DIF Records 18 Minors Working on Cancun Streets

Cancun, Quintana Roo — Authorities have detected 18 minors working on the streets of Cancun so far this year, according to the municipal DIF (Family Development System). While none of the cases involve criminal labor exploitation, the findings come as a reminder on the International Day Against Child Labor.

Marisol Sendo Rodriguez, head of DIF in Benito Juarez municipality, said the children are helping their families generate income.

“From January to date, we have identified 18 minors at risk of child labor. These cases are investigated, and the children are supporting their family economy,” she said.

Last week, a woman from Chiapas was assisted by municipal authorities along with her two children. Sendo noted that these individuals have been found outside pharmacies and convenience stores.

“They are also on roadways, such as in front of Plaza Las Americas, and at the intersection of Kohunlich and Andres Quintana Roo, which leads to Plaza Outlet,” she added.

The minors are located in two ways: through municipal government patrols at major intersections and known hotspots, or via reports to the 911 emergency number.

When minors are found, municipal workers take the accompanying adults to the Secretariat of Public Safety and Transit to verify they are relatives. If confirmed, a team checks whether the children attend school and receive food or health support, and follows up on their situation.

Sendo said the program currently supports 238 families with various needs, from enrolling children in school to providing food aid. In some cases, children lacked birth certificates, and the program helped obtain them.