IMPLEMENTATION OF ORDINANCE NO. 22-36 S.

2023
OF SOLO PARENT IN BATANGAS CITY

A Thesis
Presented to the Faculty of
College of Accountancy, Business and Economics
International Hospitality Management
Batangas State University
Pablo Borbon Campus

In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Public Administration

By:

Deniel Louize A. Danao

Johlan S. Gonzales
Francine Joy M. Pagcaliwagan

December 2024
 APPROVAL SHEET

This thesis, IMPLEMENTATION OF ORDINANCE NO. 22-36 S.2023 OF

SOLO PARENT IN BATANGAS CITY, prepared and submitted by Deniel Louize A.
Danao, Johlan S. Gonzales, Francine Joy M. Pagcaliwagan in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Public Administration, has been examined and
is recommended for acceptance for oral examination.

MARIA THERESA A. HERNANDEZ, MPA

Adviser

Approved by the Committee on Oral Examination with a grade of ______

PANEL OF EXAMINERS

LORENA F. MENDOZA, DPA

Chairperson

CAMILO C. ALULOD, Ph.D NORJEHANNE N. JAMAEL

Member Member

Accepted and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree
Bachelor of Public Administration.

_________________ BENDALYN M. LANDICHO, Ph.D., AFBE

Date Dean, CABEIHM
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The completion of this study will never be possible without the help of important

people who shared their precious time and academic expertise and ideas. The researchers

would like to express their deepest gratitude and sincerest appreciation to:

Dr. Bendalyn Landicho, Dean of the College of Accountancy, Business,

Economics, and International Hospitality Management, for accepting this study in partial

fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Bachelor of Public Administration;

Ms. Maria Theresa A. Hernandez, the research adviser and researchers'

grammarian, for her invaluable assistance, encouragement in this work, constructive

criticism, valuable suggestions, and unending forbearance throughout the course of this

study and for sharing her knowledge and expertise especially in English in helping the

researchers to construct sentences correctly;

Dr. Lorena F. Mendoza, the researchers' chairperson, for her suggestions, support,

and constructive criticism to make this study successful;

Dr. Camilo C. Alulod and Ms. Norjehanne N. Jamael, the researchers' panels

member, for their guidance and for being an accommodating consultant for the betterment

of this study;

Ms. Jeanne Mae L. Ilao, the statistician, for sharing her knowledge and expertise

especially in mathematics in helping the researchers to analyze the result;

Local Government Unit of Batangas City, for the assistance and unending support

in providing the necessary data and information researchers require;

Registered Solo Parents in Municipality of Batangas City, for lending their time on

answering questionnaires as respondents;

iii
 Ever-supportive and loving parents, family, and pets, for their patience and

encouragement, for their unending love and concern, as well as their moral, spiritual, and

financial support throughout the study;

College best friends, for the unwavering support in every aspect, consistently being

the source of inspiration, particularly throughout this study;

Researchers (Deniel, Johlan, Francine), for the immense effort and commitment put

forth to ensure the success of this study; for persistently choosing to carry on and

collaborate despite challenges;

Above all, to Almighty God, for the blessings, wisdom, knowledge, strength, and

guidance He bestowed upon the researchers and those who supported them throughout the

study.

Deniel Louize
Johlan
Francine Joy

iv
 DEDICATION

To the incredible solo parents of Batangas City, your strength, courage, and

unwavering love are the foundation on which your families are built. In the face of

challenges that many cannot even imagine, you continue to rise, day after day, with grace

and determination. You are not just parents — you are warriors, providers, protectors, and

the heartbeats of your households.

You juggle countless roles with tireless devotion, balancing work, household

chores, and the nurturing of your children with a love that knows no limits. In the quiet

moments when exhaustion sets in, remember that your sacrifice does not go unnoticed. The

future of Batangas City shines brighter because of the example you set — a testament to

resilience, hope, and unyielding commitment.

This dedication is for you, the unsung heroes whose love and perseverance light the

way for the next generation. You are seen, you are valued, and you are deeply admired.

May you continue to inspire all of us with your strength and unbreakable spirit.

v
 ABSTRACT

This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023,

the Expanded Solo Parents Act of 2023, in Batangas City. Specifically, it sought to

determine the demographic profile of solo parents in terms of age, sex, category, number

of children, employment status, and occupation. The research assessed the ordinance’s

implementation in terms of policy objectives, content, and context. Additionally, it

examined whether significant differences exist in the assessment of implementation based

on demographic variables and proposed communication materials to enhance information

dissemination and ordinance awareness.

A descriptive quantitative research design was utilized, employing a structured

survey questionnaire as the primary data-gathering instrument. The study targeted

registered solo parents in Batangas City and achieved a sample size of 294 respondents

across 105 barangays. Data collection involved systematic procedures, including

permission from local offices and barangay representatives. The survey covered the

demographic profile, policy objectives, ordinance content, and implementation context.

Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, weighted mean, one-way ANOVA, and t-

tests were employed to analyze the data.

Findings revealed that most respondents were middle-aged (36-45 years old),

female, and belonged to Category A7 (abandoned solo parents). The majority had one to

three children and were employed in varied roles such as vendors, barangay staff, and small

business owners. Respondents expressed strong agreement with the ordinance’s policy

objectives, particularly in promoting social justice, providing financial and social support,

and addressing disparities faced by solo parents. However, challenges like lack of

vi
awareness, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and accessibility issues hindered effective

implementation. Significant differences in the assessment of the ordinance’s

implementation were observed across demographic groups, emphasizing the need for

tailored approaches to address their diverse challenges.

The output of the study was the development of a proposed set of Information,

Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, specifically brochures, aimed at

enhancing awareness and understanding of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023. These materials

were designed to provide clear, concise information on the ordinance’s provisions,

benefits, and processes. This study underscores the importance of efficient policy

dissemination, adequate resources, and streamlined processes to maximize the benefits of

Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 for solo parents in Batangas City.

vii
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

TITLE PAGE ................................................................................................. i

APPROVAL SHEET ..................................................................................... ii

ACKNOWLEDGMENT ............................................................................... iii

DEDICATION ……………………………………………………………… v

ABSTRACT ………………………………………………………………… vi

TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................. viii

LIST OF TABLES ......................................................................................... x

LIST OF FIGURES ....................................................................................... xii

CHAPTER

I. THE PROBLEM

Introduction…………......................................................................................... 1

Statement of the Problem ................................................................................... 4

Hypothesis of the Study ..................................................................................... 4

Scope, Delimitation and Limitation of the Study……………........................... 5

Significance of the Study………….................................................................... 6

II. REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Conceptual Literature…………......................................................................... 7

Research Literature…………............................................................................ 19

Theoretical Framework ………......................................................................... 29

Conceptual Framework…………...................................................................... 31

Definition of Terms…………............................................................................ 32

viii
 III. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design .................................................................................................. 35

Respondents/Participants/Subjects/None of the Study ........................................ 35

Data Gathering Instrument .................................................................................. 35

Data Gathering Procedure ................................................................................... 37

Statistical Treatment of Data ............................................................................... 38

Ethical Considerations …………………………………………………………. 39

IV. PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

OF DATA

Profile of the Respondents................................................................................... 40

Assessment on Implementation Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 of Solo Parents in

Batangas City…………………............................................................................ 47

Differences on the Responses when Grouped According to

Profile................................................................................................................... 55

Proposed Output................................................................................................... 74

Actual Output........................................................................................................ 76

V. SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary .............................................................................................................. 77

Conclusions .......................................................................................................... 78

Recommendations ................................................................................................ 79

REFERENCES.................................................................................................... 81

APPENDICES
BIOGRAPHIC SKETCH

ix
 LIST OF TABLES

Table No. Title Page

1 Reliability 37

2 Scale and Interpretation 38

3 Distribution of respondents by age 41

4 Distribution of respondents by sex. 42

5 Distribution of respondents by category 44

6 Distribution of respondents by number of children 46

7 Distribution of respondents by employment status 47

8 Respondents Assessment on Policy Objectives 48

9 Respondents Assessment on Content 51

10 Respondents Assessment on Context 53

11 Differences on Respondents’ Response When Grouped

according to age 56

12 Differences on Respondents’ Response When Grouped

according to sex 59

13 Differences on Respondents’ Response When Grouped

according to category 61

14 Differences on Respondents’ Response When Grouped

according to Number of Children 64

15 Differences on Respondents’ Response When Grouped

according to Employment Status 66

16 Post Hoc Analysis of Age 68

x
17 Post Hoc Analysis of Category 70

18 Post Hoc Analysis of No. of Children 73

xi
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No. Title Page

1 Figure 1. Marilee S. Grindle Model Source: Grindle (1980) 31

2 Figure 2. Conceptual Paradigm 33

xii
 CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM

Introduction

Solo parenthood, defined as the act of raising children alone due to various

circumstances such as divorce, separation, death of a partner, or personal choice, has

become increasingly prevalent in contemporary society. This phenomenon transcends

geographical boundaries and cultural contexts, affecting individuals worldwide. The

challenges faced by solo parents are multifaceted, encompassing economic, social, and

emotional dimensions. As such, there is a growing recognition of the need to provide

support and assistance to solo parents to enable them to fulfill their parental responsibilities

effectively.

The issue that requires solving in the process of applying Ordinance No. 22-36, The

Expanded Solo Parents Act of 2023, in Batangas City is complex and critical. A significant

challenge affecting the social and legal enforcement of the ordinance is the fact that many

of the solo parents are not knowledgeable about the ordinance or the benefits they are

entitled to. Therefore, due to lack of sufficient information, solo parents cannot reap

maximum benefits from the reinforcement structures meant to help them. This lack of

awareness results in the failure to seek funds and other services, as well as legal remedies

that the ordinance attempts to address, consequently, sustaining the social, economic, and

emotional goals of the ordinance. Furthermore, these measures reveal an absence of

awareness, which widens existing inequalities as the most disadvantaged solo parents are

already restricted in their access to information

 2

Even if solo parents are fully informed of the ordinance, they could experience

tremendous difficulties in accessing the resource and support services. Potential barriers

that can be encountered in bureaucracies include client un-friendliness, which can be

illustrated by complicated procedures to be followed and strict paperwork that makes it

difficult for a solo parent to seek assistance. Geographical factors are also a consideration,

since solo parents living in the countryside or in the provinces would not be able to get the

services easily. Also, lack of time due to the responsibilities brought about by solo

parenthood reduces the time they can utilize while going through available sources. These

compromise the aims of the ordinance, which is why it is crucial to improve efficiency and

equitable access to support services.

On a global scale, the solo parenthood discussion has evolved alongside the shifting

family model and societal norms. The concept of a traditional nuclear family has changed

to a family setting with various forms such as single-parent households led by solo parents.

In many countries, policy makers have found that solo parents have specific needs that

require tailored non-governmental initiatives to support them. Such efforts cover different

areas: financial assistance programs, legal protection, and social services that specifically

target the challenges of solo parents.

At the local level, the implementation of ordinances for solo parents targets to close

the gap between policy intentions and practical support measures. In Batangas City,

Ordinance No. 22-36, The Expanded Solo Parents Act of 2023 was approved to render

assistance and empower solo parents in the jurisdiction. The ordinance spells out these

particular provisions and advantages designed to relieve the challenges faced by solo

parents while ensuring their social inclusion and economic stability.

 3

Despite the existence of Ordinance No. 22-36, the extent of its implementation

among solo parents regarding its provisions and benefits remains unclear. Lack of

awareness may impede the effective utilization of available resources and support services,

thereby undermining the objectives of the ordinance. Furthermore, gaps in awareness may

exacerbate existing inequalities and disparities among solo parents, particularly those from

marginalized backgrounds.

The Solo Parent Ordinance No. 22-36, Series of 2023 is consistent with the

principles and objectives of Public Administration, especially the subject of social welfare.

Communication is a vital component of problem-solving situations wherein as Public

Administration students, this study explores effects of this ordinance on solo parents’

availability and utilization of key services or entitlements including financial support,

health services, education programs for their children. It assesses the operationalization

strategies of the ordinance, especially focusing on the LGUs’ on provision of efficient

services.

The analysis of the case related to Ordinance No. 22-36 is naturally connected to

the domain of public administration theory and practice. This enhances understanding of

policy implementation, fairness and efficiencies in service delivery, contextual planning as

well as co-ordinate community in addressing the complex issues that solo parents

encounter. It is therefore the duty of public administrators to strive and close the gap

between policy formulation and implementation in a bid to properly support the solo

parents.
 4

Statement of the Problem

This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023

of Solo Parents in Batangas City. Specifically, this sought answers to the following

questions:

1. What is the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of:

1.1 Age;

1.2 Sex;

1.3 Category;

1.4 Number of Children;

1.5 Employment Status; and

1.6 Occupation?

2. How do the respondents assess the implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 of

Solo Parents in Batangas City in terms of:

2.1 Policy objectives;

2.2 Content; and

2.3 Context?

3. Is there a significant difference in the assessment on the implementation of Ordinance

No. 22-36 s.2023? When respondents are grouped according to profile variables?

4. Based on the findings, what communication material may be produced to help intensify

the information dissemination and implementation of the said ordinance?

Hypothesis of the Study

The study tested the following hypotheses:

 5

Ho: There is no significant difference on the assessment on the Implementation of

Ordinance No. 22-36 s.2023.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study focused on the implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023, known

as the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, in Batangas City. It specifically evaluated the

policy's objectives, content, and context as the three primary variables of interest. The

demographic profiles of solo parents, such as age, sex, category, number of children,

employment status, and occupation, were also considered to identify potential links

between these characteristics and the ordinance's implementation.

The study was limited to analyzing only the policy's objectives, content, and context

due to the ordinance being newly enacted. As a result, outcomes and impacts of the law

were not included in this research, as sufficient data for evaluation will only be available

at least three years after its implementation. This limitation ensured the study remained

focused on the initial stages of policy execution.

This research specifically targeted solo parents living in the City of Batangas,

Philippines, and it did not cover solo parents living in other parts of the province of

Batangas as well as outside the City of Batangas. While this method provided room for

data reflecting the local situation, it narrowed down the scope of the research which did

not allow for the generalization of the results to the solo parents in other areas. Furthermore,

the inquiry was limited to the implementation of the stated Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023. It

did not look into the consciousness of other relevant policies or ordinances. Nevertheless,

this study aimed to bring forth informative insights that will help government structures

and welfare programs to become more efficient for solo parents within Batangas City.
 6

Significance of the Study

This study focused on the compliance of Ordinance No. 22-36 s.2023 regarding

benefits and protection of solo parents in Batangas City with reference to the provisions

that would enhance the quality of life of those solo parents. Concerning the contribution

to knowledge, the study reveals possible utility to the following stakeholders: The solo

parents, community leaders, policymakers, the social service providers and the advocacy

groups. New awareness of rights for a solo parent may result in better lobby and access to

services, and thus improve living standard for a part of the population which is often in a

rather poor situation because of sole responsibility for a child. The various findings can

be useful to: Community leaders when planning educational campaigns; and

policymakers when planning how to address areas left uncovered by the current

ordinance for the ordinance to cover more ground. Government agencies and non-

government organizations and social workers are in a good position to come up with an

outreach program for the solo parents to enable them access the necessary services.

The various advocacy groups that focus on the welfare of solo parents across the

country can use these findings of the study to address other related issues of solo parents

not only in Batangas City but other parts of the country as well. To the Public

Administration students, the research provides recommendations for improving projects

focused on solo parents, contributing to the development of those concepts. The present

researchers for example can use the study in relation to the manner in which they assess

policies that benefit the needy through the enhancement of ways of pointing out the

deficiencies and the requirement of policy change. Thus, future researchers can extend

the study and look into other similar policies and programs to further clarify and enhance

present knowledge of the requirements of solo parents.

 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Conceptual Literature

This section addresses the key terms and concepts that are important for

understanding the topic. The study is based on the data that proponents consider crucial for

the study.

Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 (Expanded Solo Parent Welfare Ordinance of Batangas

City)

The execution of social policies, such as Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023, pertains to

the implementation and provision of services for or on behalf of the target populations

based on the legislative intent. This process is informed by frameworks that lay down

objectives of policy, available resources, and the communication channels for

implementing the policy (Sabatier & Mazmanian, 2014). Several factors must be put into

consideration to make the implementation process successful; these are the government

agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the community (Pressman and Wildavsky,

2014).

Policy objectives

The legislation proposed by 22-36 S. 2023 can be seen both as a single package and

as a separate component to address a number of different issues related to the

comprehensive support for solo parents in Batangas City. First, it aims to provide funds

that would assist solo parents mitigate financial inconvenience that comes with

childbearing. It also allows for access to adequate social services such as healthcare,

education, and accommodation which help to improve the social life of solo parents and
 8

their children. The distribution of resources is also an important goal since it seeks to ensure

that solo parents get legal protection in their countries.

Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023 can be viewed as both an overall legislative initiative

or as individual legislative initiatives to: 1) strengthen family support and care for children;

2) reform family legal regulation; 3) support those citizens of Batangas City who are raising

children alone; 4) protect the rights of lesbian women parents; 5) support the adoption of

children by same-sex couples. First, it envisions supporting upfront costs for childbearing

that solo parents would otherwise face. It also grants adequate access to social services

including health care, education and housing which can boost the social lives of solo

parents and their children. Dissemination of resources also becomes another important goal

since it aims to promote legal support for solo parents in their countries.

The ordinance also supports the argument that solo parents need to be supported

collaboratively as members of a community. This includes such effective methods as the

development of cooperation with NGOs and local businesses and the community at large

to provide additional resources. The ordinance seeks to improve the sustainability of solo

parents by establishing community-based programs that will allow them to connect at

multiple levels. Above all it empowers single mothers to become part of the decision

making process as regards their needs as natural and sole caregivers of the family. By

implementing these measures, the Ordinance will ensure comprehensive safety. 22-36 S.

2023 aims to provide short-term relief for the poor family headed by single mothers and

mothers-in-law but at the same time address the underlying issue to ensure long-term

economic security and financial independence.

 9

These programs are set up for the purpose of socially empowering solo parents for

group association, hence strengthening their social relations. It will also be useful for single

mothers to receive the latest ordinance, which aims at allowing these women to participate

in decision-making processes regarding their needs for being solo parents. This makes it

possible to provide short-term social welfare support to financially disadvantaged families

while targeting the root cause to enable them to be economically stable and thus financially

independent.

The outputs of Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023 reflect its comprehensive approach to

supporting solo parents in Batangas City. Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023 in Batangas City

provides financial assistance to solo parents, enhancing their quality of life and social

inclusion. It provides subsidies and grants to alleviate financial pressures and improve

access to essential social services like healthcare, education, and housing. The ordinance

enforces legal protections, promoting equality for marginalized groups like lesbian women

and same-sex couples. It fosters community engagement through partnerships with NGOs,

local businesses, and support programs. By involving solo parents in decision-making

processes, the ordinance empowers them and promotes long-term financial independence

and economic security.

The policy objectives of Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023 target the diverse concerns

of solo parents in different aspects of their lives. From the perspective of policy

implementation theories, goals matter in influencing policy implementation because they

are precise and coherent (Matland, 2014). SMART stands for specific, measurable,

achievable, relevant and time-bound and this makes the objectives to have a clear direction

for implementation (Doran 2014). The goals of the ordinance are to help financially, offer
 10

social services, offer legal aid, increase employment prospects, educate, assist with mental

health, and facilitate social integration.

The social and financial difficulties that single parents of all family sizes encounter

are addressed under the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act. Garcia & Reyes (2023)

pointed out that the Act's provisions are intended to accommodate both the minority with

bigger families and the majority with fewer children, guaranteeing that all single parents

get the help they need to succeed. While staying flexible to help single parents across all

classifications, the Act guarantees that the majority of single parents receive significant

assistance by matching resources with the most common categories.

Content

The provisions of Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023, entitled An Act Providing for the

Protection, Enhancement and Establishment of Solo Parents’ Rights and Welfare in

Batangas City, emphasizes a multifaceted approach to the needs and concerns of solo

parents. This legislation starts by highlighting who a solo parent is, those who are single

by virtue of divorce, legal separation, widowed, or celibacy. It also pertains to one of the

major issues of solitary parents in terms of financial capabilities and financial difficulties

by offering subsidies aimed at liberating parents from the stressful financial situation

caused by the need to care for children alone. Also, the ordinance guarantees these

vulnerable individuals their right to access basic human needs such as health facilities,

schools, and homes through special programs focusing on organizing single parent homes.

The intention of enacting the Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023 is to set the legal

framework and substantive provisions for providing support and empowerment to solo

parents in Batangas City. The ordinance starts by providing who is regarded to be a solo
 11

parent to include those single by virtue of a divorce or a separation, the death of their spouse

or even by choice to be single. It also highlights financial subsidies delegating disposable

income to protect families that do not have an income because they are raising children as

sole parents. Moreover, the ordinance provides social services for free or at minimum costs

for the people who are solo parents and their children in particular through specific

programs designed for such services. Legal support is another one, this is the way the rights

of the solo parent are ensured and legal help is guaranteed in case of necessity.

The ordinance also provides for the promotion of work opportunities by providing

courses to enable the solo parents to acquire skills and get a job to attain financial security.

Moreover, it also highlights educating the public about the ordinance so that solo parents

would know what it offers to them and to access the services and resources that would help

them. In as much as the ordinance addresses general physical and psychological well-

being, provisions for counseling and mental health services have also been incorporated. It

also helps to expand the social networks of such people by establishing groups that support

these families to end the discrimination or stigma of solo parenthood. Finally, the ordinance

promotes the establishment of collaborative relations with such non-governmental

organizations and local businesses as well as charitable groups that will offer additional

support; thus contributing to the creation of a community for the development of such

families as single-parent households.

Considering the physical, social, and psychological aspects of families with solo

parents and their children, the ordinance includes the inclusion of measures relating to

counseling and mental health for the relief of the individuals’ psychological traumas. It

also pressures social integration through setting support groups and networks, with the
 12

intention of eradicating tendencies that depict solo parental care as undesirable and creates

a collective for the nurturing and developmental concerns of solo parent families. In

implementing this objective, the ordinance shall propose appropriate IEC materials that

address these elements so as to increase the awareness of the community together with

utilization of the services. These materials will be highly useful in relaying the necessary

information, giving awareness, and assisting the solo parents to avail the arrangements that

are solely intended for their benefit and thus enhance their quality of life and social

integration in Batangas City.

The ordinance content contains certain provisions and services aiming at mitigating

the needs of the solo parents. In this case, policy content also plays a significant role

because an effective policy should cater for needs and conditions of the target population

(Pressman & Wildavsky, 2014). The content should be as broad and diverse as possible,

including economic, social, legal and psychological approaches. There is always a way of

monitoring and evaluating the working of the policy so as to ensure that the formulated

objectives are being achieved (Hill & Hupe, 2014).

The Solo Parents' Welfare Act's provisions are intended to assist single parents who

are working as well as those who are not. Benefits like maternity leave and flexible work

schedules are crucial for working parents to balance their childcare requirements and work

obligations (Martinez, 2022). By lowering work-family friction, these clauses enable

parents to more successfully balance their duties as parents and professionals. Through

financial aid, livelihood training, and benefits for their children's education, the Act offers

essential help to families without jobs. Such policies can enable jobless single parents to
 13

better their financial circumstances and increase their employability through skill

development, as stated by Johnson (2019).

Context

Ordinance No. 22-36, The Expanded Solo Parents Act of 2023 derives from the

growing trend and acceptance of a solo parent lifestyle in Batangas City and the rest of the

country for that matter. In this manner the number of families with traditional nuclear

structure is diminishing with the growth of families with solo parents and this is due to

reasons ranging from divorce and separation to death or personal choice. This demographic

change has brought to attention the problems that have not only affected solo parents with

respect to their economic situation and social services, but also their legal status and

psychological situation. There has been an increased awareness worldwide that people with

solo parent experiences are in need of policies and programs specific to them. In order to

address the issues in line with global trends and those that are specifically felt in the local

community, the Batangas City council has enacted Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023. This

legislation will help to achieve the intentions of support policy and also ensure that the

assistance net is wide and covers the needs of the lone parents.

It takes its form as a reflection and commitment of the local government to improve

the welfare of the solo parents and their children. It realizes that there is a need for provision

of financial support to these parents, opening up of opportunities to access social services

and legal protection, provision of employment opportunities and the need to supplement

their psycho-social well-being. This is reflected in all the elements that the ordinance will

embody to make life comfortable and stress-free for the solo parents.
 14

The ordinance is an indicator that the local government is determined to enhance

the wellbeing of solo parents and the child. It recognizes the need for funding, service and

benefit entitlement, legal assistance, jobs, and improving psycho-social functioning. These

objectives are contained in the provisions of the ordinance to provide a comfortable and

stress-free lifestyle to one-parent families. Another feature of the ordinance is the focus on

the role of the community, and the work with NGOs, private sectors, and local groups as

extra support. Through engagement of the heads of solitary families in the policy making

process, the ordinance boasts of exercising the rights to protect their interests.

The areas that are covered in the form of protection the ordinance has given include;

financial or cash needs, social needs, legal needs, employment needs and psycho-social

needs of the solo parents and children. It intends to help establish a favorable condition

wherein solo parents can effectively discharge their roles and responsibilities as well as

ensure the family’s basic needs are met. Furthermore, the ordinance mandates participation

of NGO’s, private sectors, and other groups within the community to support and

strengthen the support structures of the solo parents and attain improved support structures

that uphold the rights of the group through participation and consultation on the ordinances.

In line with the provisions of Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023, the development of a

set of appropriate Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials are needed.

These materials will help in educating stakeholders on the provisions of the ordinance as

well as the benefits they are likely to gain especially concerning their roles, responsibilities

and rights. They will also remind the public about the plight of single-headed families and

the fact that the ordinance is not limited to these problems alone but a total solution. The

materials will specify the notification of available services and support systems provided
 15

under the ordinance including financial help, medical attention, school accommodations,

legal safeguards, and community programs. They will also seek to foster the participation

of the community in helping support headed families by popularizing activities such as

volunteering or fundraising, among others. It will influence the lives of solo parenthood in

the specific sense of the word by encouraging the use of positive messages and promoting

success stories, thereby enhancing the general morale, stability, and future prosperity of

solo parents.

This shows that the context in which the ordinance is implemented is very important

and determines the success of the measure. Determinants include the socio-economic

setting, cultural acceptance of solo parenthood, and availability of service structures

(Sabatier & Mazmanian, 2014). Knowledge of the local situation enables one to fit the

policy to meet certain problems and exploit available opportunities. For example, the socio-

economic characteristics of Batangas City, community structures and local government

capability are other contextual factors that have an effect on the enforcement of the

ordinance.

The Philippines is known for its close-knit families. Filipinos traditionally prioritize

family, often working tirelessly to provide for and care for their loved ones. This emphasis

on family unity often means keeping families together for extended periods, contrasting

with cultures where children move out upon reaching adulthood (Goyala, 2019). Philippine

society is highly distinctive as family relations take center stage and form the very

foundation of the society's values and norms, thus forming its unique culture. The backbone

of Filipino identity is the engraved value of family above everything else that makes them

sacrifice everything, not only for their own sake but most importantly, for the sake of their
 16

beloved family. This tie is not only an obligation but also it is a fraction of the sacred role

and pleasantness that is a part of the life of each Filipino. As opposed to societies which

promote independence and usually have their children already out of their nests after they

turn adults, Filipinos seem to hold dear the custom of families being together for elongated

spells. This carrying on of unity is a metaphor for the inner power and toughness generated

by the human bonds which overpass different generations and levels of existence.

Parenthood is not easy at all given all the demands of working life that can be

manifested in many ways. For so many parents, going without a salary is not an option as

couples who live on so little that the earnings of one of them might not be enough, and

those separated for whatever reason have to provide all by their means. Parenting is the

basic definition of taking care of children. Different from shared parenting, self-parenting

is no different than the conventional way of raising children except for having a solo parent.

Solo parents are those people who are left to raise children without the help of the other

biological parent; they can be mother-only or father-only families. It can be single parents

whose marriages have dissolved due to separation, divorce, or unfortunate loss which also

has the same effect. Single mothers and fathers can be heterosexual or homosexual same-

sex parenting couples though their marriage culture is not recognized. Individual

perceptions often emerge that single parents are mostly young, female, unemployed, or

have many children (Garner and Paterson 2014; Zartler 2014).

According to (Eagly, 1987; Eagly et al., 2000), Social Role Theory explores how

gender roles and stereotypes shape perceptions in different contexts. According to this

theory, societal expectations of men and women lead to differences in how they are

perceived in various roles, including policy-related ones. For instance, women are often
 17

seen as more communal (caring and supportive), while men are perceived as more agentic

(assertive and task-oriented). These perceptions can influence how policy content and

context are evaluated based on the gender of the respondents or those involved in policy-

making (Oxford Research Encyclopedia, 2020)

The needs of single parents, especially those in middle age who frequently juggle

job and family obligations, must be met by the implementation of this law. The government

acknowledges the pressing need to assist single parents in successfully raising their

children in spite of the numerous obstacles they encounter, according to Secretary Erwin

T. Tulfo of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Numerous

studies on the dynamics of families and the effects of social policies on families with one

parent lend validity to this theory. For example, a research by the Philippine Institute for

Development Studies (PIDS) states that certain measures may greatly enhance the financial

security and general well-being of single parents (PIDS, 2020). Financial assistance

programs such as cash transfers, subsidies, and tax benefits have been shown to reduce

poverty levels among single-parent households, as highlighted by the World Bank's

findings on social protection in the Philippines (World Bank, 2020). Additionally,

employment support initiatives offering job training and flexible scheduling have proven

effective in improving job outcomes for single parents, with research from the Philippine

Institute for Development Studies affirming the importance of tailored skills development

(PIDS, 2020). Access to affordable childcare services also plays a crucial role, enabling

single parents to pursue employment without the burden of childcare costs, as noted in a

UNICEF policy brief which emphasizes the positive impacts of accessible childcare on

single-parent families (UNICEF, 2021). Furthermore, mental health support and

 18

community services are vital for alleviating stress and enhancing parenting practices,

which is corroborated by studies from the National Institute of Mental Health, emphasizing

the significance of mental health resources for single parent well-being (NIMH, 2020).

Solo Parents

Literature on solo parents reveals that this group experiences high levels of

vulnerability, poverty, stigmatization, and lack of support (Harknett, 2014). Identifying the

demographic characteristics of heads of solo parent households—age, sex, category,

number of children, employment status, as well as occupation—is important in order to get

a picture of their particular situation and how they may engage with the ordinance.

Literature reviews have indicated that demographic characteristics can determine the

awareness and use of social services by clients (Wong & Piliavin, 2014).

Solo parents are classified into several categories based on the reasons for their

status. Code A1 includes individuals who became solo parents due to the consequences of

rape. Code A2 are those who became a solo parent because of the death of a spouse. Code

A3 are solo parents because of the detention of a spouse for at least three months. Other

categories encompass those whose spouses are mentally or physically incapable of

performing parental duties (Code A4); those separated either legally or de facto (Code A5);

individuals whose marriages were annulled or declared null and void (Code A6); and, those

abandoned by their spouse (Code A7). These categories reflect the varied and complex

realities faced by solo parents, which often dictate the type and level of support they

require.

In summary, the successful implementation of the ordinance depends on the clarity

of its policy objectives, its content and the context in which it will be implemented.
 19

Furthermore, there is a need for proper communication channels and good understanding

of the demographic nature of solo parent heads in order to benefit from this ordinance.

When incorporated into the ordinance, these elements can help improve the situation of

solo parents in Batangas City and include them into society more effectively. The objective

of this work is to present recommendations and suggestions to improve the efficiency of

this vital legislation.

Research Literature

This section reviews the research literature relevant to the study of Batangas City’s

Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023.

According to Rainbows and Butterflies (2015), the prevalence of solo parenthood

in the Philippines has increased significantly over the years, with an estimated 14 to 15

percent of the population being solo parents, accounting for around 3 million children in

solo parent households. This phenomenon presents both challenges and opportunities, as

evidenced by the inclusion of over 170,000 solo parent beneficiaries in the Pantawid

Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and the existence of more than 200 solo parent-

employees in the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). However,

there are concerns about the socio-economic implications of this trend, including the risk

of poverty, limited education opportunities for children, and vulnerability to crime and

exploitation. Additionally, reports of discrimination against children of solo parents in

Catholic institutions highlight the need for progressive state policies that recognize and

respect the diversity of family compositions and address stigma and discrimination in

educational settings.
 20

Martinez (2022) unveiled the often neglected distress that solo parents have to

confront, such as taboo, dismissal in society, and blackmail. Such battles go beyond

mothers only; children are the ultimate victims of this conflict too. This way, solo parents

can handle single parenthood by using different techniques such as spiritual ones, social

support ones, cognitive ones, economic ones, recreational, and self-development

initiatives. The conducted research used a cross sectional questionnaire, and a qualitative

phenomenological study method to explore this reality that solo parents usually struggle

financially, physically, psychologically and emotionally. Still, this rocky road gives solo

parents the courage and a clear line of vision to fight for their future in the safe place of job

security, independence, and their children's quality education. Thus, this study called for

increased societal knowledge about and provision of support to solo parents.

Ramos and Tus (2020) further stated that most solo parents were seen to be relying

on their faith, support from their family and community, and also their job for them to cope

with the struggles that they are facing. The research elucidated that a significant portion of

solo parents predominantly lean on three pillars for support: families' strong faith, the

invaluable provided by their families and community networks, and the stability provided

by their employment. This trinity of assets, indeed, constituted a lifeline for those parents,

granting them the power to meet various challenges along the way. By the means of

technique of faith, family ties, and honorable job, these determined characters confront

their obstacles but also gain strength, determination, and the capacity to excel, even under

the most difficult circumstances.

Collado and Arpon (2021) stated that no system in the Philippines helps distinguish

solo parent families from two-parent families. Therefore, when in calamities, there is no
 21

way a solo parent family could gain more help from the government compared to the other

families who could earn better. Aids are given generally to all households, not considering

the extra hardships that solo parents encounter. Government assistance comes in the form

of a single payment to all family members, ignoring the additional struggles solo parents

face on a day-to-day basis. This means that one-parent families are often left to cope on

their own and obtain what they need in a way that will not certainly be the most effective

for them, which becomes a clear area for welfare policies to focus on.

The study by Legarde (2023) mentioned that the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare

Act played a crucial role in improving the socio-economic conditions of households headed

by solo parents, demonstrating remarkable effectiveness in assisting. This law notably

simplified the process of accessing financial assistance, educational opportunities, and

social services, ultimately strengthening financial security and improving the general

welfare of solo parents. It also cultivated resilience among solo parents, enabling them to

manage their responsibilities effectively. The act of easing solo parents’ access to essential

resources such as financial aid, educational opportunities, and social services has

drastically been emphasized by the act's provisions, thus, making life easier for them. These

bills not only guarantee financial stability but also enhance resilience in the course of life

as solo parents are provided with the knowledge and tools to overcome the challenges. The

legal system has enabled solo parent households to overcome burdens and rise above

limitations, aiding in these families' general well-being and sustainability, a major step in

comprehensive societal support.

The study by Redoña (2023) explored the lived experiences of solo parents at a

university regarding RA 11861. While the focus was on higher education, it shed light on
 22

solo parents' perceptions of the act, including challenges with awareness and knowledge of

available benefits.

Additionally, solo parents in contractual jobs may struggle with work-life balance,

as evidenced in the research by Mortelmans et al. (2019). They often have to work longer

hours to compensate for the lack of benefits, leaving less time for childcare and other

household responsibilities. This imbalance can lead to stress and burnout for both the

parent and the children, as noted by the American Psychological Association (APA, 2019).

The study by Gasse (2020) aimed at understanding the views of solo parents living

in Belgium as they try to find a balance between work and mother while they are dealing

with a breakdown of their marriages. With attention given to General Strain Perspective,

the research found that the responsible difficulties in their life such as finances and roles

were the strains experienced by solo parents far more than those faced by married women

and men. Through qualitative analysis of 202 in-depth interviews, the study constructs a

typology of four distinct perspectives: that is the new motherhood perspective, re-invented

parenthood perspective, the work. family symbiosis perspective, the work-centered

parenthood perspective and the work-family conflict perspective. The views as well as

disciplinary approaches related to parenthood tend to differ depending on flexibility and

rigidity of the social beliefs and work environment. The results were a demonstration of

the significance of the initiatives which target reducing pressure on the work-life of solo

parents through effective management of financial and structural issues. Hence, there was

a need for the policymakers, employers and practitioners to draw into step in order to

mitigate these strains.

 23

Cancian and Meyer's (2018) findings regarding child support programs highlight

the need for increased financial resources for children in solo parent households.

Additionally, their research suggested promoting shared parental responsibility for

financial support. By focusing on livelihood development and employment opportunities

for solo parents, alongside existing research on social and psychological well-being, more

comprehensive understanding of their needs can be developed. This knowledge can guide

the creation of effective support systems that empower solo parents and improve the overall

well-being of their families.

Based on studies, women are more prevalent in roles such as single parenting

because of cultural norms that frequently place them in the role of primary caretaker. Smith

and Garcia (2021) found that single mothers often have more financial difficulties than

their male counterparts. This highlighted the necessity for supporting laws such as the

Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act. The gender distribution showed how important the

Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act is in assisting female single parents and making sure

that male single parents get the help they need. This alignment highlighted how crucial the

Act is to giving all single parents in the Philippines access to a thorough and welcoming

support network.

Abandonment as a means to single parenting is referred to within Category A7.

According to this classification, almost all of the research's single parents had become

parents on their own after experiencing relationship abandonment. Research by López

(2022) found that single parents who are abandoned frequently deal with serious emotional

and financial difficulties, which might affect their general wellbeing and ability to parent.
 24

This was consistent with research by López (2022), who observed that single

parents frequently choose the number of their families carefully in order to effectively

handle their limited financial resources. This fact is supported by the Expanded Solo

Parents Welfare Act, which emphasizes financial aid, education, and flexible work

schedules all of which are essential for assisting single parents in giving their kids,

regardless of family size, a secure home environment.

The Solo Parents' Welfare Act is essential to maintaining family stability since it

addresses the diverse demands of single parents with varying employment circumstances.

By guaranteeing that their careers can satisfy their children's emotional and financial needs,

comprehensive support systems greatly enhance outcomes for kids in single-parent

families, according to research by Smith and Jones (2021).

Natividad and San Mateo (2020) examined how job insecurity impacts single

parents' ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It was connected to emphasis on

resource allocation and support, suggesting that policies aimed at improving job security

and providing flexible work arrangements can alleviate stress for solo parents, thus

enhancing their overall quality of life.

Smith & Garcia (2021) found that supportive policies, such as flexible work

schedules and parental leave, significantly enhance the well-being of solo parents. Their

findings indicated that when policies are well-implemented, they lead to improved job

satisfaction and emotional well-being among single parents, aligning with the positive

reception noted in the evaluation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023.

There was also a study from Martinez & Chen (2019) highlighting the importance

of flexible work arrangements in promoting work-life balance for solo parents. They found
 25

that such provisions lead to a more positive perception of workplace policies among single

parents, supporting the findings of a mean score of 3.36 for flexible work schedules in the

ordinance evaluation.

Nguyen & Torres (2023) found that comprehensive support measures, including

training and medical assistance, are critical for the empowerment of solo parents. They

noted that low access to these additional benefits can hinder the overall effectiveness of

support policies, reflecting the lower mean scores of 2.39 for training and medical

assistance in the ordinance evaluation.

A positive assessment often reflected strong consensus among respondents about

the effectiveness or appropriateness of the context. This could mean that individuals feel

supported and valued within their environment. The respondents clearly perceived the

crucial societal, economical, and emotional challenges experienced by solo parents. The

effects of social isolation and discrimination witnessed by solo parents add to the feelings

of worthlessness and stress. Thus, according to research, the position of society influences

single parents’ quality of life and often adds more emotional loads (Murray, 2014).

According to Jeste et al. (2015), age-related differences in cognition and social

perception can significantly impact how individuals evaluate policy objectives and

implementation. Their research highlighted that older adults may prioritize social welfare

and security in policy discussions, reflecting their life experiences and concerns about

stability and health. Conversely, younger age groups often focus on innovation and

progress, which may lead to differing evaluations of policy content and context.

Further, a study by Tate et al., (2019) emphasized that generational divides in

values shape how various content types are received. Younger individuals, with a greater
 26

proclivity towards digital engagement, may react more favorably to contemporary policies

that utilize technology and social media, while older adults might prefer traditional

communication methods and policies grounded in established practices. This divergence

in perception can influence both the acceptance and effectiveness of policy initiatives.

Moreover, research by McGregor and Torseth (2021) showed that perceptions of

context in policy evaluation also vary significantly across age groups. Their findings

suggested that older adults often interpret the context of policy within a framework of

historical precedents and past experiences, impacting their assessment of current policy

relevance. In contrast, younger individuals are more likely to assess context through the

lens of contemporary societal challenges, such as climate change and inequality, leading

to differing evaluations of the same policy.

Moreover, studies like those by Dyck et al., (2018) looked into gender differences

in political trust and policy support. They found that gender can play a role in shaping how

policies are received, with women often displaying different levels of trust in government

initiatives compared to men. This can affect perceptions of policy objectives and their

effectiveness.

It was helpful to provide studies that demonstrated how demographic

characteristics affect answers and perceptions in comparable situations in order to bolster

the conclusions about variations in respondents' perceptions categorized by category.

Harris, A. & Jones, M. (2018) analyzed how various demographic groups determine the

policy environment as well as content in their study. According to the study, respondents

from different demographic backgrounds usually had very different opinions on how

effective policies were. The mean scores showed that accessibility and estimated
 27

effectiveness depended significantly from how clear and relevant the policy objectives are.

In line with the findings indicating significant mean score differences in content, the study

also showed that respondents' engagement and satisfaction levels were significantly

affected by the actual material presented in courses of study.

According to Thévenon (2014), the relationship between family size and policy

perceptions had been highlighted in various studies. He discussed how the number of

children can influence parental attitudes towards policies, particularly those aimed at

family welfare and support.

Similarly, studies like those discussed by Bolling et al. (2018) and others examining

policy impacts on children’s welfare, showed that while the number of children may

influence perceptions related to direct support measures, it may not significantly alter views

on broader contextual policy frameworks, explaining data did not show a significant effect

in this area.

Moreover, employment status did not significantly impact perceptions of policy

content, particularly when it involved broader workplace regulations, which tend to be

viewed similarly by both employed and unemployed groups. Research in organizational

behavior showed that content perceptions are often consistent across employment

categories unless directly tied to employment benefits.

According to Garden & Janice Fine (2020), studies indicated that employment

status can significantly affect perceptions of policy objectives, especially in areas related

to job security and welfare benefits. For instance, employed and unemployed individuals

may have divergent views on policies that impact job stability and economic support, as

outlined by studies on labor standards enforcement and employee rights.

 28

To provide additional foundation to the post hoc analysis on age groups about the

differences in the assessment of content and context among the respondents, it was

appropriate to review some theoretical underpinnings of how age affects perception and

attitude in different contexts. Zhang, Y., & Hsu, C. (2019), explored the influence of age

on the perception of educational material and contextual factors. The study revealed that

preference and expectation of educational content differ with the age of the learner,

especially the older persons. Precisely, the study showed that older participants would more

likely prefer the tools to be applied and useful to solve as many problems as possible than

the young participants who are more likely to be influenced by the aspects such as novelty.

The study also indicated that there were major disparities in how distinct age cohorts

evaluate pertinent context variables in learning contexts. The first demographic study

established that the younger generation, between the ages of 18 and 35, embraced flexible

learning and technology-based environments, whereas the senior generation, 36 years and

above, opted for structured learning environments that guide them.

Morrison & Burchinal (2020) focused on how various categories of policies

enhance or diminish single-parent families’ expectations and encounters. The authors

revealed that single parents understand the existing support policies in different ways, and

there is a significant difference in the perceived efficacy of existing policies. For instance,

policies that concern solo parents as a group in areas such as cash transfer, parenting

services and education preferences were perceived positively more than food on the table

policies for families.

Milkie and Bianchi (2014) emphasized how individuals’ views on social policies

were influenced by their family structure, pointing out that bigger families frequently faced
 29

different goals and difficulties than smaller ones. Sandefur and McLanahan (2014)

examined how different family dynamics result in different socioeconomic results and

proposed that for policies to be effective, they should be sensitive to these variations.

Theoretical Framework

The theoretical framework gives a context for comprehending the process of policy

implementation. This study uses Marilee S. Grindle’s Policy Implementation Model which

links the content and context of policies as important factors to their success. In synthesizing

the understanding on how the ordinance can better respond to the needs of solo parents in

Batangas City, the framework provides focus on the specified administrative and related

political processes with respect to the implementation of the Ordinance No. 22-36 s.2023.

Grindle illustrated the decision-making process carried out by various actors based

on the program that has been achieved or the interaction of decision makers in the

administrative political context. The characteristic of implementing this policy is the

interaction between policy makers, policy implementers, and policy users in an

interactive model. There are two variables that influence the implementation of public

policies where both of these variables can be parameters of the success of implementing a

policy. These parameters are as follows: (1) Policy process, which is to see the suitability

of policy implementation with designs that refer to the actions of their policies; and (2)

Policy Objectives Achievement, namely by looking at two factors including the impact

on society either individually or in groups and the level of change that occurs and the

acceptance of the target group and the occurring changes.

The success of policy implementation is largely determined by the level of

implementation of the policy itself which consists of Content of Policy and Context of

Policy. This model has six elements of policy content and three elements of the
 30

implementation context. The contents of the policy includes Interest Affected, Type of

Benefits, Extent of Change Envision, Site of Decision Making, Program Implementer, and

Resource Committed. While the context of policy focused on Power, Interest, and Strategy

of Actor Involved, Institution and Regime Characteristic, and Compliance and

Responsiveness.

Figure 1. Marilee S. Grindle Model Source: Grindle (1980)

In Figure 1, the policy implementation process must begin with the existence of

goals and objectives as well as programs or activities which are designed from the

beginning and also have allocated funds to realize these goals and objectives. The stages

are continued with the policy implementation stage, which refers to the contents of the

policy and the context of implementation. Several considerations in the contents of the

policy are the resources needed to achieve policy goals. In addition, the implementation

context considers the institutional roles and strategies of the actors involved. These two

components must be measured in the framework of implementing policies that achieve the

final results. The final results are in the form of the desired impact and the level of change

from the policy implementation process. This model has the advantages of the method
 31

used, namely the measurement of the success of policy implementation along with output

and outcomes.

In line with this, the implication of Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023 promoting support

for solo parents in Batangas City can be highly effective with the use of Marilee S.

Grindle’s Policy Implementation Model. It is important to note that Grindle chose both the

substance and the context of policy implementation as criteria, providing for a balanced

approach. The clear relaters of the ordinance are the goals like funding support and medical

entitlements that should correspond with the detailed content factors like the amount of

resource employed and the degree of change required. However, learner knowledge of the

‘implementation culture’ including roles and activities of the local government and

community organizations is important. By employing the Grindle’s model of

implementation, the policymakers will be able to identify problems that occur in

implementing the ordinance and thus make necessary adjustments to ensure that the desired

objectives are met thereby improving the lives of solo parents in Batangas City.

Conceptual Framework

The conceptual framework is a representation of the relationship that researchers

expected to see between variables and an understanding of how the variables in the study

were connected. It consists of the profile of respondents, their assessment of the

implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 of Solo Parents in Batangas City in the

enforcement of provisions. The process involved environmental scanning, questionnaires,

data-gathering procedures, and purposive sampling. Last was the output phase. The output

was the action taken after interpreting the result of the study. The detailed discussion and

acquired results from the study led to the proposed Information, Education, and
 32

Communication Materials (IEC) to provide information about the Ordinance No. 22-36

S.2023 of Solo Parents in Batangas City. Figure 2 offers a conceptual paradigm to help

better comprehend the study’s notion.

Figure 2. Conceptual Paradigm

Definition of terms

This section provides clear and concise definitions of key terms used in the study

to ensure a shared understanding of concepts. The definitions are tailored to the context of

the research, focusing on the implementation and impact of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023

for solo parents in Batangas City.

Content. The term refers to the substance or material contained within a

communication, document, or media, including text, images, videos, or other forms of

information (Brown, 2018). In this study, content specifically pertains to the provisions,
 33

objectives, and components of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 for solo parents in Batangas

City, as well as the communication materials developed to disseminate information about

the ordinance.

Context. The term refers to the circumstances, conditions, or settings surrounding

a particular phenomenon, event, or concept, which provide a framework for understanding

its significance and implications (Johnson, 2019). In this study, context encompasses the

socio-economic, cultural, and legislative environment in Batangas City that shapes the

implementation and effectiveness of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 for solo parents.

Implementation. The term refers to the process of putting into effect or carrying

out a plan, policy, or program as intended, involving the translation of goals and objectives

into concrete actions and activities (Pressman & Wildavsky, 1984). In this study,

implementation refers to the execution and enforcement of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023,

including the extent to which its provisions are applied and its objectives are realized

among solo parents in Batangas City.

Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023, The term refers to a legislative act passed by the

Batangas City council aimed at providing comprehensive support and empowerment to

solo parents in the city (Batangas City Council, 2023). In this study, Ordinance No. 22-36

S.2023 refers to the specific local law being assessed for its implementation effectiveness.

Policy Objectives. The term refers to specific aims and goals that a policy is

designed to achieve, often outlined in the policy documentation (Thompson, 2017). In this

study, policy objectives refer to the intended outcomes of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023,

such as providing financial assistance, access to social services, and legal protection to solo

parents.
 34

Solo Parents. The term refers to an individual who raises one or more children

without the assistance of the other biological parent, due to reasons such as divorce,

separation, death, or choice (Martinez, 2022). In this study, solo parents refer to those living

in Batangas City who are the primary caregivers for their children without the support of a

partner
 CHAPTER III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study employed a descriptive, quantitative research design to assess the

implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 among solo parents in Batangas City.

Quantitative research focuses on the systematic collection and analysis of numerical data

to quantify variables, measure relationships, and identify patterns or trends within a defined

population. This approach was deemed appropriate for the study as it allowed for the

objective assessment of the ordinance’s implementation, providing measurable insights

into the experiences and perceptions of solo parents. By using statistical tools, the study

ensured the reliability and validity of its findings, facilitating an evidence-based evaluation

of the ordinance's impact.

Respondents of the Study

The respondents in this study included solo parents residing in Batangas City. The

study found that there were 114 male and 1,193 female registered solo parents in Batangas

City, totaling 1,307 solo parents. Using the Raosoft formula, it was determined that out of

a total population of 1,307 solo parents, 298 solo parents from 105 barangays were included

in the sample size. However, one barangay declined participation, resulting in the exclusion

of four (4) potential respondents from that barangay. This brings the total number of

respondents to 294. The sampling method employed is a stratified sampling, which

involves collecting data from a representative sample of solo parents in Batangas City.

Data Gathering Instrument

A survey questionnaire was developed as the primary data collection instrument.

 36

The questionnaire was designed by the researchers to gather information that

supported the study's findings.

The questionnaire consisted of four parts: (1) respondents' profiles, (2) policy

objectives, (3) content, and (4) context. This structured format allowed for the collection

of standardized data on the implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 among solo

parents in Batangas City.

Additionally, the researchers conducted a dry run survey with 30 solo parent

respondents to gather more detailed insights on their understanding of the implementation

of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023. During these discussions, respondents were given ample

time to share their thoughts and opinions on the ordinance.

After data collection, the responses were tabulated and subjected to statistical

computation to determine the survey questionnaire’s reliability

Table 1 shows the reliability of the questionnaire.

Table 1. Reliability.
Variable Number of Items Cronbach’s Alpha
Policy Objectives 10 0.894
Content 20 0.938
Context 10 0.891
Through reliability analysis, the questionnaire demonstrated high internal

consistency across its variables. The Policy Objectives section, consisting of ten (10) items,

achieved a Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.894, indicating strong reliability. Similarly, the Content

section, with 20 items, yielded an even higher Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.938, reflecting

excellent reliability. Finally, the Context section, which included ten (10) items, recorded

a Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.891, further confirming the consistency and dependability of the

questionnaire. These results validated the reliability of the scoring and interpretation
 37

processes employed in the study.

The scoring and interpretation used for the questionnaire are presented in Table 2

Table 2. Scoring and Interpretation

Response Scale Verbal Response Mean Score

4 Strongly Agree 3.50 - 4.00
3 Agree 2.50 - 3.49
2 Disagree 1.50 - 2.49
1 Strongly Disagree 1.00 - 1.49

Table 2 presented a structured response scale for evaluating perceptions. The

first level, with a response scale of 4, corresponded to the verbal response "Strongly

Agree," which was associated with a mean score ranging from 3.50 to 4.00, a highly

positive perception. The second level, with a response scale of 3, corresponded to "Agree,"

with a mean score between 2.50 and 3.49, reflecting moderate support or agreement. The

third level, with a response scale of 2, corresponded to "Disagree," with mean scores

ranging from 1.50 to 2.49, suggesting reservations or disapproval. The final level, with a

response scale of 1, corresponded to "Strongly Disagree," with mean scores between 1.00

and 1.49 indicating strong opposition. This structured approach provided a clear framework

for analyzing respondent feedback on the implementation.

Data Gathering Procedure

The researcher obtained permission from the City Social Welfare and Development

Office – Batangas City to get the list of the total population of solo parents per barangay.

They then visited every barangay hall to get their permission to distribute the survey

questionnaires to the registered solo parents residing in their barangay. However, the

researchers encountered challenges during the data-gathering procedure because of the

distance of barangays. Additionally, some of the barangay representatives were not

 38

available and the researchers had to wait for a long time. Nonetheless, the researchers

persisted until they achieved the required sample size to establish the credibility of their

results.

Following the validation process, the researchers conducted an actual survey

involving solo parent respondents from various barangays in the City of Batangas. The

results were interpreted by a statistician, yielding a favorable percentage that indicated the

questionnaire was ready for interpretation use.

During data collection, several statistical measures were employed to record,

tabulate, and compute the results. The researchers then analyzed and interpreted the

findings to produce the study's output. The output was based on the data gathered and

aimed to provide a suitable solution to the problem at hand.

Statistical Treatment of Data

The data collected from the questionnaires were categorized, counted,

tabulated, and analyzed to determine the implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023

among solo parents in Batangas City.

The following statistical tools were employed in the study:

Frequency and Percentage. This was used to profile the respondents based

on age, sex, category, number of children, employment status, and occupation.

Weighted Mean and Composite Mean. These were used to assess the

implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 in terms of policy objectives, content, and

context.
 39

One-way Analysis of Variance. This was used to identify significant

differences in the implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 when grouped by age,

sex, category, number of children, occupation, and employment status.

Standard Deviation. This was used to measure the variability or dispersion of

responses around the mean, providing an understanding of the consistency of the

respondents' answers across various indicators.

Independent t-test. This was used to determine if there are significant

differences in the responses of the respondents when grouped by sex and employment

status.

Ethical Considerations

This study adhered to ethical research practices by emphasizing voluntary

participation through informed consent forms that clearly explained the purpose and

anonymity of the survey. The data collection instruments were designed to encourage

truthful responses by avoiding leading questions and offering answer choices that reflect

real-world situations. Confidentiality and privacy were maintained by securely storing data

and only collecting personal identifiers necessary for demographic analysis.

 CHAPTER IV

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

1. Profile of the Respondents

This section provides a detailed demographic profile of respondents, focusing on

age, sex, solo parenthood category, number of children, and employment status, to

understand the unique challenges and needs of solo parents in diverse situations.

Table 3 presents the distribution of respondents in terms of age.

Table 3. Distribution of respondents by age.

Age Frequency Percent

18-25 43 15
26-35 52 18
36-45 113 38
46-59 75 26
60 and above 11 4
Total 294 100

As shown in Table 3, age is subdivided into five (5), composed of 18-25, 26-35,

36-45, 46-49, and 60 and above. The age range of 18-25 years old had 43 respondents or

15 percent, age 26-35 years old had 52 respondents or 18 percent, age 36-45 years old had

113 respondents or 38 percent, age 46-59 years old had 75 respondents or 26 percent, and

60 and above had 11 respondents or four (4) percent.

Based on the age distribution of the respondents in this study on solo parents, the

majority were middle-aged, especially those between the ages of 36 and 45, who comprised

the largest group at 38 percent, followed by those between the ages of 46 and 59 at 26

percent. The age distribution of the study's solo parents closely matched the target group

that the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act's provisions were most likely to help. Many

solo parents can be considered to be in the prime years of balancing the pressures of their
 41

job and raising children, as the majority of them were between the ages of 36 and 59. These

middle-aged single parents who could be managing a lot of family and financial

responsibilities may find the Act's improved support, which includes more leave benefits,

flexible work schedules, and financial aid especially helpful.

The Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, which provides financial assistance,

healthcare, and educational benefits, can help younger solo parents aged 18 to 35 reduce

economic strain and provide stable homes for their children. The Act aligns with the age

profile observed in the study, with most prime working years benefiting from employment-

related protections and financial support. The Act's provisions should be enhanced to

address the varied needs of different age groups, especially for those in middle adulthood.

The needs of single parents, especially those in middle age who frequently juggle

job and family obligations, must be met by the implementation of this law. The government

acknowledges the pressing need to assist single parents in successfully raising their

children in spite of the numerous obstacles they encounter, according to Secretary Erwin

T. Tulfo of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Numerous

studies on the dynamics of families and the effects of social policies on families with one

parent lend validity to this theory. For example, research by the Philippine Institute for

Development Studies (PIDS) states that certain measures may greatly enhance the financial

security and general well-being of single parents (PIDS, 2020).

Table 4 shows the distribution of respondents according to sex.

Table 4. Distribution of respondents by sex.

Sex Frequency Percentage
Male 84 29
Female 210 71
Total 294 100
 42

As shown on Table 4, out of the 294 single parents, 210 or 71 percent are female

and 84 or 29 percent are male. This significant gender distribution implied that most

women were solo parents. Women are more likely to assume primary caregiving tasks,

especially in single-parent households, according to the statistics, which is in line with

larger social shifts. Since there are provisions intended for reducing some of the particular

difficulties faced by female single parents, the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act

becomes particularly important in this situation.

The Act gives single parents additional support by giving them access to childcare

and healthcare facilities, flexible work schedules, and more leave benefits. For women who

could experience financial difficulties and childcare responsibilities, these steps are

essential. Effectively putting these principles into practice might have significant impacts

on their wellbeing and enable them to more sustainably incorporate work and family life.

Male single parents also benefit from the Act, which acknowledges that they might have

to deal with social expectations that reduce or ignore their caregiving responsibilities. Both

sexes have equal access to benefits, financial assistance, and employment protections

because of the Act's inclusion.

Based on studies, women were more prevalent in roles such as single parenting

because of cultural norms that frequently place them in the role of primary caretaker. Smith

et al. (2021) found that single mothers often had more financial difficulties than their male

counterparts. This highlighted the necessity for supporting laws such as the Expanded Solo

Parents Welfare Act (Smith et al., 2021). The study's gender distribution showed the

importance of the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act in assisting female single parents

and making sure that male single parents likewise get the help they need. This alignment
 43

highlighted how crucial the Act was to giving all single parents in the Philippines access

to a thorough and welcoming support network.

Table 5 shows the distribution of respondents in terms of their category as solo

parents.

Table 5. Distribution of respondents by category.

Category Frequency Percentage
A1 9 3
A2 86 29
A3 24 8
A4 6 2
A5 21 7
A6 12 4
A7 136 46
Total 294 100

As shown on Table 5, 136 or 46 percent were classified as Category A7. Category

A2, with 86 respondents or 29 percent, followed. Respondents in other categories were

noticeably lesser. A3 had 24 respondents or 8 percent, A5 had 21 respondents or 7 percent,

A6 had 12 respondents or 4 percent, A1 had 9 respondents or 3 percent, and A4 had the

lowest proportion with 6 respondents or 2 percent.

Solo parents face diverse and often challenging circumstances, which can be

categorized to better understand their unique experiences. Category A1 includes solo

parents who gave birth as a result of rape, facing not only the challenges of single parenting

but also the trauma and societal stigma associated with their circumstances. Category A2

encompasses those who became solo parents due to the death of a spouse, often dealing

with grief, financial strain, and the emotional burden of sole caregiving. Category A3 refers

to individuals whose spouse has been detained for at least three months, leaving them to

manage parenting responsibilities alone while coping with stigma and financial insecurity.

Category A4 includes those whose spouses are mentally or physically incapacitated,

 44

placing the dual burden of caregiving for the incapacitated spouse and raising children on

their shoulders.

In Category A5, solo parents became such due to legal separation or informal de

facto separation, navigating co-parenting challenges, emotional distress, and potential

financial instability. Category A6 pertains to those whose marriages were annulled or

declared null, often facing societal judgment and the complexities of starting over as a

single parent.

Abandonment as a means to single parenting is referred to within Category A7.

According to the results, most of the single parents had become parents on their own after

experiencing relationship abandonment. Research by López (2022) found that single

parents who are abandoned frequently deal with serious emotional and financial

difficulties, which might affect their general wellbeing and ability to parent (López, 2022).

For those in Category A7, the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act's provisions may

be especially helpful. The Act seeks to enhance the general well-being of abandoned single

parents by addressing the particular difficulties they encounter, such as offering more leave

benefits and flexible work schedules. The loneliness that abandoned single parents

frequently experience may be lessened by putting in place community-based initiatives that

emphasize social integration and support systems. These initiatives could encourage

relationships amongst single parents dealing with comparable difficulties.

The Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act aims to address unique challenges faced

by solo parents, including abandonment, through tailored support services like legal

assistance, mental health resources, educational benefits, and flexible work arrangements.

By recognizing the diverse experiences of solo parents across these categories,

 45

policymakers can ensure the Act effectively meets the needs of all single-parent

households, enhancing their well-being and stability.

A significant improvement in social welfare policy targeted at enhancing the lives

of solo parents in the Philippines comprises the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act. This

law aims to empower single parents in a number of ways by offering all-encompassing

assistance that includes social services, healthcare benefits, financial help, and educational

chances.

Table 6 presents the distribution of respondents in terms of number of children.

Table 6. Distribution of respondents by number of children.

Number of Children Frequency Percentage
1 to 3 196 67
4 to 6 87 30
More than 6 11 4
Total 294 100

As shown on Table 6, the majority of single parents in the research, with 196 of

respondents or 67 percent had 1 to 3 children. With the lowest respondents, 11 or 4 percent

have more than 6 children, although quite a few 87 respondents or 30 percent have 4 to 6

children. With the majority of respondents leaning towards fewer children, this distribution

indicated that although bigger family sizes were possible, they were far less prevalent. This

might be due to cultural, societal, or economic variables that influence family planning

among single parents.

According to the findings, the majority of single parents in the survey typically had

fewer kids, which reflected a practical approach to family size that took into account social

and financial resources. This was consistent with the research by López (2022), who

observed that single parents frequently chose the number of their families carefully in order

to effectively handle their limited financial resources. This fact was supported by the
 46

Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, which emphasizes financial aid, education, and

flexible work schedules all of which are essential for assisting single parents in giving their

kids, regardless of family size, a secure home environment.

The social and financial difficulties that single parents of all family sizes encounter

are addressed under the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act. Garcia & Reyes (2023)

pointed out that the Act's provisions are intended to accommodate both the minority with

bigger families and the majority with fewer children, guaranteeing that all single parents

get the help they need to succeed. While staying flexible to help single parents across all

classifications, the Act guarantees that the majority of single parents receive significant

assistance by matching resources with the most common categories.

Table 7 shows the distribution of respondents in terms of employment status.

Table 7. Distribution of respondents by employment status.

Employment Status Frequency Percentage
Employed 198 67
Unemployed 96 33
Total 294 100
As shown on Table 7, a significant percentage of single parents with 96 respondents

or 33 percent were unemployed, while the majority, with 198 respondents or 67 percent

were employed. According to this distribution, the majority of single parents are able to

provide for their family by working, which may indicate a high desire for financial security.

The portion without employment, however, could have to deal with extra financial and

social difficulties and might have to rely on government assistance or other sources of

income. The common occupations of solo parents included roles such as vendors, barangay

officials, barangay staff, healthcare workers, construction workers, and business owners.

These jobs provide various opportunities for income and, in some cases, offer the flexibility

needed to balance work and parenting responsibilities.

 47

The Solo Parents' Welfare Act's provisions are intended to assist single parents who

are working as well as those who are not. Benefits like maternity leave and flexible work

schedules are crucial for working parents to balance their childcare requirements and work

obligations (Martinez, 2023). By lowering work-family friction, these clauses enable

parents to more successfully balance their duties as parents and professionals. Through

financial aid, livelihood training, and benefits for their children's education, the Act offers

essential help to families without jobs. Such policies can enable jobless single parents to

better their financial circumstances and increase their employability through skill

development, as stated by Johnson (2020).

The Solo Parents' Welfare Act is essential to maintaining family stability since it

addresses the diverse demands of single parents with varying employment circumstances.

By guaranteeing that their careers can satisfy their children's emotional and financial needs,

comprehensive support systems greatly enhance outcomes for kids in single-parent

families, according to research by Smith et al. (2021).

2. Assessment on Implementation Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 of Solo Parents in

Batangas City

Table 8 presents the assessment of the respondents on Policy Objectives. From the

perspective of policy implementation theories, goals matter in influencing policy

implementation because they are precise and coherent (Matland, 2014).

The policy objectives for the Expanded Solo Parents Act based on the responses

elicited with a composite mean score of 3.37 and a standard deviation of 0.42. Hence this

provides a good overall and positive score on how the respondents welcome the

implementation of the ordinance and direction of its goals. The low standard deviation of
 48

the data is due to the fact that there are not many divergent views held across the

participants.

Table 8. Respondents’ Assessment on Policy Objectives

Indicators Mean Std. dev. Verbal Interpretation
1. Promotes just and fair implementation of the 3.37 0.60 Strongly Agree
Expanded Solo Parents Act
2. Promotes social justice in all phases of national 3.38 0.60 Strongly Agree
development, values the dignity of every human
person, and guarantees full respect for human rights.
3. Promotes and develops existing programs and 3.34 0.61 Strongly Agree
expands the other initiatives and programs for the
fulfillment of its objectives.
4. Ensure a strong and free country, the government 3.37 0.62 Strongly Agree
should help reduce poverty by providing good
services, and improving people's quality of life.
5. Promotes a just and dynamic social order that 3.34 0.67 Strongly Agree
ensures the prosperity and independence of the city
and free people from poverty.
6. Addresses any disparities or inequalities faced by 3.33 0.62 Strongly Agree
solo parents, recognizing their unique challenges in
raising children alone.
7. Encourages more support and resources to 3.46 0.61 Strongly Agree
enhance the implementation of ordinance
8. Provides financial assistance, social services, 3.40 0.62 Strongly Agree
legal aid, employment, education, mental health
support, and social integration
9. Supports the natural and primary rights and duties 3.36 0.66 Strongly Agree
of solo parents in rearing their children.
10. Institutionalizes the programs, services, 3.38 0.63 Strongly Agree
privileges, and benefits for Solo Parents.
Composite 3.37 0.42 Strongly Agree

With mean values ranging from 3.33 to 3.46, each individual indicator was rated

positively and classified as "Strongly Agree," demonstrating confidence in the Act's

capacity to successfully satisfied respondents' demands. This suggested broad agreement

on the Act's ability to effectively address family issues. As stated by Dr. Baluyot (2023), it

confirms the positive impacts of legislative bills of the kind like this Act to the single-

parent families indicating that the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act enhances the

economic and psychological welfare of the family.

 49

The highest-scoring indicator with a mean score of 3.46 showed encouragement of

more support and resources to enhance implementation, reflecting the belief that additional

resources are crucial for effective policy execution. Additionally, with a mean score of

3.40, the provision of essential services such as health support, education, and social

assistance also ranked highly, emphasizing their importance in providing overall support

for solo parents.

Other indicators, such as promoting social justice in national development with the

mean score of 3.38 and ensuring a strong and dynamic local economy with a mean of 3.37,

received strong positive ratings as well, suggesting that respondents value the alignment of

local economic initiatives with social welfare objectives. With a mean score of 3.33, the

lowest-rated indicator still reflected strong agreement, focusing on efforts to address

disparities faced by solo parents. This suggested that, despite recognition of the issue, more

work was needed to effectively tackle these challenges.

Overall, the assessment indicated a positive reception of the policy objectives, with

respondents feeling that the goals were aligned with the needs of solo parents. Continuous

enhancements focusing on resources and addressing inequalities can be recommended to

further strengthen the policies’ effectiveness.

According to Natividad and San Mateo (2020), job insecurity impacts single

parents' ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It connects to the results’ emphasis

on resource allocation and support, suggesting that policies aimed at improving job security

and providing flexible work arrangements can alleviate stress for solo parents, thus

enhancing their overall quality of life.

 50

Table 9 presents the assessment of the respondents on Policy Content. The

ordinance content contains certain provisions and services aiming at mitigating the needs

of the solo parents. In this case, policy content also plays a significant role because an

effective policy should cater for needs and conditions of the target population (Pressman

& Wildavsky, 2014)

It shows the respondents’ evaluation of the content of the Expanded Solo Parents

Act received a composite mean score of 3.28, with a standard deviation of 0.46, showing a

strong level of agreement towards the ordinances. Showing a mean score of 3.48, the clear

explanation of the government’s duties indicated a strong understanding and appreciation

of the support available, while the provisions for flexible work schedules, with a mean of

3.36, further emphasized this positive reception. Based on the Department of Social

Welfare and Development (2022) it is committed to maximizing the impact of the

Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act through coordinated efforts with other government

agencies. One of the key points is that the support programs are evaluated and monitored

constantly to assess whether they are filling solo parents’ needs.

Table 9. Respondents Assessment on Content

Std. Verbal
Indicators Mean
dev. Interpretation
1. Contains a clear explanation of the duties and responsibilities 3.48 0.62 Strongly Agree
that the government has towards programs and projects that
benefit solo parents.
2. Contains provisions for flexible work schedules for solo parents 3.36 0.65 Strongly Agree
that help address his/her family needs.
3. Provides clear indicators of the category by which a solo parent 3.41 0.65 Strongly Agree
belongs to so that appropriate actions will be given depending
on their need.
4. Explains in detail the privileges and benefits given to solo 3.34 0.71 Strongly Agree
parents like death benefit, scholarship assistance, livelihood
assistance, and among others.
5. Includes a parental leave entitlement of seven working days for 3.28 0.69 Strongly Agree
solo parents.
6. Prevent work discrimination against solo parents based on the 3.27 0.70 Strongly Agree
provision that prohibits employers from terminating or refusing
to hire applicants based solely on their status as a solo parent.
 51

Table 9. (Continued)
7. Cater additional benefits, such as training programs and 3.29 0.71 Strongly Agree
medical assistance, that are valuable for solo parents and their
children.
8. Includes the implementation of a Barangay Solo Parent 3.00 0.93 Agree
Assistance Desk to improve support for solo parents.
9. Provides specific provisions such as access to training 3.06 0.91 Agree
programs, medical assistance, and the establishment of a
Barangay Solo Parent Assistance Desk, which effectively
supports the rights and needs of solo parents in Batangas.
10. States that a solo parent must inform the CSWDO of their 3.30 1.96 Strongly Agree
intention to withdraw from the benefits under RA 11861.
11. Specifies that if a solo parent does not voluntarily express their 3.37 1.89 Strongly Agree
intention to terminate benefits and services within one year of
receiving their solo parent ID, a social worker will conduct an
assessment to determine if grounds for termination exist.
12. Indicates that the solo parent is informed of the assessment and 3.30 0.63 Strongly Agree
evaluation results, as well as the termination of services,
through written notice that takes effect 30 days after receipt.
13. States that the solo parent and their children are required to 3.00 0.96 Agree
undergo psychosocial counseling with a social worker to
prepare for independent living.
14. Specifies that the City/Municipal Social Welfare Office 3.12 0.86 Agree
assesses the feasibility of assigning a social worker to monitor
the status of the relocated solo parent and their family.
15. States that a parent claiming benefits will terminate their 3.35 0.64 Strongly Agree
eligibility if they are no longer solely responsible for
parenthood.
16. Clarifies that proof of membership and entitlement must be 3.39 0.64 Strongly Agree
supported by the Solo Parent ID card to access the benefits of
the ordinance.
17. Specifies that the City Social Welfare and Development Office 3.12 0.90 Agree
will conduct a city-wide registration of all solo parents and their
children across 105 barangays in Batangas City.

18. Indicates that the evaluation of the needs of the applicant and 3.41 0.64 Strongly Agree
their children is a key part of the assessment for providing
appropriate services and interventions.
19. Requires that the applicant must be a resident of Batangas City, 3.40 0.69 Strongly Agree
as certified by the Barangay Captain and supported by the
Voter’s Registration Record.
20. States that the applicant must have an income level that is equal 3.35 0.70 Strongly Agree
to or below the poverty threshold established by the NSCB and
evaluated by the CSWDO.
Composite 3.28 0.46 Strongly Agree

The mean score of 3.34 reflected respondents' positive views regarding specific

privileges and benefits, while the protective measures against workplace discrimination

received a mean of 3.27. However, some areas, such as the entitlement to parental leave,
 52

which received a mean of 3.28, and additional benefits like training and medical assistance,

having a mean of 3.29, showed lower scores, highlighting potential gaps that could be

addressed to further enhance support for solo parents.

Overall, the ordinance was deemed successful in addressing many needs of solo

parents, and there could still be an opportunity for further enhancement, particularly in

strengthening parental leave policies and expanding additional benefits. By implementing

regular evaluations and adjustments, the ordinance can continue to effectively serve the

interests of solo parents and adapt to their evolving needs.

Smith & Garcia (2021) found that supportive policies, such as flexible work

schedules and parental leave, significantly enhance the well-being of solo parents. Their

findings indicated that when policies are well-implemented, they lead to improved job

satisfaction and emotional well-being among single parents, aligning with the positive

reception noted in the evaluation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S. 2023.

There was also a study from Martinez & Chen (2019) highlighting the importance

of flexible work arrangements in promoting work-life balance for solo parents. They found

that such provisions lead to a more positive perception of workplace policies among single

parents, supporting the findings of a mean score of 3.36 for flexible work schedules in the

ordinance evaluation.

Nguyen & Torres (2023) found that comprehensive support measures, including

training and medical assistance, are critical for the empowerment of solo parents. They

noted that low access to these additional benefits can hinder the overall effectiveness of

support policies, reflecting the lower mean scores of 2.39 for training and medical

assistance in the ordinance evaluation.

 53

Table 10 shows the respondents’ assessment of Policy Context. This shows that the

context in which the ordinance is implemented is very important and determines the

success of the measure. Determinants include the socio-economic setting, cultural

acceptance of single parenthood, and availability of service structures (Sabatier &

Mazmanian, 2014).

Table 10. Respondents Assessment on Context

Std. Verbal
Indicators Mean
dev. Interpretation
1. The increasing number of solo parents in the Philippines, comprising 3.59 0.65 Strongly Agree
about 14-15 percent of the population, has led to concerns over
poverty and limited access to education for their children. Rainbows
and Butterflies (2015)
2. Solo parents face significant challenges, including societal stigma and 3.59 0.62 Strongly Agree
financial struggles, which adversely affect their children. Martinez
(2022)
3. Solo parents rely on strong faith, support from family and community, 3.50 0.58 Strongly Agree
and stable employment to navigate their challenges. Ramos and Tus
(2020)
4. The Philippine government lacks systems to differentiate between 2.75 0.96 Agree
single-parent and two-parent families, which leads to inadequate
support for single-parent households, especially during calamities.
Collado and Arpon (2021)
5. The Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act has significantly improved 3.26 0.85 Strongly Agree
the socio-economic conditions of single-parent households by easing
access to financial aid, education, and social services, thereby
enhancing their overall resilience. (Legarde, 2023)
6. The experiences of solo parents reveal challenges related to their 3.46 0.65 Strongly Agree
awareness and understanding of available benefits. Highlighting the
need for better communication and support systems for solo parents,
(Redoña, 2023)

7. The Philippines is known for its strong family ties, where Filipinos 3.53 0.56 Strongly Agree
prioritize caring for their loved ones and maintaining family unity,
which shapes societal values and identity (Goyala, 2019).
8. Solo parents with contractual job status often struggle with work-life 3.54 0.66 Strongly Agree
balance, working longer hours to make up for a lack of benefits, which
can lead to stress and burnout for both themselves and their children
(Mortelmans et al. (2019)
9. The need for increased financial resources and shared parental 3.60 0.55 Strongly Agree
responsibility for children in single-parent households, emphasizing
the importance of livelihood development and employment
opportunities for solo parents. (Cancian and Meyer (2018)
10. Solo parenting presents unique challenges, as individuals often must 3.66 0.54 Strongly Agree
manage the full responsibility of raising children without the support
of a partner, regardless of their circumstances, such as separation or
loss (Garner and Paterson, 2014; Zartler, 2014).
Composite 3.45 0.40 Strongly Agree
 54

Table 10 showed the respondents' assessments on the circumstances surrounding

single parenting. With a standard deviation of 0.40 and an overall composite mean of 3.45,

the respondents strongly agreed on the complex difficulties experienced by single parents.

These results showed that, in order to solve the particular challenges encountered by single-

parent homes, structural adjustments, more social support, and easier access to resources

are all necessary. According to Santos and Dizon (2023), these benefits help to solve the

economic problems related to solo parents and give thee life of inclusion. It also requires

employers to provide solo parents reasonable schedules so that they could solve parenting

problems and work problems at the same time. The following introduces the legislative

measure for solitary mothers and emphasizes the need for structural changes towards

improvement of living standards for solo-parent families.

Given the high mean ratings for financial and parental duties, socioeconomic and

educational problems, and social and financial struggles, the data indicated that single

parenting poses particular difficulties. coping mechanisms like work, family, and religion

are essential for overcoming these obstacles. Filipino cultural values are helpful, but there

are clear job difficulties. With a mean score of 3.26, legislative effect was acknowledged,

indicating the advantages of the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act. With a 3.46

awareness of advantages score, there was a need for improved communication. The largest

needs for improvement were highlighted by the government assistance gaps, with the

lowest mean score of 2.75. Strong agreement with the many difficulties experienced by

single parents was indicated by the overall composite mean of 3.45.

A positive assessment often reflected strong consensus among respondents about

the effectiveness or appropriateness of the context. This could mean that individuals feel
 55

supported and valued within their environment. The respondents clearly perceived the

crucial societal, economical, and emotional challenges experienced by solo parents. The

effects of social isolation and discrimination witnessed by solo parents add to the feelings

of worthlessness and stress. Thus, according to research, the position of society influences

single parents’ quality of life and often adds more emotional loads (Murray, 2014).

Equally established from the assessment was the perceived lack of support by the

government particularly being reflected in a lower mean of 2.75 on the indicator of the

government’s no proper systems for single parents. Thus, in spite of the fact that the given

score still remained rather high ranking within the ‘Agree’ category, the respondents

seemed to think that getting government help could provide more specific support to the

solo parents in emergencies. As for RA 11861, or the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act,

this had scored a mean of 3.26 for respondents who accepted its recognition as a policy

advancement for the improved support given to these families; however, the respondents

also suggested that there was a capacity for additional policy developments to address their

socio-economic needs more efficiently than at present.

3. Differences on the Responses when Grouped According to Profile

Table 11 presents the differences in the responses of the respondents when grouped

according to age.

It shows how different age groups assessed factors, namely Policy Objectives,

Content, and Context. It included age groups of 18-25, 26-35, 36-45, 46-55, and 60 and

above, with the mean column denoting the average scores for each factor across these

groups. The computed F-value represented the statistics used to determine significance

through ANOVA (Analysis of Variance), while the p-value indicated the probability that
 56

the observed results were due to chance; a lower p-value suggested statistical significance.

Based on the p-value, a decision was made to either reject or fail to reject the null

hypothesis, which typically stated that there is no effect or difference. Specifically, for

Policy Objectives, the p-value of 0.061 led to a decision to fail to reject, indicating that

there was not enough evidence to suggest a difference in assessment across age groups. In

contrast, the Content factor had a p-value of 0.01, resulting in a significant finding that

indicated meaningful differences in ratings among age groups. Similarly, the Context factor

showed a p-value of 0.005, suggesting that assessment of context also varied significantly

among different ages.

Table 11. Differences on Respondents’ Response When Grouped according to age.

Assessment Age Mean Computed t- p-value Decision Interpretation
Factor value on Ho
18-25 3.37
26-35 3.51
36-45 3.52 Failed to
Policy Objective 2.278 0.061 Not Significant
45-59 3.39 Reject
60 and 3.19
above
18-25 3.33
26-35 3.47
36-45 3.24
Content 3.365 0.01 Reject Significant
45-59 3.20
60 and 3.13
above
18-25 3.58
26-35 3.56
36-45 3.36
Context 3.81 0.005 Reject Significant
45-59 3.43
60 and 3.45
above

The analysis showed the assessment of policy objectives, content, and context by

respondents aged 18-25, 26-35, 36-45, 46-59, and 60 and above. The mean scores for

policy objectives showed minor variances, indicating that assessment of policy objectives
 57

did not differ significantly across generations. Middle-aged groups may demonstrate

slightly higher levels of participation due to their active responsibilities in society and the

family.

Content analysis revealed mean scores ranging from 3.13 (60 and above) to 3.47

(26-35), with young age groups giving more assessments due to its accessibility and

consistency with innovative, contemporary solutions. Older groups may favor standard and

realistic methods, leading to lower evaluations.

Context received higher ratings from younger respondents, who likely valued

inclusion, creativity, and flexibility in the face of modern difficulties. However, older

respondents (36 and above) might place greater emphasis on historical precedents,

dependability, and consistency with existing frameworks. This demonstrated that older

generations placed more emphasis on stability and long-term relevance, while younger

generations typically evaluated policy environments through the lens of contemporary

societal issues.

In conclusion, while views of Policy Objectives were not significantly impacted by

age, assessments of Content and Context varied according to generational priorities.

Policymakers must consider these differences by altering content to appeal to younger

audiences' desire for innovation while ensuring context satisfies older demographics'

emphasis on tradition and dependability. This strategy could improve programs'

effectiveness and acceptability among a range of age groups.

According to Jeste et al., (2015), age-related differences in cognition and social

perception can significantly impact how individuals evaluate policy objectives and

implementation. Their research highlighted that older adults may prioritize social welfare
 58

and security in policy discussions, reflecting their life experiences and concerns about

stability and health. Conversely, younger age groups often focused on innovation and

progress, which may lead to differing evaluations of policy content and context (Jeste et

al., 2015).

A study by Tate et al., (2019) emphasized that generational divides in values shape

how various content types are received. Younger individuals, with a greater proclivity

towards digital engagement, may react more favorably to contemporary policies that utilize

technology and social media, while older adults might prefer traditional communication

methods and policies grounded in established practices. This divergence in perception can

influence both the acceptance and effectiveness of policy initiatives.

Moreover, research by McGregor et al., (2021) showed that perceptions of context

in policy evaluation also vary significantly across age groups. Their findings suggested that

older adults often interpret the context of policy within a framework of historical

precedents and past experiences, impacting their assessment of current policy relevance.

In contrast, younger individuals are more likely to assess context through the lens of

contemporary societal challenges, such as climate change and inequality, leading to

differing evaluations of the same policy.

Table 12 presents the differences in the responses of the respondents when grouped

according to sex.

It shows the analysis how different sex groups assessed various factors, namely

policy objectives, content, and context. The policy objective revealed a mean score with a

t-value of -1.191 and a p-value of 0.234. These results indicated insufficient evidence to

reject the null hypothesis, suggesting that sex did not significantly influence perceptions of
 59

policy objectives. Regarding Content, the mean score yielded a t-value of -2.749 and a p-

value of 0.006. This provided strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis, indicating that

sex had a statistically significant effect on assessment of content. For Context, the mean

score indicated a t-value of -2.05 and a p-value of 0.041. These results also supported the

rejection of the null hypothesis, demonstrating that sex significantly influenced assessment

of context.

Table 12. Differences on Respondents’ Response When Grouped according to sex.

Assessment Sex Mean Computed p-value Decision Interpretation
factor t-value on Ho
Policy Male 3.33 Failed
objective Female 3.39 -1.191 0.234 to Not Significant
Reject
Content Male 3.16
-2.749 0.006 Reject Significant
Female 3.33
Context Male 3.37
Female 3.48 -2.05 0.041 Reject Significant
Female 3.48
The study examined how gender affected policy assessments. The mean scores for

Policy Objectives were 3.33 for men and 3.39 for women, indicating agreement between

the two sexes. The content scores were 3.16 for men and 3.33 for women, with a significant

difference between the two genders. Women's higher ratings suggested a more favorable

opinion of the policy's substance, valuing comprehensiveness, clarity, and suitability for

their needs. Men's smaller scores may reflect a preference for policy information that takes

a more direct or practical approach.

Context scores were 3.37 for men and 3.48 for women, indicating a more positive

view of the policy setting. Women are more sensitive to relational and communal elements,

making the policy environment more relevant and inclusive. Males may place more

emphasis on outcome-oriented or structural elements, resulting in lower assessments.

 60

In conclusion, while men and women have similar assessments of the Policy

Objectives, there were significant differences between their evaluations of Content and

Context. Women often provide higher ratings, reflecting their value for social dynamics,

diversity, and clarity in policies. These variations underscored the importance of

considering gender viewpoints when developing policies. Officials should ensure that the

context and material of their policies are inclusive and cover a range of issues to effectively

connect with both genders.

According to Eagly et al., (2000) Social role theory explores how gender roles and

stereotypes shape perceptions in different contexts. According to this theory, societal

expectations of men and women lead to differences in how they are perceived in various

roles, including policy-related ones. For instance, women are often seen as more communal

(caring and supportive), while men are perceived as more agentic (assertive and task-

oriented). These perceptions can influence how policy content and context are evaluated

based on the gender of the respondents or those involved in policy-making (Oxford

Research Encyclopedia)

Moreover, studies like those by Dyck et al., (2018) looked into gender differences

in political trust and policy support. They found that gender can play a role in shaping how

policies are received, with women often displaying different levels of trust in government

initiatives compared to men. This can affect perceptions of policy objectives and their

effectiveness.

Table 13 presents the differences in the responses of the respondents when grouped

according to category.
 61

Table 13. Differences on Respondents’ Response When Grouped according to category.

Assessment Computed Decision
Category Mean p-value Interpretation
Factor t-value on Ho
Policy A1 3.28
Objectives
A2 3.45
A3 3.10
A4 3.02 3.412 0.003 Reject Significant
A5 3.41
A6 3.57
A7 3.37
Content A1 3.40
A2 3.36
A3 3.10
A4 2.89 2.586 0.019 Reject Significant
A5 3.09
A6 3.25
A7 3.30
Context A1 3.43
A2 3.41
A3 3.35
Failed to
A4 3.58 1.032 0.404 Not Significant
Reject
A5 3.35
A6 3.48
A7 3.49

Table 13 evaluates how different Category groups assessed various factors, namely

Policy Objectives, Content, and Context. The findings revealed that the mean scores for

Policy Objectives range from 3.02 to 3.57, with an overall significant computed t-value of

3.412 and a p-value of 0.003, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis and indicating

a significant difference. In the Content category, the mean scores varied, with a significant

t-value of 2.586 and a p-value of 0.019, resulting in a rejection of the null hypothesis as

well. Conversely, the Context category showed a computed t-value of 1.032 with a p-value

of 0.404, leading to a failure to reject the null hypothesis, indicating no significant

difference.
 62

It was helpful to provide studies that demonstrated how demographic

characteristics affected answers and perceptions in comparable situations in order to bolster

the conclusions about variations in respondents' perceptions categorized by category.

Harris & Jones (2018) analyzed how various demographic groups determine the policy

environment as well as content. According to the study, respondents from different

demographic backgrounds usually have very different opinions on how effective policies

are. The mean scores showed that accessibility and estimated effectiveness depended

significantly from how clear and relevant the policy objectives are. In line with the findings

indicating significant mean score differences in content, the study also showed that

respondents' engagement and satisfaction levels were significantly affected by the actual

material presented in courses of study.

The analysis showed the significant differences of Policy Objectives, Content and

Context according to the category groups of respondents from A1 to A7. The results

demonstrated highly significant differences in the assessment of policy objectives and

content, for example, where categories such as A6 stated the policy objectives as more

relevant or clear, while others such as A4 may find the objectives irrelevant or quite

different from what they expected. This variation may have resulted from the disparity in

the experiences, roles or tasks associated with each category group.

Content scores also varied by category group. This meant that while for some

categories such as A1, the content may be seen as more relevant, detailed, or appropriate

to their situation, for other categories such as A4, the content may be considered too

general, too much detail, or not what they need. These differences indicated that the policy
 63

contents’ outcomes depended on how much the policies’ content addresses each of the

groups’ particular concerns.

Perceptions with regards to context seemed to be fairly homogeneous across all the

categories tested, and, hence, can be presumed that this aspect may be well understood or

accepted globally with regards to the policy in place. The results presented strongly

supported the view that policy aims and their contents must reflect the gaps in needs,

concerns, and expectations of particular demographic subgroups.

There were some policy implications for policymakers: The government, policy

makers should pay more attention on adapting the type and content of the goals to appeal

more to the low-scoring group like A4, with better figures, language or relevance of

contents to them. The consistency in perceiving context showed that framing of policies

was indeed broad and inclusive; hence, there could be a potential in enhancing

communication of policies. This way, policymakers can develop policy solutions that are

fair for all category groups and, therefore, would be more efficient in achieving their goals.

Table 14 presents the differences in the responses of the respondents when grouped

according to Number of Children.

It shows that analysis of the policy objectives revealed a mean score with a t-value

of 7.258 and a p-value of 0.001. These results indicated sufficient evidence to reject the

null hypothesis, suggesting that the number of children significantly influences assessment

of policy objectives. Regarding Content, the mean score yielded a t-value of 8.943 and a

p-value of 0.000. This provided robust evidence to reject the null hypothesis, indicating

that the number of children has a statistically significant effect on assessment of content.

For Context, the mean score indicated a t-value of 1.63 and a p-value of 0.198. These results
 64

suggest insufficient evidence to reject the null hypothesis, demonstrating that the number

of children does not significantly influence assessment of context.

Table 14. Differences on Respondents’ Response When Grouped according to

Number of Children.
Assessment Number of Computed t- Decision
Mean p-value Interpretation
Factor Children value on Ho

1 to 3 3.43
Policy 4 to 6 3.29 7.258 0.001 Reject Significant
Objectives
More than 6 3.03
1 to 3 3.36
Content 4 to 6 3.14 8,943 0.000 Reject Significant
More than 6 3.03
1 to 3 3.47
4 to 6 3.49 Failed to
Context 1.63 0.198 Not Significant
Reject
More than 6 3.53

Analyzing the data in table 14, it can be seen that the Policy Objective, Content,

and Context differed depending on the number of children they have. The mean scores for

the Policy Objectives ranged from 3.03 (policy objectives related to more than 6 children)

to 3.43 (policy objectives related to 1-3 children). On the other hand, respondents with

more than six children gave lower responses which might be due to thinking that policy

objectives did not suit the problems of their large families, financial problems, and

children’s education or health care issues.

For Content, the mean scores varied between 3.03 (more than 6 children) and 3.36

(1-3 children). The last subsample can be considered as perceiving the Content as more

advantageous since it was more likely easier for them to understand it as clear, actionable

and adequate in detail. Nevertheless, larger families assigned significantly lower ratings

and suggested that the Content was not specific, informative, or applicable to their

situations. These findings may imply that policy contents may not necessarily cater the
 65

needs of families with more children since the demands that come along with taking care

of many children may be demanding and require special remedies or interventions.

Descriptive statistics revealed that context scores were relatively similar across the

groups and ranged from 18.58 to 18.76, which implied that the policies’ framing, relevance,

and situational factors were valid and recognized by participants irrespective of their family

size. Policy makers should be more sensitive to the characteristics of such families while

coming up with policy statements or messages to be disseminated to the public. For

instance, the policies of targeted financial assistance, education, or health care measures

could make a stronger impression on large families with over six children. It remains

equally beneficial to continue keeping Context in status quo as this is conceivably

acceptably before all families of all sizes; specific requirements would be met with

Objective and contents.

According to Thévenon (2014), the relationship between family size and policy

perceptions had been highlighted in various studies. He discussed how the number of

children can influence parental attitudes towards policies, particularly those aimed at

family welfare and support. This aligned with the finding that the number of children

significantly affected assessment of policy objectives, as larger families may have a vested

interest in policies that directly impact their financial and social well-being.

Similarly, when it comes to context, studies like those discussed by Bolling et al.

(2018) and others examining policy impacts on children’s welfare, showed that while the

number of children may influence perceptions related to direct support measures, it may

not significantly alter views on broader contextual policy frameworks, explaining why the

data did not show a significant difference in this area.

 66

Table 15 presents the differences in the responses of the respondents when grouped

according to Employment status.

Table 15. Differences on Respondents’ Response When Grouped according to

Employment Status.
Assessment Employment Mean Computed p- Decision Interpretation
Factor Status t-value value on Ho
Policy Employed 3.41 2.149 0.032 Reject Significant
Objectives Unemployed 3.30
Content Employed 3.29 0.589 0.556 Failed to Not Significant
Unemployed 3.26 reject
Context Employed 3.49 2.803 0.005 Reject Significant
Unemployed 3.36

Table 15 shows that analysis of the Policy Objectives revealed a mean score with a

t-value of 2.149 and a p-value of 0.032. These results indicated sufficient evidence to reject

the null hypothesis, suggesting that employment status significantly influences assessment

of policy objectives. Regarding Content, the mean score yielded a t-value of 0.589 and a

p-value of 0.556. This indicated insufficient evidence to reject the null hypothesis,

demonstrating that employment status does not significantly affect assessment of content.

For Context, the mean score indicated a t-value of 2.803 and a p-value of 0.005. These

results provided robust evidence to reject the null hypothesis, showing that employment

status significantly influences assessment of context.

The analysis demonstrated that employment status had an impact on the assessment

of Policy Objectives, Content and Context since the employed displayed higher values.

This may be due to the fact that the objectives and context of the policies were more

applicable to working individuals, while the unemployed believed otherwise.

Regarding Context, employed respondents gave higher scores to Context possibly

because they deemed policies as better aligned with their professional or economic

environments. In contrast, unemployed respondents may not find the contextual framing
 67

of policies to be as useful for them as a policy providing employment insurance or

retraining assistance.

Therefore, it was clear that employment status had a potential impact on Policy

Objectives and Context, as employed participants tended to rate them higher. In response

to these gaps, policy makers should develop programs that cater for the unemployed

population through measures that create jobs and provide training while at the same time

retaining the relevance of employed people. The need to increase the level of compatibility

for the unemployed respondents should be done to improve the perceived policy relevance

thereby promoting policy equity.

According to Garden & Fine (2020) employment status can significantly affect

assessment of policy objectives, especially in areas related to job security and welfare

benefits. For instance, employed and unemployed individuals may have divergent views

on policies that impact job stability and economic support, as outlined by studies on labor

standards enforcement and employee rights.

Moreover, according to Bolling et al., (2018), employment status does not

significantly impact assessment of policy content, particularly when it involves broader

workplace regulations, which tend to be viewed similarly by both employed and

unemployed groups. Research in organizational behavior showed that content perceptions

are often consistent across employment categories unless directly tied to employment

benefits.

Table 16 presents the Post Hoc analysis according to age.

It shows variations in the respondents' assessments of content and context, with

significant differences primarily observed between younger and older age groups. For
 68

content, significant differences were noted between the 26-35 age group and older age

groups, specifically 36-45 (mean difference = 0.22527, p = 0.003), 46-59 (mean difference

= 0.26531, p = 0.001), and 60 and above (mean difference = 0.33549, p = 0.027). This

suggested that as age increased beyond 36, respondents’ assessments of content become

noticeably different from those in the 26-35 age group. However, no significant differences

were found between the 26-35 and 18-25 age groups (mean difference = 0.14, p = 0.138),

indicating similar perceptions within these younger age brackets.

Table 16. Post Hoc Analysis of Age.

Assessment Age Mean p- Interpretation
Factor Difference value
Content 26-35 18-25 0.14 0.138 Not Significant
36-45 0.22527* 0.003 Significant
46-59 0.26531* 0.001 Significant
60 and above 0.33549* 0.027 Significant
Context 18-25 26-35 0.023 0.771 Not Significant
36-45 0.22155* 0.002 Significant
46-59 0.14974* 0.045 Significant
60 and above 0.124 0.343 Not Significant
26-35 18-25 -0.023 0.771 Not Significant
36-45 0.19825 0.003 Significant
46-59 0.13 0.072 Not Significant
60 and above 0.10 0.432 Not Significant

For context, significant differences were observed between the 18-25 and 36-45

age groups (mean difference = 0.22155, p = 0.002), as well as between the 18-25 and 46-

59 groups (mean difference = 0.14974, p = 0.045). Additionally, there was a significant

difference between the 26-35 and 36-45 age groups (mean difference = 0.19825, p = 0.003).

These results highlighted that younger respondents (18-25 and 26-35) assessed context

differently compared to those in the 36-45 and 46-59 age groups. In contrast, no significant

differences were found between 18-25 and 26-35 (mean difference = 0.023, p = 0.771), 46-

59 and 60 and above (mean difference = 0.124, p = 0.343), or between 26-35 and 46-59
 69

(mean difference = 0.13, p = 0.072), and 26-35 and 60 and above (mean difference = 0.10,

p = 0.432).

Overall, the findings suggested that age influenced the assessment of content and

context, with older respondents showing distinct perspectives compared to younger ones,

particularly in the content domain. Meanwhile, the context assessment differences

primarily reflected a divide between younger (18-25 and 26-35) and middle-aged groups

(36-45 and 46-59), underscoring how age-related life stages may shape respondents' views

and priorities.

To provide additional foundation to the post hoc analysis on age groups about the

differences in the assessment of content and context among the respondents, it was

appropriate to review some theoretical underpinnings of how age affects perception and

attitude in different contexts. According to Zhang, Y., & Hsu, C. (2019) entitled “Age

Differences in Attitudes Toward Learning and Technology Use” in the Journal of

Educational Technology & Society, the influence of age on the perception of educational

material and contextual factors was explored. The study revealed that preference and

expectation of educational content differ with the age of the learner, especially the older

persons. Precisely, the study showed that older participants would more likely prefer the

tools to be applied and useful to solve as many problems as possible than the young

participants who are more likely to be influenced by the aspects such as novelty. The study

also indicated that there were major disparities in how distinct age cohorts evaluated

pertinent variables in learning contexts. The first demographic study established that the

younger generation, between the ages of 18 and 35, embraced flexible learning and
 70

technology-based environments, whereas the senior generation, 36 years and above, opted

for structured learning environments that guide them.

Table 17 presents the Post Hoc Analysis according to Category.

Table 17. Post Hoc Analysis of Category.

Assessment Category Mean Difference p-value Interpretation
Factor
Policy A2 A1 0.17 0.249 Not Significant
objectives A3 .34118 0.000 Significant
A4 .42868 0.015 Significant
A5 0.03 0.758 Not Significant
A6 -0.12 0.343 Not Significant
A7 0.07 0.205 Not Significant
A3 A1 -0.17 0.285 Not Significant
A2 -.34118 0.000 Significant
A4 0.09 0.644 Not significant
A5 -.31012 0.013 Significant
A6 -.46250 0.002 Significant
A7 -.26863 0.004 Significant
A4 A1 -0.26 0.233 Not Significant
A2 -.42868 0.015 Significant
A3 -0.09 0.644 Not Significant
A5 -.39762 0.039 Significant
A6 -.55000 0.008 Significant
A7 -.35613 0.040 Significant
Content A1 A2 0.04 0.804 Not Significant
A3 0.30 0.095 Not Significant
A4 .50833 0.035 Significant
A5 0.31 0.086 Not Significant
A6 0.15 0.443 Not Significant
A7 0.10 0.534 Not Significant
A2 A1 -0.04 0.804 Not Significant
A3 .25838 0.014 Not Significant
A4 .46880 0.015 Significant
A5 .27237 0.014 Significant
A6 0.11 0.414 Not Significant
A7 0.06 0.356 Not Significant
A3 A1 -0.30 0.095 Not Significant
A2 -.25838 0.014 Significant
A4 0.21 0.312 Not Significant
A5 0.01 0.918 Not Significant
A6 -0.14 0.372 Not Significant
 71

Table 12. (Continued)

A7 -.20049 0.047 Significant
A4 A1 -.50833 0.035 Significant
A2 -.46880 0.015 Significant
A3 -0.21 0.312 Not Significant
A5 -0.20 0.351 Not Significant
A6 -0.35 0.120 Not Significant
A7 -.41091 0.031 Significant
A5 A1 -0.31 0.086 Not Significant
A2 -.27237 0.014 Significant
A3 -0.01 0.918 Not significant
A4 0.20 0.351 Not Significant
A6 -0.16 0.339 Not Significant
A7 -.21448 0.045 Significant

Table 17 revealed notable differences in the assessment of policy objectives and

content, with significant variations observed between certain categories. For policy

objectives, significant differences were found between categories such as A2 and A3 (mean

difference = 0.34118, p = 0.000), A2 and A4 (mean difference = 0.42868, p = 0.015), and

A3 compared to categories A5, A6, and A7. Similarly, A4 showed significant differences

when compared to A5, A6, and A7. These results suggested that middle categories,

particularly A3 and A4, were perceived differently in their alignment with policy objectives

compared to other categories. However, no significant differences were observed between

pairs like A1 and A2 (mean difference = 0.17, p = 0.249), indicating aligned assessments

for these groups.

In terms of content, significant differences were observed between several pairs,

such as A1 and A4 (mean difference = 0.50833, p = 0.035), A2 and A3 (mean difference

= 0.25838, p = 0.014), A2 and A4 (mean difference = 0.46880, p = 0.015), and A3 and A7

(mean difference = -0.20049, p = 0.047). Categories A4 and A7 were particularly

prominent, showing significant differences with multiple other categories. This suggested

that respondents assessed these categories differently in terms of content. Conversely, some
 72

pairs, such as A1 and A2 (mean difference = 0.04, p = 0.804), showed no significant

differences, reflecting consistency in their evaluations.

Overall, the analysis indicated distinct perspectives across categories, with

categories like A3, A4, and A7 frequently emerging as significantly different in

assessments of policy objectives and content. These findings highlighted areas where

targeted interventions or refinements may be necessary to address category-specific

perceptions and ensure alignment in policy and content evaluations.

Morrison & Burchinal (2020) revealed that single parents understand the existing

support policies in different ways, and there is a significant difference in the perceived

efficacy of existing policies. For instance, policies that are targeted for policies that concern

solo parents as a group in areas such as cash transfer, parenting services and education

preferences are perceived positively than food on the table policies for families. This is in

line with findings that some categories, especially the A3 and A4 assessed the policy

alignment differently.

Table 18 presents the Post Hoc Analysis according to No. of Children.

Table 18. Post Hoc Analysis of No. of Children.

Assessment No. of Children Mean P- Interpretation
Factor Difference value
Policy 1 to 3 4 to 6 .13777 0.011 Significant
objectives more than 6 .40130 0.002 Significant

4 to 6 1 to 3 -.13777 0.011 Significant

More than 6 .26353 0.048 Significant

Content 1 to 3 4 to 6 .22004 0.000 Significant

More than 6 .32558 0.020 Significant

Table 18 shows significant differences in respondents’ assessments of both policy

objectives and content. For policy objectives, significant differences were observed
 73

between respondents with 1 to 3 children and those with 4 to 6 children (mean difference

= 0.13777, p = 0.011), as well as between those with 1 to 3 children and more than 6

children (mean difference = 0.40130, p = 0.002). Additionally, a significant difference was

found between respondents with 4 to 6 children and those with more than 6 children (mean

difference = 0.26353, p = 0.048). These results indicated that perceptions of policy

objectives varied significantly depending on family size, with larger families

demonstrating greater disparities in their assessments.

For content, significant differences were noted between respondents with 1 to 3

children and those with 4 to 6 children (mean difference = 0.22004, p = 0.000), as well as

between those with 1 to 3 children and more than 6 children (mean difference = 0.32558,

p = 0.020). This suggested that smaller families assessed content differently from larger

families, particularly when comparing respondents with 1 to 3 children to those with more

than six.

Overall, these findings highlighted that family size significantly influenced

respondents’ assessment of policy objectives and content. Larger families, especially those

with more than six children, tended to assess both factors differently from smaller families,

reflecting the unique challenges and needs associated with varying family sizes. This

underscored the importance of tailoring policies and content to address the specific

circumstances of families with different numbers of children.

Based on the data, there were significant differences in the objectives and matter of

policies depending on how many children the respondents had. This emphasized how

crucial it was to understand family dynamics when formulating policies and how larger

families frequently face various responsibilities and challenges. These results are essential
 74

for understanding how family dynamics impact policy points of view, which may inform

enhanced policymaking. Milkie and Bianchi (2014) emphasized how individuals’ views

on social policies are influenced by their family structure, pointing out that bigger families

frequently face different goals and difficulties than smaller ones. Sandefur and McLanahan

(2014) examined how different family dynamics result in different socioeconomic results

and proposed that for policies to be effective, they should be sensitive to these variations.

4. Proposed Output

The survey results indicated that Ordinance 22-36, S. 2023, was generally well-

implemented in Batangas City. The ordinance enjoyed substantial support for its objectives

and provisions. However, notable gaps remained in its implementation, particularly in

areas such as barangay-level support, additional training programs, and the provision of

medical benefits. To address these gaps and enhance the ordinance's effectiveness,

strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of various demographic groups—including

age, family size, and employment status—are essential.

Key recommendations included the establishment of Solo Parent Assistance Desks

at the barangay level to disseminate information on available resources, such as locations

and operating hours. Brochures should be developed to educate solo parents about these

resources empowering them to improve their quality of life.

To further support the children of solo parents, age-appropriate educational

modules can be integrated into school curricula, ensuring that young individuals are aware

of available assistance. Advocacy initiatives led by legislators, social workers, and non-

governmental organizations (NGOs) should focus on developing evidence-based policy

 75

advocacy. This can include case studies, research findings, and actionable

recommendations aimed at improving policy implementation.

Together, these measures can provide solo parents with the knowledge and support

necessary to fully benefit from the ordinance, fostering more effective and equitable

implementation.
 76

5. Actual Output
 CHAPTER V

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary

The purpose of the research was to evaluate Batangas City's implementation of

Ordinance No. 22-36, the Solo Parents Act of 2023. In particular, it looked at the

demographic characteristics of single parents, including age, sex, category, number of

children, employment status, and their assessment of the ordinance in terms of its policy

objectives, content, and context. The study also looked at how these demographic

characteristics could affect how people see the ordinance. According to the null hypothesis,

respondents' evaluations of the identified factors did not significantly differ. The study also

aimed to suggest efficient communication techniques to raise solo parents' understanding

and use of the ordinance's provisions.

Researcher - made questionnaire form served as the primary tool for collecting data

for the study, which used a descriptive research design. To ensure the accuracy and

consistency of results, the questionnaire was validated and put through reliability testing.

The respondents included 294 single parents from Batangas City. They were chosen using

random sampling to represent a variety of demographics, including age, sex, category,

number of children, and job status. To ensure thorough representation, the questionnaire

was distributed directly to respondents in their communities as part of the data gathering

process. While the urban-rural mix of the research environment provided insights into

differences in knowledge and access to benefits, statistical procedures such as mean scores,

standard deviations, independent t-test, and ANOVA were used to evaluate answers.
 78

Results showed that although the ordinance's policy goals were mostly achieved,

several aspects, such as training programs and parental leave, still had gaps. Although

respondents acknowledged that the law successfully met social and financial demands, they

also pointed out informational gaps and administrative challenges. Age, sex,

category, number of children and employment status all showed significant changes in

views, indicating that demographic variables affect awareness and pleasure. To ensure that

the objectives of the ordinance are fully attained, the researcher suggested improving

communication strategies, reducing administrative procedures, and developing

relationships with non-governmental organizations and community groups.

Conclusion

This study evaluates Ordinance No. 22-36 in Batangas City, focusing on its

effectiveness for solo parents, identifying its strengths and weaknesses, and suggesting

improvements for improved support.

1. The study reveals that the majority of respondents are middle-aged, employed women

with 1–3 children, highlighting the dual challenges of work and family responsibilities

faced by solo parents in Batangas City.

2. The respondents strongly agreed on the policy objectives, content, and context of

Ordinance No. 22-36 in effectively addressing their primary needs through financial

support, social services, and legal protection, promoting social inclusion for single parents.

3. Demographic factors such as age, employment status, and number of children influence

assessment of Ordinance No. 22-36, emphasizing the need for tailored implementation to

address diverse solo parenting challenges.

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4. The study recommends creating targeted IEC materials. Brochures can improve

awareness, access, and the effective implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36, ensuring

greater support and stability for solo parents in Batangas City.

Recommendations

Below are the recommendations that when applied seeks to improve

implementation and effectiveness of Ordinance No. 22-36 for the support of solo parents

in Batangas City.

1. The Local Government Unit (LGU) can partner with SSS to streamline the application

and processing of benefits for solo parents. This collaboration can include training local

staff on SSS procedures and implementing technology solutions, ensuring faster access to

maternity, unemployment, and calamity benefits.

2. The LGU may improve its communication strategies by collaborating with the Social

Welfare and Development (SWD) Office to develop and distribute clear, accessible IEC or

Information, Education, and Communication materials. These resources should explain the

benefits and provisions of various support programs available to solo parents, emphasizing

specific groups like those with larger families or unemployed individuals.

3. The LGU may work with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority

(TESDA) to increase training and development opportunities. This could involve offering

specialized vocational training programs and workshops aimed at enhancing the skills of

solo parents, particularly younger ones, to improve their employability and job prospects.

4. The LGU can collaborate with PhilHealth to ensure that solo parents have access to

comprehensive health coverage. By providing information and assistance with enrollment

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and benefits, the LGU can help improve the overall health and well-being of solo parents

and their families.

5. The LGU can partner with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to

facilitate job fairs and skills development workshops. This partnership can create pathways

for solo parents to secure better job opportunities and gain access to livelihood programs

that align with their skills and experiences.

6. The LGU can create a local resource hub that combines services from various agencies,

including DSWD, SSS, and DOLE. This hub would serve as a one-stop shop for solo

parents, providing them with information, application assistance, and access to different

programs aimed at improving their financial stability and overall quality of life.

7. Future researchers are encouraged to conduct a follow-up impact assessment at least

three years after the implementation of Ordinance No. 22-36 S.2023 to evaluate its

effectiveness.

8. The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Agency can collaborate to develop and

distribute targeted IEC materials to improve awareness and accessibility of solo parent

programs like Ordinance No. 22-36. They can also partner with NGOs, private

organizations, and research institutions to provide financial support, social services, and

evidence-based refinements to policies, addressing the diverse needs of solo parents.

Additionally, advocacy campaigns and tailored programs can foster inclusive workplace

policies, legal aid, and counseling services to promote the well-being and stability of solo

parents.
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