Are you aware that there is a Solo Parents' Act?

(As released) Former Senator Serge Osmeña released a political ad which threw a spotlight on the Solo Parents' Act. The ad was part of a series that brings to fore laws and reforms pushed by the three-time senator.

It has Osmeña himself popping out of nowhere saying "I-Serge Mo!" his funny and personalized version of the usual: "I-Search Mo!"

What surprised the Osmeña camp was the reaction that the ad got from single parents from all over the Philippines who were not even aware that a Solo Parents' Welfare Act existed, let alone that the former senator was its primary author.

Osmeña's Facebook page was bombarded with private messages and post comments asking more about this law. Some were surprised at the numbers, "Talaga 15 Million single parents?" while others demanded to know more about this law, "Really? Single parent ako, bakit hindi ako nasali d'yan?"

Republic Act 8972 is celebrating its 18th anniversary and though it has helped many Filipinos who are raising their children alone, there are still millions who are not even aware that such a bill exists. As again, thanks to a simple mention in Osmeña's TVC, more and more people are gaining awareness about this law.

Enhancements to the Single Parent Law

Now, Osmeña, who is running for a Senate seat in the 2019 mid-term elections is pushing for enhanced benefits under the Solo Parent Welfare Act considering more than half of Filipinos are actually Solo Parents.

He said these proposed additional benefits will include a 10% discount for hospitalization and school tuition as well, even for those who are gainfully employed.

About the Solo Parents' Welfare Act of 2000

The Solo Parents' Welfare Act of 2000 grants benefits to parents who, for reasons specified in the bill, are raising their child on their own, whether it is because of choice or circumstance. The Solo Parents Welfare Act provides benefits that include flexible work schedule, no work discrimination, additional parental leave to allow them to attend to their children's needs where they would otherwise be sharing the responsibilities with a partner.

For single parents whose income in the place of domicile falls below the poverty threshold as set by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) there are additional benefits including livelihood and counseling programs. The Department of Social Welfare and Development can provide additional information on the requirements for securing a Solo Parent ID> Serge Osmeña was a prime proponent of RA 8972 which arose out of his concern for fathers and mothers who, for one reason or another, are raising their children alone. As a parent himself, Osmeña knows just how difficult it is to be responsible for the well-being of another person. And doing it alone is even more difficult, especially when one has limited resources. Not only is it a burden financially, but it takes a huge toll on one's time. — Sergio Osmeña campaign