Preventing Child Exploitation
In the beautiful beachside town of Moalboal, the streets are not just a place to play — they’re a place to work.
Young children like Arno*, aged just 7, walk through restaurants, bars and beaches late at night, selling handmade souvenirs to tourists.
To many visitors, it can seem harmless.
But behind this is a much harder reality.
Children working in these environments face real risks — including exploitation, abuse, and violence. Many are missing school, and their futures are shaped by poverty instead of opportunity.
In busy tourist areas like Panagsama Beach and White Beach, children regularly sell items like shell bracelets and necklaces to help their families survive.
Poverty is driving this cycle — and children are paying the price.
What We Do
Through the PROTECT project, Mercy Works partners with a local organisation to address the root causes of child exploitation.
Supporting families to build stable incomes
Providing skills training and microloans so parents can start small businesses and support their families without relying on their children to work.
Protecting children from harm
Working with families and communities to reduce the risks of exploitation, abuse and unsafe environments.
Raising awareness and strengthening communities
Helping parents, children and local leaders understand child protection risks — and how to respond.
Keeping children in school
Supporting families so children can return to education and build a safer future.
Why This Matters
As Andrew Lowry, Mercy Works Head of Programs, explains:
“Poverty is the main reason why families send their children to work. This, in turn, denies them access to education and the skills needed to break free from the chains of poverty.
If we can improve the earning capacity of parents, we can get vulnerable children off the streets and back into the classroom.”
The Impact
This work is already reaching communities:
- Over 1,000 people engaged through awareness and community activities
- Families gaining the knowledge and support to better protect their children
- Stronger local networks responding to risks of trafficking and exploitation
But many children are still at risk.
A Future Worth Protecting
When families have stable incomes, children don’t need to work at night.
They can go to school.
They can be safe.
They can simply be children.
Your generosity can help change this.