Mga bata sa kapit-os: a phenomenological inquiry on the travails of children working for a living

Abstract

This phenomenological study aimed to elucidate the daily experiences and underlying motivations for early child labor engagement among children in Sta. Maria Public Market. Utilizing in-depth face-to-face interviews with seven informants, the research employed thematic content analysis, encompassing data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The analysis revealed two primary motivators for child labor: familial love and the necessity for survival. Additionally, the study uncovered significant challenges faced by these child laborers, including diminished self-esteem and morale, the burden of family sustenance, and individual physical and emotional struggles. These children confront the dual challenges of fulfilling their roles as laborers and as learners in school, navigating complex social and familial expectations. The findings shed light on the multifaceted nature of child labor and underscore the need for targeted interventions. The study advocates for comprehensive measures to address, and potentially eradicate, child labor within the community, emphasizing the importance of holistic support systems for child laborers in balancing their educational needs and familial responsibilities.