MANILA, Aug. 1 (Xinhua) -- The Philippine government issued a labor advisory to ensure the protection of children under 15 years old in public entertainment, local official media reported on Saturday.
According to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the agency has reminded parents and guardians to ensure the protection of children under 15 years of age participating in public entertainment or information activities via film, theater, radio, television, and other forms of media.
DOLE said the measure aims to protect children's rights and interests when they participate in performances or content production in these entertainment fields. Parents or legal guardians are accountable under the law if their child works in such activities. A working child permit is required when the child or activity falls under DOLE guidelines.
The new guidelines aim to address gaps in old Philippine laws designed for TV and film, but not digital platforms. On today's social media platforms, children often spend long hours on camera to produce content, which has raised concerns over excessive work, privacy risks, online bullying and unclear pay. ■