Baseline study to eliminate worst forms of child labour in the Philippines

A recent baseline study conducted by Terre des Hommes Netherlands (TdH NL), in partnership with Bidlisiw Foundation and the Children’s Legal Bureau, and funded by the European Union sheds light on the persistence of child labour in the Visayas region of the Philippines. As part of our Strengthening the Community-based Protection Systems to Eliminate Worst Forms of Child Labour project in the Visayas Region, the study, carried out between December 2023 and February 2024, focused on Iloilo City, Dumaguete City, and the municipalities of Dauin, Sibulan, and Zamboanguita in Negros Oriental—areas where child labour cases are most prevalent.

The study engaged 361 children and their parents through surveys, interviews, group discussions, and document reviews. Findings revealed that awareness of child labour remains low. Only 2 in 10 children and 3 in 10 parents knew what to do if confronted with child labour, while more than half had limited understanding of its risks and available support services. Alarmingly, 70% of children and 41% of parents were unaware of the Barangay Councils for the Protection of Children (BCPCs), despite their critical role in addressing such cases.

On a positive note, the study identified 19 organisations already working in the region to provide services and programmes for children and families affected by child labour. Still, the research underscores the urgent need for stronger awareness campaigns, better access to protection mechanisms, and more active involvement of government and community stakeholders.

The findings will guide the implementation of the “Strengthening the Community-based Protection Systems to Eliminate Worst Forms of Child Labour (WFCL)” project. Ultimately, the study emphasises that ending child labour requires collective action—children, families, communities, and leaders must work together to build safer, healthier environments where every child can thrive.