DTI’s ‘EduConsumer’ to empower solo moms

By Paulo DS. Papa

THE Department of Trade and Industry is launching a program that aims to help single mothers to face the everyday bout in life with guts and courage.

Called “EduConsumer” project, the undertaking will be conducted in the form of a talk wherein the participants will be fed with knowledge and understanding about their rights and privileges as solo parents and as consumers. “The program is one important thing that we can offer to them as we celebrate the Women’s Month,” said Jay Percival Ablan, DTI-Camarines Sur provincial head.

The EduConsumer will reel off at 1:30 in the afternoon on Saturday, March 25, at the Robinsons Place Naga. The lecture, which will admit attendees from the city and different Camarines Sur towns, does not require any payment or cost.

Ablan said that the activity is part of the national celebration of Women’s Month and is being offered exclusively to single moms who wish to be equipped with information about the services and benefits made available for them by the government.

“The DTI admires solo moms who are full of courage facing the challenges if only to ensure the wellbeing of their children. They work to earn a living while taking good care of their children,” he said.

He said that by attending the talk, the participants will be well-informed about their privileges as provided for under the RA 11861 or the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act.

Under the law, the government offers scholarship grants for children of solo parents aged 21 and below. The act also allow solo parents to avail monthly allowance from the government and discounts in grocery products, medicine, medical and dental services.

Ablan added that the RA 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines is included in the discussion thus, participating solo mothers will be informed about their rights as consumers described in the act and will know what to do in case of issues on availing basic and primary commodities.

The DTI Camarines Sur head also ascertained that the participants will also be informed on government agencies that provides such services in relation to the said acts.

The DTI organized the activity in partnership with the Zonta Club Naga, a civic organization composed of women members and officers.

Zonta, as another role player in the program, will coordinate soon with City Councilor Gilda Gayle Abonal - Gomez, chairman of the committee on women and gender development of the 14th Sangguniang Panlungsod ng Naga concerning the activity for women.

Ablan advised solo mothers who are interested to participate in the program to contact the DTI Camarines Sur via Facebook messenger or thru this number: 0917-115-8753.