A LAWMAKER is pushing for a targeted financial assistance program for solo parents to help ease their economic burden and improve their families’ access to essential services.

House Bill No. 6995, filed by Representative Marilyn Primicias-Agabas, proposes the establishment of a Financial Assistance for Solo Parents Program (FASPP) to complement the benefits already provided under existing laws.

According to the bill’s explanatory note, many solo parents continue to face economic and social challenges, including rising prices of basic commodities, limited access to health care, and the increasing cost of education.

While Republic Act No. 11861, or the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, strengthened the recognition and benefits afforded to solo parents, the proposed measure noted that the delivery of direct and responsive financial assistance remains uneven, particularly among low-income families.

The proposed FASPP seeks to provide specific forms of financial assistance to address the needs of solo-parent households, particularly in food security, medical care, education, livelihood, and expenses arising from inflation.

The measure also invokes the 1987 Constitution, which recognizes the family as the foundation of the nation and mandates the State to strengthen family solidarity and protect vulnerable sectors.

Primicias-Agabas said the proposed legislation aims to ease the financial burden of solo parents who continue to raise their children amid economic hardships while expanding their access to essential services.

The bill’s explanatory note emphasized that providing additional support to solo parents would contribute to inclusive growth, strengthen family welfare, and promote the long-term development of Filipino children.