Olowan asserts implementation of Solo Parent Ordinance

August 5, 2019 Metro BLISTT

BAGUIO CITY – “We already approved the ordinance. The IRR (Implementing Rules and Regulations) has also been prepared by the executive branch. We should now implement the law,” Olowan declared during the City Council’s discussion on the issues regarding the Solo Parent Ordinance raised by Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda.
Tabanda said that a certain provision in the ordinance is in conflict with Republic Act 7892, an act providing for benefits and privileges to solo parents and their children, appropriating funds and for other purposes.
“I am very much in favor of the Solo Parent Ordinance. However, RA 7892 provides for an income level. The solo parents who will avail of benefits, particularly the monetary benefits, should have an income not higher than poverty level incidents in a locality. In the ordinance itself and its IRR, there is no income level.
Does it mean that regardless of income, they can avail of the benefits and privileges?” Tabanda claimed. Section 4 of RA 7892 states, “Any solo parent whose income in the place of domicile falls below the poverty threshold as set by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and subject to the assessment of the DSWD worker in the area shall be eligible for assistance…”
Tabanda also pointed out several inconsistencies in the provisions of the ordinance. Olowan suggested possible amendment of the recently enacted ordinance in response to the points raised by Tabanda.
“If we want it amended, then we can do some amendatory procedures. But that will not stop the implementation of the said ordinance. That should be part of the report of the Committee,” Olowan added.
The matter was referred to the Committee on Social Services, Women, and Urban Poor.
 
Jordan G. Habbiling-SPBIO/ABN