Solo parents across the country may soon have easier access to government assistance as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) ramps up efforts to reach those who remain unregistered under its support program.

This was discussed in the program "Get It Straight with Kuya Daniel Razon" on GMK, where Kuya Daniel Razon interviewed Ms. Francia Bongala, focal person of DSWD's "Strengthening Opportunities for Lone Parents" (SOLO) program, on the initiative's coverage and requirements.

According to Bongala, qualified beneficiaries include parents who are raising their children or dependents on their own, widows, widowers, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), legal guardians, and adoptive or foster parents.

To obtain a Solo Parent Identification Card (SPIC), applicants need to submit the following requirements:

• Birth certificate of the child
• Sworn affidavit as a solo parent
• Barangay affidavit confirming residency in the area
• Other documents depending on the applicant's category or situation

Bongala noted that solo parents must first qualify for the SPIC before they can access the benefits under the program, and qualification is assessed through the proper application process.

Because of this, the DSWD is encouraging solo parents to register, as many remain unregistered and have yet to be reached with the assistance available to them.

Solo parents may proceed to their local DSWD office through their respective local government unit (LGU) for assessment and to apply for their identification card to avail of the benefits under the program.

The SOLO program is part of DSWD's continuing effort to empower solo parents in fulfilling their parental roles.

Watch the full episode of "Get It Straight with Kuya Daniel Razon" for more details.

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