Firms engaged in child labor to face closure

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Labor and Employment will order the closure of any establishments or business firms found violating any provisions of Republic Act 9231, otherwise known as “An Act Providing for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labor and Affording Stronger Protection for the Working Child.”

DOLE however clarified that business firms or establishments found violating any provisions of the law will only face closure after it will be “found to have violated three times.”

A proper procedure of closure such as prior notice and hearing shall be conducted first before the final closure, unless there are reasonable grounds to immediately close the said firms or establishments.

The DOLE secretary or the regional directors within their jurisdiction shall be the one to implement the said closure.

In its Department Circular No.3, Series of 2009 providing for the Guidelines on the Procedure for Closure of Business, Firm, or Establishment under R.A. 9231, DOLE specified that immediate closure shall be applied in any of the following circumstances: the violation of any of the provisions of RA 9231 has resulted in the death, insanity, or serious physical injury of a child worker; the firm or establishment is employing a child for prostitution or obscene or lewd shows; or there is imminent danger to the life and limb of the child.

With the said circular coming out, the DOLE shall go full-swing in its efforts to eliminate worst forms of child labor here in the country. — Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/MEEV  (THE FREEMAN)