DSWD wants fathers to learn parenting skills

MANILA, Philippines - With the rising number of “house-bands,” the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has developed a program on teaching fathers how to be a better parent.

House-bands or house-bound husbands are becoming “a trend” among millions of Filipinos these days, with men staying at home to take care of the kids while their wives are out working and becoming the family breadwinner, the DSWD said.

Developed by the DSWD’s Social Technology Bureau, the Empowerment and Reaffirmation of Paternal Abilities (ERPAT) program aims to discuss with fathers their changing role as head of the family, raising and understanding the needs of children, and knowing the differences between men and women, among others.

The DSWD has distributed the ERPAT training program manuals to local government units for implementation in their respective areas.

The manual stresses the development and enrichment of knowledge, attitude and skills of fathers in performing their paternal roles and responsibilities.

The role of fathers in nurturing their children is as important as that of mothers, the DSWD said.

With the ERPAT program, the misconception among Filipino fathers that their wives should be the primary caregiver and nurturer of their children while they provide for the family’s needs will be addressed.