Coverage of the Parent Effectiveness Service Program (PES)
- PES primarily targets fathers, mothers, and parent-substitutes (e.g., foster parents, guardians).
- Priority is given to parents of vulnerable children, including at-risk youth, children in conflict with the law, victims of violence, solo and adolescent parents.
Key Definitions
- "Child": Persons under 18, or those over 18 unable to care for themselves due to disability.
- "Module": Educational materials taught in sessions forming part of the PES curriculum.
- "PES Program": A parenting education program designed to enhance knowledge and skills in various aspects of child development and parenting.
- "Parent-Substitute": Non-biological caregivers with custody and responsibility for a child, including foster parents and legal guardians.
- "Surrogate Parent": Adults who voluntarily act as substitute parents without legal authority.
Establishment and Module Content of PES
- The PES Program is mandated to be established in every city and municipality.
- Modules cover topics such as: roles and needs of parents, Filipino family dynamics, parenting challenges, child development, prevention of child abuse, positive child behavior, health and nutrition, home management, environmental health, disaster preparedness, and adolescent development.
- DSWD leads module development in coordination with various agencies and LGUs.
- LGUs may adapt modules to local context while maintaining consistency with law.
Research and Program Assessment
- DSWD and partner agencies conduct ongoing research on effective parenting and child development.
- An analytical framework will evaluate program outcomes, resource use, and sustainability.
- LGUs must monitor participation rates and feedback from children regarding parental involvement.
Implementation Procedures
- PES is implemented through social welfare offices in cities, municipalities, and barangays.
- Sessions include scheduled trainings and home visits for knowledge dissemination.
- Use of modular and distance learning methodologies, including social media, is encouraged.
- Accredited private organizations may assist implementation.
- PES compliance satisfies requirements under the Early Years Act and related legislation.
Roles and Responsibilities of Agencies and LGUs
- DSWD: Primary agency for program promotion, review, and service provision to families.
- DepEd, ECCD Council, SGCs, DOH: Provide content integration, learning materials, and health/nutrition support.
- DOJ: Ensures child rights and legal protections guide the program.
- DILG: Recognizes LGU achievements and facilitates module replication.
- LGUs: Coordinate implementation, provide facilities, and incentivize active parent participation.
- Families and communities support through active involvement.
Capacity Building for Facilitators
- Training focuses on skills to effectively engage and empower families.
- Facilitators include diverse professionals and trained parents.
- LGUs train personnel for monitoring, evaluation, and data analysis.
Development of PES Manuals
- DSWD and partner agencies must develop and produce manuals within three months for facilitators.
- Existing modules are harmonized for effective implementation.
Advocacy and Public Awareness
- Regular campaigns promote the program benefits using community training and multi-media platforms.
Funding and Budget
- Initial funding comes from current appropriations of involved agencies.
- Subsequent funding included in the annual national budget.
- LGUs finance session costs and related expenses from local funds or Special Education Fund.
Rules and Regulations
- DSWD, with partner agencies, to issue implementing rules within 60 days of the law's effectivity.
- IRR becomes effective 30 days after publication.
Legal Provisions
- Separability clause ensures unaffected provisions remain valid if parts are invalidated.
- Repealing clause rescinds inconsistent laws and issuances.
- The law takes effect 15 days after publication, regardless of IRR issuance.