Solo Parents Party-list lauds MRT-3, LRT-2’s free rides on solo parents week

MANILA, Philippines – The Solo Parents Party-list has lauded the management of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2), for extending free rides to solo parents on 26 April 2025 in celebration of National Solo Parents’ Week.

“We sincerely commend MRT-3 and LRT-2 for this meaningful act of support. This is more than just a free ride—it’s a symbolic recognition of the hard work and resilience of solo parents,” said Dr. Rouselle Teodosio of Solo Parents Partylist.

“Every gesture that acknowledges their contributions to our society is a step toward inclusivity and empowerment, “she added.

The initiative, which allowed qualified solo parents to ride for free upon presentation of a valid Solo Parent ID, was praised as a thoughtful gesture that recognizes the daily struggles and sacrifices of solo parents across the country.

However, Solo Parents Partylist also acknowledged a key challenge: not all solo parents can easily secure a Solo Parent ID, the main requirement to access government benefits such as this free train rides.

Complicated application processes, lack of awareness, and varying local government implementations continue to hinder many solo parents from receiving the support they deserve.

“This is exactly why the Solo Parents Party-list is fighting to be the voice of solo parents in Congress,” Teodosio emphasized.

“We need to strengthen policies to make the Solo Parent ID more accessible, streamline its application, unified, and ensure that all solo parents—regardless of their background—can claim their rights and benefits.”

While the Solo Parents Welfare Act has provided an essential foundation by granting additional parental leave, work flexibility, and other benefits, the Solo Parents Party-list asserts that deeper, more inclusive reforms are needed.

These include a more accessible registration and streamline processing of solo parents ID, wider access to healthcare, more flexible parental work arrangement, livelihood assistance, and expanded financial aid.

As the observance of National Solo Parents’ Week continues, the Solo Parents Party-list calls on both public and private sectors to continue working together in creating an environment where solo parents are supported sustainably—through representation, legislation, and action that reflect their realities and help them thrive.