by Franklin P. Gumapon
DIPOLOG CITY, May
22 (PIA) - - Amid reports reaching the members of the city council here that a
number of sand and gravel gatherers have been employing children aged 17 years
old and below.
Reports have it
that minors are seen working in quarry sites within the city.
Some of these sand
and gravel gatherers who have been employing minors are reportedly operating
illegally as they lack the required government permits.
Responding to these
reports, the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod have requested the City
Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to conduct investigation on the problem
to protect the rights and welfare of children.
Councilor James
Cyril O. Ruiz also sponsored a resolution urging the CSWDO to look into the
alleged child labor/exploitation taking place in the different quarry sites in
the city.
Ruiz said employing
children/minors is a violation of existing laws, rules and regulations.
(FPG/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte)