Bridging Policy and Reality: Filipino Solo Parents' Utilization of Benefits under the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act

Abstract

Solo parents in the Philippines face significant challenges in utilizing government programs despite progressive welfare legislation. This study examined the utilization of benefits under the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act (RA 11861) among 89 registered solo parents in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines, providing empirical evidence for policy enhancement in semi-urban localities. It explored the influence of demographic factors on the level of benefit utilization and perceived challenges related to accessibility, socio-cultural factors, and institutional domains. Anchored in intersectionality theory, the study employed a descriptive correlational and comparative design. Results revealed a mixed pattern of utilization, with financial and healthcare-related benefits being moderately used, while educational support and work-life balance programs remained underutilized. Accessibility emerged as the most significant perceived challenge. No significant differences were found in benefit utilization across demographic factors, indicating that systemic and institutional challenges, rather than intersecting identities, primarily shape solo parents' experiences. Moreover, a moderate positive correlation was found between perceived challenges and benefit utilization, suggesting that greater difficulty prompts stronger engagement with available services. The study concludes that structural inefficiencies, rather than demographic profiles, hinder solo parents' utilization of benefits. The findings highlight the need to improve service delivery mechanisms, enhance information dissemination, and simplify bureaucratic processes to ensure that the Act effectively serves its intended beneficiaries and bridges the gap between policy intent and the lived realities of solo parents.