Butuan City — In celebration of the Solo Parent Week 2025 (April 21–26), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga alongside national government agencies joined the KAPIHAN with PIA Caraga at SM City Butuan to raise awareness on the rights and benefits of solo parents under Republic Act No. 11861 or the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, April 21, 2025.

Protective Services Division (PSD) Chief Jessie Catherine Aranas engaged with media and on-site participants, answering questions and discussing key provisions of the law.

Among the inquires tackled were the eligibility requirements to qualify as a solo parent—including those who are single-handedly raising a child due to separation, abandonment, death of a spouse, or other qualifying circumstances.

A major highlight was the seven-day parental leave benefit granted to all solo parent employees, in addition to existing leave entitlements under RA 11861.

Moreover, to support Solo Parents going through mental health struggles, Chief Aranas also shared DSWD Field Office Caraga’s WiSupport Services—they may message DSWD Caraga’s facebook page to to be assisted.

Furthermore, as part of the week-long celebration, DSWD Field Office Caraga, as the chair of the Regional Inter-Agency Coordinating and Monitor Committee (RIAC-MC) will spearhead the Solo Parents One Stop Service Caravan on April 22–23, 2025, at the SM City Butuan Events Center, 3rd Floor, offering easy access to government services and assistance.

DSWD Field Office Caraga extends its gratitude to PIA Caraga for the platform to promote solo parent welfare and ensure wider public awareness.