Curbing Agricultural Child Labor: Challenges and Initiatives of the Local Government in the Province of Bukidnon

This inquiry sought to find out the challenges and initiatives of the Local Governments in the province of Bukidnon in addressing issues on child labor in the agriculture sector. The data were gathered through a structured survey questionnaire to determine the profile of households whose children are engaged in child labor, including the child’s reason for entering into work and working condition that may affect their physical, intellectual and social development. The key informants were also interviewed to determine the challenges encountered and initiatives done by the local government to minimize or even make their locale child labor free. The study utilized quantitative and qualitative method to analyze the data. The study revealed that despite the effort done by the government, there are still a significant number of children that are involved in child labor. The primary reason why children entered into work is to supplement the income of the household head that are insufficient to support the family. Although, the program and strategies on child labor adapted from the international framework may have slightly decreased the number of working children but it did not ensure long-term outcomes. The insufficient budget that resulted in the inefficiency of local implementation showed that the national government failed to prioritize in addressing the issue. For the government to provide long term and sustainable outcomes, it is crucial to review the child labor policies and set-up child-centered programs that promote the rights and well-being of working children.