ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY- The Department of Labor and Employment-Zamboanga Sibugay Field Office (ZSFO) was thrilled to announce the winners of the Rap and Flash Mob Challenge to commemorate the World Day Against Child Labor (WDACL) with the theme “Buong Bansa, Lahat ng Bata, Sama-Sama Para Sa #Batangmalaya!” on June 26, 2023 at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium, Capitol Hills, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Assistant Regional Director Imelda F. Gatinao, in her message, expressed DOLE 9’s gratitude for the collaboration and participation of more than 65 government agencies, non-government organizations, and private establishments to work for a better society for the welfare of child laborers. She also encouraged everyone to take action to finally eradicate child labor and protect children’s rights in order to achieve a child-labor-free Philippines.
The activities brought together talented individuals who showcased their creativity and enthusiasm to raise awareness and advocate for the eradication of child labor in the province.
The Rap Challenge displayed the power of words and music from local rappers who believe in the strength of rapping to communicate change.

The Rap Challenge was adjudged by DOLE 9 Asst. Regional Director Gatinao, Kim Arvi Flores, and Rowil Van Sanggayan. The winners received cash prizes and plaque of appreciation.
Dan Xee’s “Pahiram Bata/Batang Malaya” feat. JP emerged as the champion, while Lil-Gio’s “Kabataan” and Ch1ngbu’s “Unta” ft. Zan placed second and third, respectively.

On the other hand, the Flash Dance Mob Challenge allowed participants to show solidarity with child laborers using the art of dance. Participants from Zamboanga Sibugay’s various National High Schools choreographed energetic and inspiring routines that captured the essence of resilience and hope in the face of child labor.

After witnessing awe-inspiring performances, the judging panel, composed of DOLE-ZSFO Chief Elamsalih Ungad, Josephine Realiza, and Karlwin Liang Paitan, selected the following Batang Malaya Flash Dance Mob Challenge who received cash prize and plaque of recognition.

Siay National High School won first place, Diplahan National High School came in second and Imelda National High School placed in third.

Meanwhile, donors of the Project Angel Tree and its partner agencies including Ang Probinsyano Partylist and Jollibee Foods Corp.-Ipil Branch generously donated 5 kgs of rice, meals, snacks, educational materials and groceries to the 30 profiled child laborers in Ipil.

The Project Angel Tree is a component of the DOLE Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program that provides a variety of social services to child laborers and their families, including food, clothing, educational assistance, or school supplies, made available by sponsors or benefactors (‘angels’). It seeks to improve the economic and social circumstances of children in danger of becoming child laborers, child laborers, and their families, as well as expand the number of supporters and advocates for child labor prevention and elimination.

The program concluded with a message from DOLE-ZSFO Field Office Head Ungad, expressing DOLE’s heartfelt thanks for the solid partnership that played a role in the success of the province’s series of initiatives to abolish child labor. END//with reports from MVBMacrohon,ZSFO