To promote the protection and welfare of children in Romblon, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) MIMAROPA, through its Romblon Provincial Office, conducted a capacity-building program for 50 parents of child laborers (PCL) under the department's sustainable livelihood program recently.
One of the key topics discussed during the orientation was the rights of children under RA 9231, which emphasized the prohibition against the worst forms of child labor.
Kellen Esteves, the Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program (CLPEP) Focal Person of DOLE Romblon, encouraged the parents to explore entrepreneurial ventures. The department will provide them with training and resources to help them start their chosen businesses.
Luzil E. Jacalan, the Public Employment Service Officer of San Jose, expressed her appreciation during the activity.
“Capacity-building for the parents of child laborers is an avenue to open new opportunities and uplift the lives of their families. The development of their entrepreneurial skills will go a long way towards their empowerment, productive citizenship, and better participation in the nation's development. That's why we work on this campaign to end child labor in our community,” she said.
During the orientation, Vice Mayor Ronnie Samson conveyed his gratitude to the Department for extending its programs and services to the constituents.
“Initiatives like this have a significant impact on addressing the plight of child laborers in our municipality, particularly in terms of empowering parents to make a change. We are committed to nurturing and protecting our children from exploitative labor practices and creating better opportunities for them,” he said.
Participants created an individual proposal, which is one of the primary requirements to avail the program. (with reports from DOLE Romblon)
