the ordinance, highlighting its importance for the welfare of solo parents and their children. He said the ordinance supports solo parents by expanding their access to essential services and protections.

“We are grateful to Board Member Gandamra and everyone who contributed to its passage,” he added.

In addition to the benefits granted under the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, which include parental leave with pay, a 10 percent discount and VAT exemption on select goods, and automatic coverage under the National Health Insurance Program, the new ordinance provides several key provisions to assist solo parents in the province.

Solo parents will be given priority in employment opportunities, apprenticeships, scholarships, and livelihood training to improve their long-term economic prospects and their families.

The ordinance also includes provisions to ease the daily challenges of solo parents. Commercial establishments in Lanao del Sur are required to set up express lanes for solo parents, especially when accompanied by children under 12 years old. Solo parents will also receive priority boarding in public transport and passenger terminals to ease access to services.

In times of emergency, such as disasters, calamities, or public health crises, solo parents and their children will be prioritized for social safety assistance, including food, medicines, and financial aid for home repairs.

Indigent solo parents will also be entitled to death and burial assistance through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office. Adolescent solo parents and victims of child marriages will receive specialized assistance, including counseling and health services, to support their well-being.

The ordinance further calls for establishing a Solo Parent Office in Marawi City and a Solo Parent Division within each municipal Social Welfare and Development Office. These offices will handle the registration of solo parents, issue Solo Parent ID cards, and ensure that all benefits outlined in the ordinance are provided to eligible individuals.

To oversee the implementation of the ordinance, a Provincial Coordinating and Monitoring Committee will be created. The committee will monitor compliance, ensure the effective delivery of services, and advocate for the needs of solo parents throughout the province.

Board Member Gandamra emphasized the importance of the ordinance in addressing the needs of solo parents in the province and ensuring that they are not left behind. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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