The Iloilo City Government has started distributing cash subsidies to qualified solo parents under The Comprehensive Solo Parent Ordinance of Iloilo City.
Councilor Frances Grace Parcon, principal author of the Ordinance, said that 196 solo parents earning below minimum wage received their assistance on Valentine’s Day, with validation still ongoing for other applicants.
The ordinance which was enacted in December last year provides a monthly subsidy of PHP1,000 for eligible solo parents.
“They have to be residents of Iloilo City for at least two years. They have to pass through the assessment by the district City Social Welfare and Development Office,” Parcon explained.
In addition to the cash subsidy, the ordinance also provides penalties for establishments that do not comply and those that continue to receive subsidies even if they are no longer solo parents.
Misrepresenting status or falsifying documents may result in fines of P1,500 or community service on the first offence, P2,500 or community service on the second offense and P5,000 or one-month imprisonment or both depending on the court, for third offense.
Businesses failing to comply will face revocation of their permits.
Other benefits provided under the ordinance are seven days parental leave as long as they rendered at least six months of service, a 10 percent discount for purchase of their children’s needs, and priority in the provision of livelihood support.Perla Lena/PNA
