ITOGON – On April 14, 2026, the Sangguniang Bayan held its Public Hearing regarding the proposed ordinances titled, “Ordinance regulating the entry and employment of migrant workers engaged in mining activities within the Municipality of Itogon, Province of Benguet, and providing penalties for violations thereof” and “Ordinance prohibiting Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) in the Municipality of Itogon, Benguet, institutionalizing programs for its prevention and eradication and providing penalties thereof, thereafter establishing a supportive environment for child victims, and providing funds thereof”.
The first proposed measure seeks to address the growing number of non-resident workers in Itogon’s mining operations. Under the draft, migrant workers, defined as those without permanent residency in Itogon, would be required to secure a valid National Police Clearance (NPC) issued by the Philippine National Police; Barangay Clearance from the worker’s place of origin or permanent residence; a medical certificate issued by the Municipal Health Office or any Government-accredited clinic certifying that the applicant is physically fit to perform mining-related work; a valid government-issued identification card for proper identification and verification; a working permit issued by the Barangay where the mining activity or employment will take place; and registration with the municipal government, through the Municipal Public Employment Service Office (PESO) or any designated municipal office for proper documentation and monitoring. Violations would carry fines ranging from P1,500 to P2,500 and disqualification or prohibition from engaging in mining-related work or employment within the Municipality.
During the hearing, mining sector representatives raised concerns about the registration process through the respective associations, also suggesting the addition of drug testing to the medical requirements of migrant workers.
The second ordinance aligns with Republic Act No. 11930 (Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act). It explicitly prohibits producing, distributing, or possessing child sexual abuse materials, as well
as engaging in online sexual exploitation of minors. The proposal mandates the creation of a municipal OSAEC/CSAEM task force to lead prevention campaigns, train barangay officials on cyber safety, and establish referral systems for victims, including psychological support and legal aid.
Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) Representative Jane M. Mercado urgently suggested the construction of the Drop-in Center, which refers to a safe, child-friendly, and properly supervised facility.
Inputs that arose during the public hearing will be deliberated by the Council, ensuring that they do not conflict with existing laws, ordinances, and development plans. The public hearing on migrant workers engaged in mining activities is still in its first hearing, while the second ordinance on OSAEC-CSAEM has already been consulted twice.
As part of the consultation process, Punong Barangays and Kagawads, Mining Stakeholders, Social Welfare Officers, and Constituents attended the hearing at the Municipal Gymnasium in Poblacion, Itogon.
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