MANILA, Nov. 19 -- The city government will host a congress for children in street situations on Nov. 27-28 to intensify its campaign against child labor.

Mark Timbang, focal person for the City Social Welfare and Development Office, said in an interview on Wednesday that the event aims to strengthen child rights protection and amplify their voices.

"Poverty remains the root driver of child labor, forcing children into unsafe and exploitative work," Timbang said.

He noted that children under 15 must never work, while those 15 and above may only do so under parental supervision without compromising their education.

There are currently 87 registered street children in the city, he added, noting that the number may rise or fall based on ...