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Samal Island CSWDO Releases 2nd Quarter Cash Subsidy to Indigent Solo Parents

Empowering Families: LGU Samal Releases 2nd Quarter Financial Subsidy to Indigent Solo Parents

In a continuous effort to uplift vulnerable sectors and champion family-centric welfare, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) has officially distributed the second-quarter financial assistance to indigent solo parents.

The cash distribution, which took place on June 10, 2026, at the spacious City Hall Atrium in Barangay Peñaplata, brought direct relief to forty (40) qualified solo-parent beneficiaries. Each recipient took home ₱3,000 in cash, covering three months of accumulated social welfare subsidies.

This timely assistance is more than just financial relief—it is a concrete manifestation of Samal’s commitment to localization and active implementation of national mandates.

The Legal Backbone: Localizing the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act (RA 11861)

The regular release of the solo parent cash subsidy in Samal is anchored on progressive local legislation. Through Resolution No. 2057, series of 2024, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Samal officially adopted the provisions of Republic Act No. 11861, widely known as the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act.

Samal Island CSWDO Releases 2nd Quarter Cash Subsidy to Indigent Solo Parents

Under the leadership of City Mayor Lemuel “Toto” T. Reyes, Samal has fast-tracked the delivery of these critical social services. The Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act mandates that local government units provide a monthly cash subsidy of ₱1,000 to solo parents who earn the minimum wage or below, ensuring they have an economic safety net to raise their children in a dignified manner.

By structuring the distribution quarterly, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) ensures that beneficiaries receive a significant lump sum of ₱3,000, which can go a long way in paying for utilities, school supplies, medical needs, and basic household groceries.

Are You a Solo Parent in Samal? How to Apply for CSWDO Benefits

If you are a single mother, single father, or a legal guardian solely raising a child in Samal Island, you may be eligible to receive this monthly subsidy and other statutory discounts.

To help you get started, here is a step-by-step guide to applying for your Solo Parent Identification Card (SPIC) through CSWDO Samal:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Under RA 11861, you qualify as a solo parent if you are solely providing parental care and support due to:

  • Death of a spouse.

  • Legal or de facto separation (for at least 6 months).

  • Declaration of nullity or annulment of marriage.

  • Abandonment by the spouse.

  • Unmarried status (single motherhood/fatherhood) where you keep sole custody of the child.

  • Low-income status (earning equal to or below the regional minimum wage).

Note: Dependents are now covered up to 22 years old, provided they are unmarried, unemployed, and enrolled in school.

Step 2: Prepare the Mandatory Documents

Before visiting Peñaplata, gather the following requirements:

  1. Barangay Certificate of Residency (proving you have lived in your Samal barangay for at least the last 6 months).

  2. PSA Birth Certificate(s) of your child/children or dependent(s).

  3. Proof of Solo Parent Status (e.g., Death Certificate of spouse, Court Decree of separation/nullity, or a signed Barangay Affidavit of Solo Parent Status).

  4. Proof of Income (Income Tax Return, Certificate of Indigency from your Barangay, or Certificate of Low Income).

  5. Filled-out Application Form (available at the CSWDO office).

Step 3: Visit the CSWDO Office in Peñaplata

Bring your complete documents to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO):

  • Office Location: Room 105, Ground Floor, New City Hall Building, Barangay Peñaplata, Samal District, Island Garden City of Samal.

  • Contact Number: 0938-1932-0056

  • Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Once your documents are assessed by an assigned social worker, they will issue your Solo Parent Identification Card (SPIC) and the accompanying purchase booklet. This card is valid for one (1) year and must be renewed annually to ensure there is no cohabitation or change in status.

Building a Stronger, More Compassionate Samal Island

The June 10 subsidy distribution is a testament to the fact that the Island Garden City of Samal is a progressive, caring Component City. Under the stewardship of Mayor Reyes and the dedicated social workers of CSWDO, no family is left behind.

As the city continues to grow economically through tourism and infrastructure, safeguarding the welfare of its local families remains the LGU’s top priority.

Stay tuned to Samalhub for more updates on local governance, community news, and essential guides for Samalenyos!