Aeta kids rescued from harsh labor in Isabela

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) rescued at least six Aeta children and filed charges of human trafficking and violation of anti-child labor law against the owner of a junk shop who recruited and allegedly maltreated the children.

Amelia Salvador of Barangay Antonino is detained in Cauayan City.

A concerned citizen reported the plight of the Aeta children, who were recruited from San Marcelino, Zambales, Gladys Ragasa, municipal social welfare officer, said.

The Aeta children, six of them between nine to 12 years old were made to wash used jute sacks in the irrigation canal all day.

The natives claimed a certain Connie Fredo, who promised them employment in a Bulacan duck farm, recruited them.