By CESAR JOLITO III

A P9-million cash subsidy was distributed for solo parents in Bacolod City, marking the start of a city-backed effort to provide direct financial relief to vulnerable families.

Implemented through the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the program will benefit 1,500 solo parents who will each receive P6,000, covering assistance for the July to December 2025 period.

The initial payout, held at the Villamonte Gym, served 750 beneficiaries and released P4.5 million on the first day alone.

City officials said the subsidy is intended to help solo parents manage daily household needs, health-related expenses, and education costs for their children amid rising living expenses.

A second tranche of payouts is scheduled on February 18 for the remaining beneficiaries.

Solo parents who are unable to attend either distribution date may still claim their assistance directly at the DSSD office at the Bacolod City Government Center, provided they present a valid Solo Parent ID and required documents.

City social welfare officials also urged recipients to use the assistance responsibly./CJ, WDJ