Overview/Background

Under Republic Act No. 9231, the Department is mandated to protect the working child under allowable work circumstances against abuse, exploitation and discrimination.

As a rule, no child below 15 years of age shall be employed, permitted or suffered to work, in any public or private establishment except: 1) when the child works under the sole responsibility of his/her parents or guardian, provided that only members of the child’s family are employed, and 2) when the child’s employment or participation in public entertainment or information is essential.

A Working Child’s Permit is issued to any child below 15 years of age before he/she is allowed to commence work, usually on short-term and per project basis, in a family undertaking and in public entertainment or information.

Forms:

• Working Child Permit Application Form
• Working Child Permit Card (Individual)
• Group Permit for Working Children
• Loss of Working Child Permit Clearance Form

Legal Bases:

• Department Circular No.02-18: Amending DC 2-17 Guidelines on the Issuance of WCP for Children Below 15 years of Age Engaged in Public Entertainment or Information
• Department Circular No. 02-17: Guidelines on the Issuance of Work Permit for Children Below 15 years of Age Engaged in Public Entertainment or Information
• Department Order No. 65-04: Rules and Regulations Implementing Republic Act No. 9231 Amending RA 7610, as amended
• Republic Act No. 9231: An Act Providing for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labor and Affording Stronger Protection for the Working Child, amending RA 7610