National Bureau of Investigation agents rescued 10 minors on Thursday after a raid on a printing press in Barangay Potrero in Malabon City that was allegedly being run like a sweatshop.
The 10 were among 30 workers rescued by the NBI Anti-Human Trafficking Division, GMA News’ John Consulta reported on “Saksi.”
The raiding team found potentially toxic chemicals, and a fire exit blocked by electric wires, the report said.
The NBI also found the establishment could not present the proper permits.
“Maaring nagtitipid ang may-ari. Hindi na dinadaan sa ganitong proseso. Basta kailangan ng trabahaor ora-orada, biodata lang ang katapat,” said NBI-AHTRAD head lawyer Eric Nuqui.
Investigation showed the workers had 12-hour workdays, and were exposed to chemicals. They were paid P200 a day, less than half the minimum wage in Metro Manila.
Workers admitted they accepted the terms of the job because of poverty.
“Mahirap ang buhay galing kasi ako probinsya,” said one.
Nuqui said they are preparing charges against the owners of the company for violation of Republic Act 9231, which penalizes the use of child labor.
He also said they are looking into whether they can charge the owners as well for human trafficking. — Joel Locsin/JDS, GMA News
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