MANILA (August 2) – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reminded employers, advertisers, content creators, and parents that children below 15 years old must first secure a DOLE work permit before participating in public entertainment or information, including television, theater, advertisements, social media, vlogs, and other online platforms.
The reminder was issued through Labor Advisory No. 12, Series of 2026, signed by Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino on July 31. The advisory clarifies that the provisions of Republic Act No. 9231, which protects working children, apply not only to traditional media but also to digital platforms.
Under the law, children below 15 are generally prohibited from working. However, exceptions are allowed if the child works directly under the sole responsibility of a parent or legal guardian, with only family members employed, or if the child’s participation in public entertainment or information is essential. In both cases, a DOLE work permit must first be obtained.
DOLE said the term “public entertainment or information” includes performances and productions distributed through television, radio, cinema, theater, print, the internet, streaming platforms, social media, digital advertisements, web series, podcasts, educational content, and other emerging media.
The department also emphasized that parents, legal guardians, employers, and other responsible parties must comply with the safeguards under Republic Act No. 9231, including restrictions on child labor, working hours, and measures that protect a child’s education, health, and overall welfare.
DOLE urged the public to report suspected violations of the law and its implementing rules to the department or other appropriate authorities for proper investigation and action.
