Assistance programs for women in the Philippines are government- or NGO-led initiatives designed to support women’s health, safety, rights, and empowerment, especially among the poor and marginalized. These programs emerged in response to long-standing gender inequalities, poverty, and limited access to services—issues that became more visible through women’s rights movements and international commitments like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), which the Philippines ratified in 1981. Grounded in legal frameworks such as the Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710), these programs address urgent needs like reproductive health, violence prevention, education, and economic support. They remain essential today as many Filipino women still face systemic barriers that affect their well-being, safety, and ability to thrive.
In this guide, we rounded up a list of assistance programs that are mostly focused on supporting women in the Philippines. We also listed their features and benefits so you can check which type suits you best.
List of Assistance Programs for Women
The Philippine government and its agencies offer a variety of assistance programs that aim to empower women in different aspects of life—whether through financial support, health care, livelihood, or protection from abuse. These programs are designed to meet the specific needs of Filipino women across life stages, sectors, and situations.
Below are the general types of programs available, along with a brief description and the actual list of programs under each category:
- Health and Medical Support Programs: These programs provide financial and medical assistance to women for pregnancy, childbirth, cancer treatment, and related health needs. They are meant to ensure women receive essential care without excessive out-of-pocket costs.
- Maternity and Leave Benefits: These programs provide income replacement or paid time off for women who are pregnant, giving birth, or experiencing pregnancy-related complications. They ensure women can recover without financial strain.
- Shelter and Protection Services for Abused Women and Girls: These are safe spaces and rehabilitation programs for female survivors of abuse, exploitation, or violence. They offer full-time care, legal aid, and reintegration services.
- Livelihood and Entrepreneurship Assistance: These programs empower women economically through loans, training, and startup support. They are aimed at women entrepreneurs, farmers, and OFWs who want to start or grow a business.
These categories reflect the government’s multi-sectoral approach to supporting women—whether they are giving birth, starting a business, facing abuse, or in need of medical care. Each program is tailored to specific needs but collectively works to uplift the lives of Filipino women.
Now that you are aware of the different types of programs, let’s take a look at the actual programs and the features and benefits they offer to Filipino women.
1. PhilHealth Z Benefits for Breast Cancer
Provider: Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth)
This program helps cover the high cost of treatment for early-stage breast cancer. Qualified members and dependents can receive up to ₱1.4 million in financial coverage for care at contracted hospitals. The package includes the full treatment journey, from diagnosis to post-treatment monitoring.
Purpose: To give financial support to PhilHealth members diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer and ensure they get proper and complete care without excessive out-of-pocket costs.
Features and Benefits:
- Up to ₱1.4 million in coverage for breast cancer treatment
- Available for Stage 0 to IIIA breast cancer patients
- Direct payment from PhilHealth to contracted hospitals (no upfront fees)
- Must get treatment from PhilHealth-accredited hospitals only
- Includes surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormonotherapy, and post-treatment surveillance
- Full support from a hospital’s Multidisciplinary Team (MDT)
- Requires pre-authorization before starting treatment
- PhilHealth members and dependents must be active and eligible at the time of request
- No need to show proof of contribution if listed as eligible in the PhilHealth Benefit Eligibility Form (PBEF)
- Pre-authorization is valid for 60 days from approval
Note: Patients must meet specific clinical criteria and submit required forms through their chosen contracted health facility to avail of this benefit.
2. Maternity Care Benefits for Women About to Give Birth
Provider: PhilHealth
Expectant mothers in the Philippines can get financial help for maternity care through PhilHealth. This includes services during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Even non-members and minors can register to become eligible.
Purpose: To ensure all pregnant women, regardless of age or membership status, receive essential health services and financial support for safe pregnancy and childbirth.
Features and Benefits:
- Easy registration for new or inactive PhilHealth members
- Annual premium: ₱2,400 for coverage
- Maternity Care Package (MCP):
- ₱6,500 in accredited hospitals
- ₱8,000 in birthing homes, clinics, infirmaries
- Covers prenatal, delivery, postpartum, and follow-up checkups
- Normal Spontaneous Delivery (NSD) Package:
- ₱5,000 in hospitals
- ₱6,500 in birthing homes or clinics
- For normal, low-risk deliveries
- Coverage for C-section and complicated births if done in accredited hospitals
- Newborn Care Package (NCP):
- ₱1,750 value
- Includes newborn screening, hearing test, and essential care
- Point-of-Care Enrollment available for indigent patients in government hospitals
- Must attend at least 4 prenatal checkups to qualify
- One-time use benefit without penalties if used properly
3. Haven for Women
Provider: Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
The Haven for Women is a temporary shelter for women survivors of abuse aged 18–59, including those with dependents. It offers a safe space and support services to help victims heal, recover, and rebuild their lives. Services are available 24/7 and provided by trained professionals in a nurturing environment.
Purpose: To provide temporary protective custody and holistic support to abused women and their children, in line with laws protecting women from violence and exploitation.
Features and Benefits:
- Temporary shelter with full-time care
- Social case management and family reintegration support
- Free meals, clothing, and hygiene kits
- Medical and dental check-ups
- Psychological and psychiatric services
- Legal assistance and court support
- Formal and non-formal education opportunities
- Individual and group counseling
- Livelihood training (e.g., baking, farming, crafts)
- Aftercare services and referrals
4. Haven for Girls
Provider: DSWD
The Home for Girls is a safe residential facility for female children aged 7 to below 18 who are victims of sexual abuse, exploitation, or other forms of violence. The center offers a structured and nurturing environment where children receive care, healing, and rehabilitation. Referrals come from police, LGUs, NGOs, families, or concerned citizens.
Purpose: To protect and rehabilitate abused and exploited girl-children through temporary shelter and holistic support, helping them recover and reintegrate into society or their families.
Features and Benefits:
- 24/7 safe shelter and care for girl-children in crisis
- Comprehensive psychosocial and therapeutic services
- Case management and individual rehabilitation plans
- Access to education, life skills, and vocational training
- Legal and paralegal assistance
- Emotional, spiritual, and moral support
- Services for reintegration to families or placement in foster care
- Collaboration with LGUs, NGOs, and other support organizations
- Coverage includes Ilocos Region (Region 1) and nearby areas
5. SSS Maternity Benefit
Provider: Social Security System (SSS)
The SSS Maternity Benefit is a cash allowance given to female SSS members who are unable to work due to childbirth, miscarriage, or emergency termination of pregnancy. It supports recovery by replacing income during maternity leave. This benefit applies to employed, self-employed, voluntary, and OFW members.
Purpose: To provide financial assistance to female members during maternity leave or pregnancy-related situations.
Features and Benefits:
- Cash allowance for live childbirth, miscarriage, or pregnancy termination
- Coverage of 105 days for childbirth (120 days for solo parents; 60 days for miscarriage/ETP)
- Available to employed, self-employed, voluntary, and OFW members
- Maternity leave can be shared with a caregiver (up to 7 days)
- Employers can get reimbursed for advance payments
- Can file and track application through My.SSS online
- Benefit payable through bank or e-wallet account
- Special rules for solo parents and separated members
- 10-year window to file the claim
- Protection against overlapping benefit claims
6. DOLE Sugar Workers’ Maternity Benefit Claim
Provider: Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
This DOLE Sugar Workers’ Maternity Benefit program gives financial assistance to qualified women sugar workers who are pregnant or have recently given birth. It provides a one-time cash aid of ₱8,000 for each of the first four deliveries or medically necessary abortions. The goal is to ease the financial burden of childbirth or pregnancy-related medical care.
Purpose: To support sugar workers by helping cover pregnancy, childbirth, or therapeutic abortion expenses.
Features and Benefits:
- ₱8,000 cash assistance per claim (up to four times only)
- Open to both employed and recently unemployed sugar workers
- Includes small sugarcane farm owners with five hectares or less
- Can be claimed from the 7th month of pregnancy with a doctor’s certificate
- Post-delivery claims allowed for both live or stillbirths and medical abortions
- Representatives (spouse, child, parent, or sibling) can file on behalf of the claimant
- No fees or charges for filing
- Applications accepted within 3 years after delivery or abortion
- Processing time is around 15 working days
7. Maternity Leave for Government Employees
Provider: Civil Service Commission (CSC)
This program grants maternity leave to married women working in the government. Qualified employees may take 60 calendar days of paid leave for childbirth or miscarriage. The benefit depends on the employee’s length of service.
Purpose: To provide financial and employment protection to female government workers during pregnancy, childbirth, or miscarriage.
Features and Benefits:
- 60 calendar days of maternity leave for married women in government service
- Full pay if you’ve worked for at least 2 years
- Pro-rated pay if you’ve worked for more than 1 year but less than 2 years
- Half pay if you’ve worked for less than 1 year
- Leave must be used continuously, starting on or near the delivery date
- Allowed more than one maternity leave per year, regardless of number of pregnancies
- May return to work earlier with a medical certificate; no need to refund unused leave
- Maternity leave pay is granted even if delivery happens shortly before or after employment ends (within 15 days)
- Still entitled to paid maternity leave even if on extended leave without pay or facing a pending administrative case
- Contractual married female employees are also covered
- Employees may also be entitled to PhilHealth maternity benefits, depending on contributions and number of pregnancies
- Additional two-month special leave with pay may apply after gynecological surgery under the Magna Carta of Women
- Employees should apply for maternity leave in advance and check with HR for specific procedures and policies
- Maternity pay can be claimed from your employer; PhilHealth benefits can be claimed through automatic deduction or direct reimbursement
8. DA-ACPC AgriPinay Financial Assistance for Women in Agriculture
Provider: Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Credit Policy Council (DA-ACPC)
This AgriPinay program offers zero-interest loans to women involved in farming or fisheries. It aims to help them start or expand their agricultural ventures. Women borrowers don’t need to provide collateral and enjoy flexible repayment terms.
Purpose: To support women in agriculture by giving them easier access to credit and empowering them to grow their agri-based livelihood.
Features and Benefits:
- Loan amount of up to ₱100,000
- Zero interest and no collateral required
- Repayment period of up to 5 years (based on project cash flow)
- 3.5% one-time service fee
- Can be used for production, processing, marketing, equipment, or facility needs
- Capacity-building training included (business planning, bookkeeping, etc.)
- Open to women from farming or fishing households, including indigenous communities
- Endorsed by the DA Regional Gender and Development (GAD) focal person
- Backed by the government and handled by accredited lending partners
9. Balik Pinay! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program
Provider: Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), in partnership with DOLE and the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO)
This program provides livelihood support to distressed or displaced Filipina overseas workers who returned to the Philippines due to abuse, conflict, or unfinished contracts. It offers training and a startup business kit worth ₱10,000 to help them rebuild their lives locally. The aim is to help them reintegrate into society and achieve financial independence.
Purpose: To assist returning distressed female OFWs in starting their own small businesses and becoming self-reliant after their experiences abroad.
Features and Benefits:
- Livelihood grant of up to ₱10,000 (₱2,500 for training, ₱7,500 for starter kit)
- Skills training and entrepreneurial development
- Business plan assistance and technical support
- Free startup tools, equipment, and materials
- Certification for completed livelihood and entrepreneurship training
- Priority for OFWs affected by abuse, illegal recruitment, conflict, or exploitation
- No repayment required – this is not a loan
10. Emerging FILIPINA Lending Program
Provider: Land Bank of the Philippines (Landbank)
This program supports women-led businesses by offering accessible loans and capacity-building training. It aims to strengthen skills in areas like marketing, finance, and technology. Landbank partners with agencies like Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to help women grow and sustain their enterprises.
Purpose: To empower female entrepreneurs by providing them with affordable financing and essential business skills for growth.
Features and Benefits:
- Open to women-owned or women-led MSMEs (majority ownership or leadership must be female)
- Accepts loan applications for:
- Working capital
- Business expansion or renovation
- Financing purchase orders or letters of credit
- Rediscounting or on-lending (for cooperatives and partner institutions)
- Loan types offered:
- Short-Term Loan Line
- Term Loan (up to 10 years)
- Rediscounting or On-Lending Facility
- Loanable amount:
- Up to 80% of actual project cost
- Up to 85% for on-lending or rediscounting needs
- Interest rate:
- 5% fixed for first 3 years, subject to annual repricing
- Pass-on rates:
- Up to 12% for agri-loans (including farmers and fishers)
- Up to 15% for non-agri loans
- Grace period and repayment:
- Up to 1-year grace period for term loans
- Up to 10 years repayment term based on business cash flow
- Penalties for late payments:
- 24% per annum (standard)
- 3% per annum for cooperatives after 30-day grace period
- Collateral options include:
- Real estate or chattel mortgage
- Hold-out deposits
- Other acceptable securities
- Additional credit support:
- Promissory notes from sub-borrowers
- Post-dated checks
- Insurance or guarantee assignments
- Joint and several signatures
- Capacity-building support in partnership with TESDA, DTI, and others
- Training opportunities for business management, marketing, finance, and IT
- Must meet Landbank’s credit risk criteria (RAAC)
11. GREAT Women Project 2
Provider: Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), with support from Global Affairs Canada
The GREAT Women Project 2 (Gender Responsive Economic Actions for the Transformation of Women) aimed to strengthen women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines. Though the project officially ended in 2022, its tools, resources, and partnerships continue to support women entrepreneurs. It focused on improving business skills, access to finance, and gender-inclusive policies.
Purpose: To empower women entrepreneurs by making their businesses more competitive, sustainable, and recognized by formal institutions.
Features and Benefits:
- Business training and mentoring
- Access to financial literacy programs and capital links
- Support for product development and marketing
- Assistance in business registration and formalization
- Promotion of gender equality in enterprise policies
- Strong community networks and partnerships with DTI and LGUs
- Priority support for women in marginalized and rural areas
- Opportunities for participation in ongoing DTI and PCW programs
12. Community-Based, Women-Centered Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinics
Provider: Likhaan Center for Women’s Health
These are health clinics located in poor and underserved communities, run by trained nurses, midwives, and community health workers. They offer free sexual and reproductive health services like family planning, STI treatment, and maternal care. The clinics also provide support for survivors of sexual violence and reach remote areas through teleconsultation and outreach.
Purpose: To provide accessible and rights-based sexual and reproductive health care to women and girls in marginalized communities.
Features and Benefits:
- Free contraceptive services (pills, injectables, IUDs, implants)
- Prenatal and postpartum care
- STI and reproductive infection treatment
- HIV counseling and testing
- Cervical cancer screening and cryotherapy (in selected clinics)
- Tuberculosis screening
- Post-abortion counseling
- Emergency and psychological support for sexual violence survivors
- Health outreach services in remote areas
- Tele-consultation for far-flung patients
13. Free Clinical Breast Examination and Consultation
Provider: Philippine Foundation for Breast Care, Inc. (PFBCI)
The Philippine Foundation for Breast Care, Inc. offers free clinical breast exams and consultations to anyone in need. Services are provided through their Breast Care Center located at the Out-Patient Department. This initiative aims to promote early detection and proper care for breast-related health concerns.
Purpose: To provide accessible breast health services and promote early detection of breast conditions, including cancer.
Features and Benefits:
- Free clinical breast examination
- Free consultation with medical professionals
- Open to all, no appointment required
- Located within the Out-Patient Department for convenience
- Helps in early detection and treatment planning
14. Reproductive Health for Metro Manila’s Young Women
Provider: Likhaan Center for Women’s Health
This program offers free birth control implants to young women aged 15–24 in Metro Manila. Each implant lasts up to 3 years and is available at Likhaan clinics. Services are made affordable with support from PhilHealth.
Purpose: To help young women avoid unplanned pregnancies and improve their chances at education, health, and employment.
Features and Benefits:
- 700 long-term contraceptive implants
- Free services at Likhaan clinics
- PhilHealth coverage for affordability
- Targeted to low-income, underserved communities
- Promotes reproductive rights and women’s health
- Lowers risk of early pregnancy and health complications
- Supports women in continuing school or finding work
15. Cash for Protection for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Women at Risk
Provider: UNFPA Philippines
This program was launched as part of the emergency response to major earthquakes in the Philippines. It provides immediate cash assistance to women and girls who are survivors or at risk of gender-based violence, including those with mental health needs. The goal is to help them recover, feel safe, and regain their dignity.
Purpose: To provide urgent financial support that strengthens protection, promotes healing, and helps GBV survivors and at-risk women access essential services during emergencies.
Features and Benefits:
- Cash aid integrated into GBV case management
- Supports urgent protection, recovery, and mental well-being
- Helps women meet immediate needs during crises
- Promotes dignity and emotional resilience
- Raises awareness among government and partners about using cash as a GBV response tool
- Included in UNFPA’s multi-service support package in humanitarian settings
16. Mag Negosyo Ta ‘Day (MTD) Program
Provider: Office of the Vice President (OVP)
The Mag Negosyo Ta ‘Day (MTD) Program is a livelihood assistance initiative by the OVP that supports individuals and women’s groups from marginalized sectors. It helps them start or grow small businesses through funding, training, and mentorship. The program empowers beneficiaries to become financially independent and active in their communities.
Purpose: To provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to Filipinos affected by poverty, calamities, or lack of access to income, enabling them to become self-reliant and contribute to local development.
Features and Benefits:
- Financial Assistance: Up to ₱200,000 in capital for individuals or groups.
- Business Training: Skills development sessions in partnership with DTI and PDIC.
- Open to All: Available to solo applicants or organized groups.
- Partner Support: Collaboration with accredited civil society organizations for guidance.
- 20% Equity Requirement: Promotes shared ownership and commitment.
- Nationwide Access: Submit applications via any OVP Satellite Office.
- Transparent Process: Requires proper documentation for legitimacy.
- Project Monitoring: OVP tracks progress and provides guidance.
17. #KayaKoTo: Teen Pregnancy Prevention Campaign
Provider: Likhaan Center for Women’s Health
#KayaKoTo is a youth-centered campaign that helps young women make smart, informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health. It breaks down harmful gender stereotypes and clears up myths around teen pregnancy. The program encourages open, honest conversations to build confidence and awareness.
Purpose: To empower young women to take control of their sexual health and reduce unplanned teen pregnancies through education and community support.
Features and Benefits:
- Hands-on learning through booths on self-defense, contraception, and teen pregnancy facts
- Open forums with health experts, educators, and advocates
- Fun and inclusive activities that promote body positivity and equality
- Youth training to lead reproductive health advocacy
- Backed by global partners like the Embassy of the Netherlands and Global Affairs Canada
- Builds safe spaces for open dialogue in communities
18. Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Programs
Provider: Local Government Units (LGUs)
WEE Programs are local initiatives that help women build or grow their own businesses. These programs aim to support women through training, financial aid, and business opportunities. Each city or province may have its own version of the program.
Purpose: To empower women by giving them the tools and support they need to become financially independent and successful entrepreneurs.
Features and Benefits:
- Business skills training and mentorship
- Access to livelihood or startup capital
- Support for expanding existing businesses
- Tailored programs based on local needs (e.g., Kalinga’s Livelihood Assistance, Naga City’s GrOW Negosyo, Davao City’s Magnegosyo ‘Ta Day)
- Strengthens women’s role in the local economy
19. Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP)
Provider: DSWD
The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) helps low-income Filipinos improve their way of life through livelihood and employment support. It offers training, resources, and funding to start small businesses or find jobs. The program is available nationwide and targets poor, vulnerable, and marginalized communities.
Purpose: To empower disadvantaged women and families by giving them tools, training, and funding to earn a steady income and improve their living conditions.
Features and Benefits:
- Two program tracks:
- Microenterprise Development (MD):
- Up to ₱15,000 Seed Capital Fund (SCF) for starting small businesses
- ₱15,000 Skills Training Fund for business skills
- Support for joining Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPAs)
- Employment Facilitation (EF):
- Up to ₱5,000 Employment Assistance Fund for job search expenses
- Basic job readiness training
- Microenterprise Development (MD):
- Both tracks:
- Cash for Building Livelihood Assets (CBLA) — up to 11 days of regional minimum wage
- Training and guidance from DSWD officers
- 2 years of post-assistance monitoring and support
- Available across all regions
- Each household may enroll up to 2 members in different livelihood tracks
Video: Women Money Matters
Access to the right tools and support can help women become more empowered, not only in terms of finances but also in their overall general capacity as a person. Though, it can’t be denied that health is one of the main focus of the currently available programs in the Philippines, money also matters especially for women. Watch this video and learn more about the effect of the right tools and support for women: