CamSur joins #EndChildLabor movement, celebrates Project Angel Tree

In solidarity with the global campaign to eliminate child labor, the Department of Labor and Employment – Camarines Sur Provincial Office (DOLE-CSPO), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Camarines Sur through its Public Employment Service Office (Camsur Peso), spearheaded the “Information Service Caravan cum Gift-Giving Project Angel Tree” on July 4, 2025 at the Digital Transformation Center, Capitol Complex, Cadlan, Pili.

Over 130 children, along with their parents, from the barangays of Curry, Sto. Niño, Himaao, Del Rosario, and Tinangis in Pili participated in activities aimed at raising awareness about the rights of children to enjoy their childhood and to access quality education, free from the burden of labor. DOLE Region V Director Imelda “Dedeng” Gatinao stressed that while minors can work under certain conditions, employment must not exceed 40 hours per week and must not interfere with their education or development.

The event featured collaborative games, a mascot performance, and a magic show. The Philippine National Police offered free grooming services, while the Philippine Statistics Authority extended civil registration services to attendees.

Governor Lray Villafuerte attended the event, reaffirming the province's commitment to the movement. “Huwag kayong matakot mangarap, huwag ninyong tipirin ang inyong mga pangarap. Patuloy ang pag-asa, patuloy ang pag-aaral. Hindi kayo nag-iisa,” he said, highlighting the province’s ongoing youth development programs such as scholarships, financial assistance, free tertiary education, and skills training for employment.

This advocacy event marks another significant step in Camarines Sur’s efforts to uphold the rights of children and ensure that every young person is given a fair chance at a brighter, more empowered future.