Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 7658)
The main purpose of Republic Act No. 7658 is to prohibit the employment of children below 15 years of age in public and private undertakings, thereby amending Section 12, Article VIII of R.A. 7610 to enhance child protection against exploitation and labor abuse.
Children below 15 years old are generally prohibited from employment, except under specific conditions such as working under the sole responsibility of their parents or legal guardians, or participation in public entertainment with proper permits and safeguards.
The child's employment must not endanger their life, safety, health, or morals, must not impair their normal development, and the parent or guardian must ensure the child receives the prescribed primary and/or secondary education.
Employment or participation of children in public entertainment is allowed if it is essential, the employment contract is concluded by parents or legal guardians with the child's consent if possible, and with the approval of the Department of Labor and Employment, with strict compliance to prescribed conditions.
Employers must ensure the child's protection, health, safety, morals and normal development; prevent exploitation or discrimination considering remuneration and working time; and implement ongoing training and skills acquisition programs approved by authorities.
Yes, employers must first secure a work permit from the Department of Labor and Employment before engaging any child under these exceptional cases.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is responsible for issuing work permits and promulgating necessary rules and regulations for effective implementation of this law.
The law requires that the parent or legal guardian must provide the child with the prescribed primary and/or secondary education despite the child's employment.
All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and regulations, or parts thereof which are contrary to or inconsistent with this Act are modified or repealed accordingly.
This Act took effect fifteen (15) days after its complete publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two national newspapers of general circulation, whichever came earlier.