MALABON City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval has signed a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office–National Capital Region (DSWD–NCR) for the implementation of the Strategic Helpdesks for Information, Education, Livelihood, and Other Developmental Interventions, or SHIELD Against Child Labor Program in the city.

Joining the mayor during the signing was DSWD–NCR Assistant Regional Director for Operations Bienvenido Barbosa Jr., marking what Sandoval described as an important step toward strengthening child protection initiatives in Malabon.

The SHIELD Against Child Labor Program aims to enhance services that ensure the safety and protection of children from exploitative and hazardous labor. Central to the initiative is the establishment of Strategic Help Desks for Information, Education, and Other Developmental Interventions across the city.

These help desks will serve as accessible support centers, providing guidance, intervention, and referrals for children and families at risk.

Sandoval emphasized that the partnership underscores the city government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of young Malabueños. She also expressed gratitude to the DSWD, the City Social Welfare and Development Department, and the Public Employment Service Office for their collaboration in ensuring the effective rollout of the program.

The mayor reaffirmed that the local government will continue to develop programs and support initiatives aimed at promoting the safety, welfare, and holistic development of children in Malabon.

The SHIELD initiative is part of broader efforts to combat child labor and uphold children’s rights in the community.