Baguio City: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) is strengthening its partnership and advocacy programs with other government agencies and sectors to provide a holistic solution to child labor. Imelda Romanillos, director of the DOLE-CAR, stated in an interview on Tuesday that they recently conducted an information and service caravan for implementing measures against child labor.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE is the lead agency in addressing the problem and achieving a child labor-free Philippines. Romanillos emphasized promoting the program and advocacy with partner agencies, local government units (LGUs), and the public. The efforts extend beyond the Philippines’ child labor program, reaching out to inform them of the various programs of DOLE in collaboration with other agencies, such as child-minding and caring programs.

Romanillos mentioned that the goal is to develop a whole-of-nation approach for a comprehensive solution to the problem. The approach is not only about removing children from labor but also considering the family’s situation, preventing siblings from entering similar circumstances, and ensuring a sustained change in their lives.

Several agencies have enrolled their respective programs to contribute to addressing the issue. The strategy aims to consolidate efforts to meet the needs of children and their families, revisiting those previously assisted to ensure life-changing support that disrupts the cycle of poverty and child labor.

DOLE-CAR’s records indicate that in 2024 alone, at least 962 parents of child laborers received livelihood projects totaling PHP28 million. Each beneficiary received starter kits worth up to PHP30,000, depending on the proposed livelihood project. Romanillos added that they collaborate with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to provide livelihood support and other forms of assistance, such as packaging and financial training.

Social welfare services, provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, are also part of the initiative. Romanillos noted that data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) shows around 1,200 child laborers in the region, which they are validating to determine their locations and sectors of employment.

The initiative targets assisting at least 400 parents by withdrawing their children from child labor. The assistance is conditional on sending children back to school, as it is their right. Given that poverty is a common cause, the livelihood aid aims to help families graduate from poverty, reducing the necessity for children to contribute to the family’s basic needs.