THE Federation of Solo Parents in Mandaue City has requested the City Government to grant its members an annual financial assistance similar to that of persons with disability.

Federation president James Deresas said they push for the request because it is not easy for single parents to raise their children.

Deresas, a father of a teenager, said raising a child alone is difficult as a single parent who has to make a living.

He said Republic Act 8972, or the Solo Parent Act of 2000, has no provision for financial aid. One of the benefits provided by the law is an additional seven-day parental leave with pay that can be used by single parents who have rendered at least one year of service.

In a separate interview, Vice Mayor Glenn Bercede said solo parents receive food packs from the City every year.

Bercede said if the financial assistance would be granted, the solo parents would be receiving dual aid from the City.

The group, he said, must choose only one type of aid.

However, the vice mayor supports the federation’s request.

The City will discuss the federation’s request with Mayor Jonas Cortes.

On Monday, Dec. 28, 2020, 859 registered solo parents received their food packs from the city government. (KFD)