Child laborers in the Cordillera have reached 1,298 in the first semester of 2025, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), underscoring the continued exploitation of young workers despite ongoing national efforts to protect children.

The data, based on figures from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Cordillera, shows a worrying reality as the country marks November as National Children’s Month for the 33rd year. In 2024, an estimated 513,000 children nationwide were engaged in labor.

DSWD Cordillera Regional Director Maria Catbagan-Aplaten confirmed that services and assistance were rolled out to affected families in coordination with partner agencies. Educational supplies were distributed to 190 child laborers, while 128 parents and guardians received livelihood projects and were enrolled in the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.

To further curb the rise of cases, the region also held two quarterly Information and Service Caravans to raise community awareness on the dangers of child labor and highlight available government interventions.