Over 1,300 solo parents to get cash aid in Mandaue

CEBU, Philippines — At least 1,333 solo parents in Mandaue City are set to receive financial assistance from the city government following the approval of an ordinance granting cash aid to qualified beneficiaries.

Councilor Jimmy Lumapas, author of the ordinance, revealed that while 2,007 solo parents applied for the subsidy, only 1,333 met the qualifications. He explained that some applicants were disqualified because they were above minimum wage earners, a criterion established to maintain economic stability among recipients.

"Dili tanan qualified modawat sa cash incentives," Lumapas said, emphasizing that not all applicants met the eligibility requirements.

Despite this, those who did not qualify for the cash subsidy may still benefit from other forms of assistance, including a 20 percent discount from select schools and fast-food establishments.

The first tranche of the distribution is scheduled for March 26, 2025, with each qualified beneficiary receiving P1,000 per month.

"Mao ni gipaspasan nako og pa-pasar kay akong gusto nga ma distribute dayon," Lumapas stated, highlighting his urgency in pushing the ordinance to ensure timely distribution of the aid.

There will be two tranches of distribution, with each solo parent receiving P6,000 in the first tranche and another P6,000 in the second tranche.

Lumapas assured that the financial assistance program will continue in the coming years, regardless of any changes in administration.

The city councilor clarified that both male and female solo parents are eligible for the program as long as the child is under their custody. However, unlike beneficiaries of the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) and Senior Citizens' cash subsidies, solo parents must undergo an annual evaluation by the City Social Welfare Services Office (CSWSO) to determine their continued eligibility.

"Ang sa solo parent is naay duha ka process: mu apply ka as solo parent pero dili guaranteed nga solo parent ka naa kay cash subsidy, apply pa gyud ka for that," Lumapas explained.

The ordinance was designed to alleviate the financial burden faced by solo parents, particularly those raising school-aged children.

"Kahibaw man ta nga dili lalim ang pag-raise sa bata, labi na kung mag-eskwela na. Dako kaayo og pagkuwang sa ilang sweldo. Hopefully, with the assistance nga mahatag sa city government, makatabang-tabang ni sa ilang problema," Lumapas said. — (FREEMAN)