The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reminded parents, guardians and employers to comply with safeguards for children below 15 who participate in entertainment or information activities.
Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino issued Labor Advisory No. 12, Series of 2026, to reinforce the protection of young performers and content creators under existing child labor laws.
The advisory covered children appearing in films, television and radio programs, theater productions, advertisements, social media posts, vlogs, podcasts, streaming content and other digital productions.
Under Republic Act No. 9231, children below 15 generally cannot be employed unless they work under the direct responsibility of a parent or legal guardian, or their participation in public entertainment or information is considered essential.
Employers must secure a working child permit from DOLE before engaging a minor whose participation falls within the law’s coverage.
The department said the permit requirement also applies to children involved in online content creation when the activity qualifies as public entertainment or information.
DOLE added that the law covers both traditional and emerging media, including broadcast, cinema, cable, satellite, digital platforms and educational or entertainment content.
When a child works under the direct supervision of a parent or legal guardian, the adult remains accountable for compliance with rules protecting the child’s safety, welfare, working conditions and rights.
