The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office (FO) Caraga commemorated Solo Parents Day under the theme “Solo Parent na Rehistrado, sa Gobyerno Tiyak na Protektado.” The celebration spotlighted the rights and welfare of solo parents, aiming to ensure they are well-protected and supported by the government.

A key feature of the day’s events was an orientation session on the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2022, also known as RA 11861. The session, led by Protective Services Division Chief Jessie Catherine B. Aranas, aimed to educate attendees on the latest legislation designed to enhance the welfare and rights of solo parents in the country.

During the session, Ms. Maricor Guitguitin, a staff member specializing in solo parent concerns from KALAHI-CIDDS, raised clarifications about the act, contributing to a deeper understanding of its provisions and benefits for solo parents.

Additionally, the event included a mental health check-in session for the staff facilitated by Ms. Anafe Lecciones, Training Specialist from the Capacity Building Section. This underscores the DSWD’s dedication to the well-being of its employees, especially those navigating the challenges of single parenthood. This initiative highlighted the importance of mental health support and the message that solo parent staff members are not alone in their journey.

The event concluded on an uplifting note with Sectoral Unit Head Ms. Melanie Juan emphasizing the Field Office’s commitment to supporting solo parents. She expressed optimism about the progress of future activities tailored for solo parents within the Agency, reassuring staff of the office’s unwavering support.

The celebration of Solo Parents Day by DSWD FO Caraga underscores the government’s recognition of the unique challenges faced by solo parents and its commitment to providing them with the necessary support and protection.