SOLO PARENT ORIENTATION FOR NEW AND RENEWAL REGISTRANTS. With the strong support of Mayor Joseph Rañola (inset, upper left corner), the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Jagna continues to provide crucial guidance through weekly orientations for solo parents. These sessions, designed for both new applicants and those renewing their Solo Parent ID, aim to simplify the application process and educate participants on their rights and benefits. Understanding the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, the Republic Act No. 11861, known as the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, marks a pivotal advancement in support for solo parents in the Philippines. This legislation, which amends the Solo Parents’ Welfare Act of 2000, broadens the scope of benefits and privileges available to solo parents. Key features include: Mandated support from both government agencies and private entities; Enhanced benefits to assist solo parents in fulfilling their parental responsibilities and a more inclusive definition of who qualifies as a solo parent. Simplifying the Application Process Recognizing the unique challenges faced by solo parents, Mayor Rañola has championed the MSWDO’s efforts to streamline the application process for the Solo Parent ID. The weekly orientations serve multiple purposes: 1. Guiding applicants through each step of the process; 2. Clarifying eligibility criteria for different categories of solo parents; 3. Detailing the necessary requirements for application or renewal; 4. Providing a supportive environment for solo parents to ask questions and seek advice; Recent Orientation Highlights on October 8, 2024, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) conducted another successful orientation session: Venue: Old building of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office; Facilitators: Alma D. Acera, MSWDO, Gerry Cacayan, Focal Person; Attendees: 33 solo parents (new applicants and renewals). This orientation is a crucial step in the Solo Parent ID application process, ensuring that all applicants are well-informed about their rights, responsibilities, and the benefits available to them under the new law. Commitment to Solo Parents: Mayor Joseph Rañola and the MSWDO remain dedicated to supporting solo parents in our community, recognizing their invaluable role in nurturing the next generation. We encourage all eligible solo parents to participate in these informative sessions and take advantage of the support systems put in place by our local government. For more information on upcoming orientations or to begin your application process, please contact the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office. Mayor Rañola’s administration is committed to making Jagna a model for solo parent support and welfare. Contributed photo