The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office (FO) Caraga actively participated in the observance of the World Day Against Child Labor (WDACL) 2025 through the conduct of Project Angel Tree and Information and Service Caravan on Child Labor Prevention and Elimination, held today in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.

The event was spearheaded by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga as chair of the Regional Committee Against Child Labor (RCACL).

As chair of the Regional Committee for the Welfare of Children (RCWC) and co-chair of the RCACL, DSWD FO Caraga, through its Strategic Help Desks for Information, Education, Livelihood, and Other Developmental Interventions (SHIELD) Against Child Labor, remains committed to its advocacy to eliminate child labor and protect vulnerable children from exploitation.

On behalf of DSWD Caraga Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga, Protective Services Division (PSD) Chief Jessie Catherine Aranas emphasized the agency’s firm commitment to upholding children’s rights and providing comprehensive support to affected families.

“Kami sa ahensya mu supporta dili lang pinaagi sa mga programa para sa mga ginikanan pero hilabi na para sa pag protekta sa mga kabatan-unan layo sa pag pang-abuso, laban sa mga mag take advantage sa mga bulnerable nga mga bata,” Aranas stressed.

In support of raising awareness among parents, PSD Sectoral Unit Head Ms. Melanie Juan presented the salient features of Republic Act 9231 An Act Providing for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labor and Affording Stronger Protection for the Working Child, underscoring the importance of collective responsibility in preventing and eliminating child labor in communities.

During the event, SHIELD distributed school bags and tumblers to 100 former child laborers. Other members of the RCACL also extended various assistance including rice, vitamins, school kits, tumblers, and lunch bags to the beneficiaries.

San Miguel Municipal Mayor Hon. Michael Corilla expressed his gratitude to DOLE Caraga, DSWD Field Office Caraga, Surigao del Sur Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), RCACL members, and sponsors for their continued support and collaboration in addressing child labor.

As the country also commemorates Independence Day, DSWD Field Office Caraga underscores its unwavering mission to free Filipino children from the chains of child labor and safeguard their right to a brighter future. As Dr. Jose Rizal reminds us, “Kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan.” It is our collective duty to nurture and protect the hope of our nation.