Navigating the Line: Utilization of Communication Channels and Awareness of the Expanded Solo Parent Welfare Act (RA 11861)

The Expanded Solo Parent Welfare Act, or Republic Act 11861, enhances provisions and benefits for solo parents originally set by RA 8972. This law aimed to support solo parents in raising their children, managing expenses, and combating poverty by providing tailored assistance. Ensuring that all solo parents are aware of and can access these benefits is crucial, as well as the communication channels they utilize to obtain information about RA 11861. This study examined the frequency of utilization of various communication channels, including television, radio, internet, and print media, among solo parents and assessed their ease of access to information and awareness levels regarding RA 11861. Utilizing the De Fleur Model of Communication and Diffusion of Innovations Theory, a quantitative survey involving 93 registered solo parents was conducted in one of the barangays in Panabo City, Davao del Norte, Philippines. The study is limited to a single barangay, which may affect the generalizability of results. Findings indicate that the internet is the most utilized channel for information about the welfare act, while radio is the least used, considering the demographic differences such as age, sex, educational attainment, and employment status. It revealed that solo parents can adequately understand the Act. A significant positive relationship was found between communication channel utilization and awareness levels, with ease of access to information, particularly through the internet, strongly correlating with higher awareness levels. Recommendations emphasized the importance of leveraging high-frequency channels and improving digital literacy for solo parents in enhancing their awareness and accessing the Act's benefits.