Dole Philippines raises the Red Card against child labor

In line with its dedication to continuously uplift the quality of life, Dole Philippines partnered with International Labor Organization in Lakas Sipa Para Sa Batang Malaya, a football clinic for 250 child laborers under the worldwide campaign Red Card to Child Labor.

Representing its usage in a game of football, a red card ejects a player after a commission of a serious offense. The ILO, a United Nations agency devoted to fight labor issues and promote labor standards, uses the sport as a platform to highlight the plight of child laborers and begin their quest for better lives.

Dole, with its advocacy of ensuring safety in communities, provided nourishment to the children and guests of the event in the form of Dole fruit bowls and juices.

“Dole is in the business of providing healthy fruit products. We bring health to where it is needed, and educate people in its importance. And who else is in more need of good nutrition than growing children, more so if they will be engaging in sports activities?,” said Dole Assistant Product Manager Angelo Gamboa.

The clinic was conducted by the Younghusbands Football Academy.

Phil Younghusband believes in the power of football to help these kids to move forward with much optimism.

“The way we can help (child labor victims) is to support their education and encourage them to play football in order to get them out of their situation. I think football is the perfect sport for these kids; it teaches a lot of life values. I’m very proud to be a part of this event and most especially this cause,” Phil said

The ILO has addressed the child labor situation through various ways including working with the parents in the communities and teaching them how to make soccer balls.

“We found out that what they produced were actually of good quality. A part of the deal with them is that their kids would have to go to school. (Through this), we are able to get the children out of child labor and gave their parents productive work,” said ILO Philippines Director Lawrence James Johnson.

To date, there are around three million child labor victims in the Philippines. Phil asserts that each Filipino should work towards fighting this injustice.

“Everyone can do their part whether it be notifying the government agencies if they see anything going on or stop buying products that encourage child labor. Everyone can help. I encourage everyone to help,” he urges.

Dole supports the nobility of the cause and is optimistic about the results the campaign could yield.

“The education and discipline that playing sports brings is important in growing up. We believe in the good values that children can learn from this initiative by the ILO,” added Angelo Gamboa. –MST Sports, Manila Standard Today