How has child labour in Manila been addressed by local policies?

Child labour in Manila has been addressed through local policies such as the Child Labour Prevention and Elimination Program (CLPEP).

The Philippine government, particularly in Manila, has been proactive in addressing the issue of child labour. One of the key policies implemented is the Child Labour Prevention and Elimination Program (CLPEP). This program, initiated by the Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE), aims to protect children from all forms of labour, particularly those that are hazardous and exploitative. The CLPEP includes a range of strategies such as awareness-raising, provision of services to child labourers and their families, and strengthening the enforcement of child labour laws.

Another significant policy is the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES). This initiative provides employment opportunities for poor but deserving students aged 15-30 during summer or Christmas vacations. The goal is to help them finance their education and deter them from engaging in child labour.

The local government of Manila has also passed City Ordinance No. 8331, which prohibits and penalizes the employment of minors in certain types of work. This ordinance is in line with the national law, Republic Act No. 7610, which provides special protection against child abuse, exploitation, and discrimination.

Moreover, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has implemented the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). This is a conditional cash transfer program that provides financial assistance to poor households, on the condition that their children attend school and receive regular health check-ups. By addressing poverty, which is a root cause of child labour, the 4Ps program helps to prevent children from being forced into work.

In addition, the Department of Education (DepEd) has been implementing the Alternative Learning System (ALS), a parallel learning system that provides a practical option for out-of-school children, including child labourers, to complete basic education.

These policies and programs demonstrate the concerted efforts of the local government in Manila to address child labour. However, the effectiveness of these measures is contingent on their proper implementation and the active participation of the community.