What it is
Starting September 24, the PhilHealth premium contributions for employed solo parents in both public and private sectors will no longer be taken from their monthly salaries. This change is part of the implementation of PhilHealth's circular, which complies with Section 15(c) of Republic Act No. 11861, also known as the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act.
Key points
- The National Government will now fully cover the employee's share of the PhilHealth premium contribution for solo parents in the formal economy.
- Employers are still required to pay their corresponding share of the contribution.
- The law also provides other benefits under RA 11861, including a 7-Day Parental Leave for those who have worked with their employer for at least six months.
- There is also a proposed ₱1,000 Monthly Cash Subsidy from the Local Government Unit (LGU) for those earning minimum wage or below the poverty threshold.
Who is affected
This applies to solo parents working in both the public and private sectors. The definition of a solo parent under the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act includes several categories, such as unmarried parents, pregnant women providing sole care, and those separated or widowed. For a child to qualify for benefits, they must live with the solo parent and depend on them for support.
What teachers should do
To avail of the PhilHealth exemption and other privileges, qualified working solo parents must first secure a valid Solo Parent ID and its booklet from their respective Local Government Unit (LGU). They must then present this ID to their company's Human Resources department so that the necessary PhilHealth adjustments and leave credits can be processed.