Section 1. Section 1 of Republic Act No. 8972, entitled “An Act Providing for Benefits and Privileges to Solo Parents and Their Children, Appropriating Funds Therefor and for Other Purposes”, is amended to read as follows:

“Section 1. Title. – This Act shall be known as the ‘Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act.”


Section 2. Section 2 of Republic Act No. 8972 is amended to read as follows:

“Section 2. Declaration of Policy. – It is the policy of the State to promote a just and dynamic social order that ensures the prosperity and independence of the nation and free the people from poverty through policies that provide adequate social services, promote full employment, a rising standard of living and an improved quality of life. The State shall also promote social justice in all phases of national development, value the dignity of every human person and guarantee full respect for human rights. Towards these ends, the government shall:

(a) Support the natural and primary rights and duty of solo parents in rearing their children by providing for their basic needs, and extending to them assistance in social service and welfare benefits, with the end in view of uplifting their status and circumstances; and

(b) Adhere to international agreements and national laws on families.”


Section 3. Section 3 of Republic Act No. 8972 is amended to read as follows: