SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is reinforcing the importance of educating parents and communities to eliminate child labor in all its forms in the Ilocos Region.
This goal was strengthened with the launching of an information and service caravan on child labor prevention and elimination at the Don Mariano Marcos State University South La Union Campus (DMMMSU-SLUC) on Feb. 20.
The event brought together parents, children, and key stakeholders in a collaborative effort to protect children from labor exploitation and promote their right to education and well-being.
DOLE RO1 Regional Director Exequiel Ronie Guzman emphasized the importance of ongoing advocacy and multi-sectoral collaboration in achieving a child labor-free Philippines.
“This caravan is part of a broader strategy under the current administration to eradicate child labor in the Philippines. Our vision is to create a Child Labor Free Philippines by ensuring that every child has access to education and opportunities to thrive,” he stated.
He also reported that Region 1 currently has an estimated 5,612 active child labor cases, with interventions already provided to 25 percent of the children involved.
Guzman stressed the need to further reduce these numbers through educational initiatives and livelihood assistance for families.
The caravan, done in partnership with the Regional Council Against Child Labor (RCACL), also highlighted the collective commitment of national and regional agencies to safeguard children’s rights.
As a show of solidarity, regional line agencies–including the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Commission on Human Rights (CHR), and Civil Service Commission (CSC)–signed a pledge of commitment to support the implementation of International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention No. 190, which advocates for the protection of children from all forms of exploitation and abuse.
Services and support
At least, 100 children from the second district of La Union, including Agoo, Aringay, and Santo Tomas, participated in the event, accompanied by their parents and guardians.
Through DOLE’s Project Angel Tree, the children received essential supplies such as school materials, tumblers, hygiene kits, and food packs—gifts aimed at enhancing their well-being and supporting their education.
The caravan also provided vital services from various government agencies, offering dental care, legal consultation, counseling, skills training, and interactive activities.
This year, DOLE-RO1 plans to conduct the activity quarterly, expanding its reach and impact compared to the previous annual schedule.
A key part of the event was an educational session on Republic Act 9231, otherwise known as the “Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act,” which protects children from abuse, exploitation, and discrimination. The session helped parents and participants understand children’s rights and the services available to fight child labor.
Community voices
Pinky Dacanay, a mother from Bail, Santo Tomas, expressed her gratitude for the support provided by the program.
“This event is very helpful, and I am thankful for it. Our children should really go to school and be educated, not employed,” she said.
Through continuous collaboration and community engagement, DOLE-RO1 and its partners remain steadfast in their mission to protect children’s rights, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed—free from the burden of labor. (CCMT/REB/MRD, PIA Region 1)
