Measure that gives priority to single moms get push from council

CEBU, Philippines – The Committee on Laws of the Talisay City Council has recommended for the approval of the legislation that mandates all business establishments in the city to prioritize residents who are single mothers for livelihood assistance and in the provision of employment opportunities.

In a two-page committee report rendered by City Councilor Socrates Fernandez, the ordinance adheres to the declared policy of the state as provided in Section 2 of Republic Act No. 8972, otherwise known as the Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2000.

“The proposed ordinance is for second and final reading,” the recommendation read.

If the measure will be approved, single mothers and women are the first on the list of residents to be prioritized for livelihood assistance and employment.

City Councilor Aldin Diaz, chairman of the city’s Committee on Labor, Trade and Industry and the proponent of the measure, said he observed that the adverse effects of the economic crisis continue to burden the people, especially the unemployed residents of the city. However, Diaz noted that those who suffer the most are the solo parents and their children.

In his proposed ordinance, it explains that the single parents are those individuals who, due to unfavorable circumstances, are left alone to rear, provide and support the needs of their children, which, among others, include provision for food, education clothing, shelter and other basic necessities for their daily survival.

Section 4 of the proposed ordinance says single parents shall have the priority in the granting of livelihood assistance under any of the city’s applicable programs or projects, subject to the qualification requirements under existing ordinance, rules and regulation.

In order to avail of the privileges, a proof of membership and entitlement issued by the City Social Welfare and Development Office shall be presented by the single parent to avail of the livelihood assistance granted under this ordinance. – ATO