CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga – Thousands of advocates, partners, and supporters took part in the first-ever “Takbo para sa Batang Malaya” fun run organized by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region III in observance of the World Day Against Child Labor.
With the theme, “Sa Bagong Pilipinas: Mag-aaral ang Bata, Hindi Manggagawa!”, the event served as a strong call to action for a collective stance to eliminate child labor and ensure that every Filipino child is in school instead of working.
DOLE Regional Director Geraldine Panlilio stressed the importance of unity and shared responsibility in ensuring that no child is forced to work.
“What we are doing right now is for children we may never meet, but for children that we want lives to change. This initiative is dedicated to our youth and stands as a testament to our collective commitment to support the national goal of achieving a child labor-free Philippines,” Panlilio said.
One of the runners expressed his support for the campaign against child labor.
“As a young person, I believe that the workplace is no place for children. We should be in school and enjoying our youth. This run is inspiring because it shows that the government and the community truly care about protecting our future,” he said.
The event also featured a live band performance by NBNP, Kadiwa ng Pangulo stalls offering affordable local goods, and interactive booths where attendees pledged their support to end child labor.
Meanwhile, DOLE Region 3 continues to lead the Batang Malaya campaign through community-based child labor profiling, education and scholarship referrals, and livelihood assistance to families addressing the root causes of child labor in Central Luzon. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)