DOLE shuts down 2 clubs, rescues 4 teenage girls

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said it has closed down a disco club in Parañaque City and a KTV bar in Cebu City for employing minors.

Four teenage girls were rescued by joint forces of DOLE, police and local government authorities at the X-Factor Disco Theater in Parañaque City while two minors were rescued at the Jaguar KTV in Kasambugan, Cebu City.

“The closure of these prostitutions dens victimizing minors is part of our intensified campaign against human trafficking,” Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said.

Charges of violation of Republic Act 9208 or the Anti-Human Trafficking Act were already filed against Angelino Delfin, owner of X-Factor Disco Theater.

On the other hand, Jaguar KTV operators were charged by the International Justice Mission and the Department of Social Welfare and Development of violation of R.A. 7610, or the Special Protection for Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, and R.A. 9231, or the Anti-Child Labor law.

“DOLE has proved that these establishments hired minors and were involved in prostitution and lewd shows,” Baldoz said.

“Let this be a warning to similar establishments employing and abusing women, especially minors, that we will not permit such illegal acts,” the Labor chief added. –Rommel C. Lontayao, Manila Times