The Department of Labor and Employment XI-Davao Oriental Field Office (DOFO) spearheaded the turnover ceremony of livelihood assistance to the 37 parents of child laborers in Mati City, in celebration of the 2021 World Day Against Child Labor.

Together with the PESO Manager of the City of Mati, Ms. Pauline Elsa Olita, the livelihood starter kits were awarded to 16 beneficiaries from Brgy. Central and 21 beneficiaries from Brgy. Badas.

To provide the sustainable needs of the beneficiaries, these kits were designed suitably based on their desired start-ups. Grocery store items were handed to the 13 beneficiaries from Brgy. Badas and 14 beneficiaries from Brgy. Central. Commercial rice trading items were given to the two (2) beneficiaries from Brgy. Central and five (5) beneficiaries from Brgy. Badas. Farming tools and materials were given to the two (2) beneficiaries in Brgy. Badas. Lastly, one (1) beneficiary from Brgy. Badas received the coastal fishing equipment.

Regional Director Ofelia B. Domingo noted that providing the parents of child laborers an access to livelihood opportunities is just one of the many efforts of DOLE to contribute to the prevention and elimination of child labor. “These turnover ceremonies are just the start of the journey. We will equip the beneficiaries with appropriate knowledge, enhance their skills, and monitor their progress,” she added.

The turnover ceremony was held at the soon-to-be-opened, new DOLE XI-DOFO facility located in Honeys, Rizal Extension, Brgy. Central, Mati City, Tuesday, June 22.