by Jan Albert K. Araña
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)–Solo parents will now enjoy additional discounts on the purchase of various goods in drug stores, pharmacies, grocery stores, and similar establishments through Republic Act No. 11861, or the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2022, authored by Cagayan de Oro City 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is expected to give solo parents with children younger than six and annual incomes of less than P250,000 a 10% discount and a 12% VAT exemption.
Solo parents will be able to avail themselves of a discount and VAT exemption on the following products: baby’s milk, food and micronutrient supplements, sanitary diapers, medicines, vaccines, and other medical supplements.
Solo parents will need to bring their solo parent ID card and booklet to the business in order to get the discounts and exemptions from VAT.
The solo parent identification card and booklet can be obtained at the City Social Welfare and Development Office after thirty days upon filling out the following requirements: barangay certification certifying the solo parent’s residency in the barangay for the last six months; certificates, e.g., birth certificates of children, death certificates of spouse, and other appropriate documentary support, income tax return, or any document that will establish the income level of the solo parent.
The solo parent ID is then valid for one year and is renewable.
Aside from the discounts, an additional P1,000 monthly cash subsidy will be given to qualified solo parents who are earning minimum wage. They are also entitled to priority in low-cost housing, health insurance coverage, scholarship programs, apprenticeships, and livelihood training for their children. (JAKA/PIA-10/Misamis Oriental)
