The Bangsamoro government is doubling down on its commitment to improve worker welfare and eradicate child labor across its cities and provinces, regional officials announced on Saturday, February 1.
This year, the autonomous region is set to roll out intensified programs. These programs aims to safeguard the rights of workers and ensuring children are free from exploitative labor practices.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Labor and Employment-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MoLE-BARMM) revealed that part of their 2025 agenda includes targeted interventions to support former combatants who have reintegrated into society. These individuals, once considered enemies of the state, are now thriving as agricultural and industrial workers, thanks to the region’s reintegration initiatives.
In a remarkable turnaround, over 400 former members of the outlawed Dawlah Islamiya and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters surrendered in batches last year to the Army’s 6th Infantry Division. With the help of military officials and local leaders, many of these individuals have found new purpose as farmers, laborers, and employees in businesses and construction companies.
A Multi-Sector Approach to Ending Child Labor
Bangsamoro Labor and Employment Minister Muslimin Sema emphasized that the region will continue its multi-sector, inter-agency programs to combat child labor and the recruitment of children as combatants. These efforts are particularly critical in areas still plagued by unresolved cases of rido, or clan wars, which remain a persistent challenge in parts of Mindanao.
According to records from the Bangsamoro social services ministry, MoLE-BARMM, and local government units in Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Lanao del Sur, established in 2024 more than 10 major anti-child labor groups. These groups, supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the non-governmental organization Integrated Resource Development for Tri-People, and local leaders, are making significant strides in protecting children from exploitation.
The anti-child labor coalitions bring together local executives, Muslim and Christian religious leaders, and educators under the umbrella of the Bangsamoro education ministry. Their collaborative efforts are already making a difference in communities across the region.
Gratitude and Continued Collaboration
Minister Sema expressed his gratitude to the ILO, the Integrated Resource Development for Tri-People, and the diverse sectors involved in the anti-child labor initiatives. “We are thankful for the unwavering support of these organizations and the dedication of our local leaders,” he said.
One notable example of their work is the joint effort by MoLE-BARMM, the ILO, and the Cotabato City government to prevent schoolchildren from scavenging for recyclable waste at a garbage dumpsite in Barangay Poblacion 9. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to keep children in school and away from hazardous labor.
Planning for a Brighter Future
Earlier this week, top officials from MoLE-BARMM, convened in Cotabato City to outline their expanded public service goals for 2025. These officials include Bai Sara Jane Sinsuat of the Bureau of Employment, Promotion and Welfare; and lawyer Mohammad Ali Midtimbang, Jr. of the Research, Planning and Policy Development Services, Their plans include strengthening worker protections, enhancing reintegration programs, and intensifying the fight against child labor.
The Bangsamoro government steps up its efforts, setting a powerful example of how collaboration and determination can transform lives.
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