Gains of anti-child labor law lauded

Sen. Loren Legarda lauded the gains of the 2003 Anti-Child Labor Law in reducing the number of Filipino children working in unsafe conditions, but acknowledged that poverty remains an issue.

- By MARC JAYSON CAYABYAB

Legarda said she authored Republic Act 9231 or the Anti-Child Labor Law and cited its importance since it was enacted into law on Dec. 19, 2003.

"RA 9231 has made a real difference in protecting children from hazardous work and providing them with opportunities for a better future," Legarda said.

"However, we must continue our efforts to address the root causes of child labor, such as poverty and lack of access to education," she added.

The law, among others, prohibits the worst forms of child labor, regulates the hours of work for children, ensures access to education and skills training, and sets penalties for employers violating child labor laws.