Policy Analysis: Development of Programs and Services for Solo Parents in Antipolo City

The Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2022, or Republic Act No. 11861, affirms the government’s commitment to promoting social justice and inclusive development by providing a support system for solo parents. The law provides a national framework that guides local government in its implementation. Many solo parents faced multi-faceted challenges like parenting responsibilities, wherein most of the solo parents play dual roles as providers and caregivers. Financial hardship is another challenge that solo parents experience in their journey due to limited skills and opportunities with consideration their other role as sole care provider for their children. This policy paper looks at what the Antipolo City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has done for the city’s registered solo parents. It also assesses the needs of solo parents in terms of parenting, financial stability, and skill development. The study shows that many solo parents struggle to provide adequate supervision and emotional support to their children, live paycheck-to-paycheck, and never hear about the existing law for solo parents and other opportunities. To improve policy responsiveness, the study recommends: (1) strengthening community collaboration through barangays, schools, and women’s groups; (2) increasing access and flexibility through hybrid sessions and user-friendly materials; (3) incentivizing participation with practical benefits; and (4) institutionalizing monitoring and feedback mechanisms for continuous program improvement. By aligning programs and services with the expressed needs of solo parents, Antipolo City can lead the way in localizing the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act and ensuring that no parent is left behind.