Report Spouses of OFWs Now Eligible for Solo Parent Benefits in the Philippines

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In a significant development, spouses of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) may now be recognized as solo parents and access the benefits and privileges stipulated under Republic Act No. 11861, known as the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act. This update was announced by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) during a media forum on April 24.

 

DSWD Assistant Secretary for Statutory Programs Ada Colico explained that spouses of OFWs who work abroad for at least a continuous year, particularly those in low- or semi-skilled jobs, can qualify as solo parents under the new provisions of the law. This applies even if the OFW spouse provides financial support, as the primary caregiver in the Philippines is still considered a solo parent.

 

The RA 11861 broadens the definition of a solo parent, traditionally someone providing primary care and support due to circumstances like abandonment, death, separation, annulment, a spouse’s mental or physical incapacity, or incarceration for at least three months.

 

In addition to OFW spouses, the law now includes other categories such as legal guardians, adoptive or foster parents, and relatives within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity assuming full responsibility for a child. Pregnant women without partner support are also eligible.

 

 

 

Qualified solo parents can avail themselves of various benefits, including a monthly cash subsidy of P1,000 from their local government units (LGUs) for those earning minimum wage or less. They also receive automatic PhilHealth coverage, priority access to housing and government jobs, a 10 percent discount and VAT exemption on essential goods for children under six for parents earning less than P250,000 annually, and access to scholarships from DepEd, CHED, and TESDA.

 

To access these benefits, solo parents must be officially recognized by their LGUs, which are responsible for issuing solo parent identification cards. "The DSWD does not issue the solo parent ID. It is issued by the city or municipal social welfare and development office," Colico highlighted. She also noted that this ID must be renewed annually.

 

This expansion of the solo parent law reflects a broader understanding of the challenges faced by those providing sole child care, facilitating better support and opportunities for families across the Philippines.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-04-24