Small Hands, Big Responsibility: The Consequences of Child Labor on Families' Hopes and Dreams in Barangay San Roque, Hagonoy, Bulacan

Abstract

This study involves the existing problem of child labor in Barangay San Roque, Hagonoy, Bulacan, and how it affects the socio-economic condition of the family. Though laws existed to protect these children, many families in this community still rely on child labor because of poverty, since they lack educational opportunities and do not have sufficient livelihood sources. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews of working children and their parents by adopting a qualitative approach. Findings reveal that child labor considerably interferes with children’s education, health, and general development, therefore maintaining a vicious cycle of poverty in families. The money that children bring home is used to support the family’s income but is disadvantageous to their academics as well as future economic opportunities and overall well-being. The research highlights the need to solve child labor problems by increasing access to education, providing alternative income-generating activities, and educating the community about the adverse effects of child labor. These interventions help local stakeholders and policymakers break the cycle of poverty by developing long-term sustainable solutions for community development.

Presenters

Ma. Cristina Tatoy
Student, Public Administration, Bulacan State University, Bulacan, Philippines

Mary Maxinne Francisco
Student, Public Administration, Bulacan State University, Bulacan, Philippines

Rafael Baesa
Professor, Department of Public Administration and Govermance, Bulacan State University, Bulacan, Philippines

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Social Impacts

KEYWORDS

CHILD LABOR, POVERTY, EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES, SOCIO ECONOMIC