A MOVE to expand the coverage of benefits for solo parents in Cebu City is pending before the City Council.
Under the proposed ordinance of Councilor Eduardo Rama Jr., registered solo parents in the city can avail themselves of a 10 percent discount on meals from different restaurants, fast food chains, cafes, canteens and other similar dining places every first and last Sunday of the month.
The discount will be deducted from the total bill of each meal.
“It is still a known fact that solo parents struggle much in handling parental duties on their own, including generating income to support their children while finding time to spend with them as well,” read a portion of the proposed measure.
The City has around 5,000 solo parents.
In return, the City will give tax exemptions to establishments that will participate in the program.
Section 7 of the proposed ordinance states that business establishments granting discounts may claim tax deduction as part of their business expense within the taxable year, provided that they maintain detailed and separate records of the purchases.
The claim for tax deductions should be pursuant to the City’s Revenue Code.
The City has existing ordinances that promote the welfare of solo parents.
City Ordinance (CO) 2230 provides for a welfare package for solo parents, while CO 2395 provides for the mechanics and criteria as to when solo parents may be entitled to cash assistance.
The Department of Social Welfare and Services has been registering solo parents and issuing identification cards.
Rama’s proposed legislative measure has been referred to the committee on laws for comment and recommendation. RVC