Taguig schools involve parents, students in the war vs. illegal drugs

As part of its campaign against illegal drugs in the city, the Taguig City government is actively reaching out to parents and students, through the collaborative efforts of schools and teachers, to eradicate the drug menace in the city through an intensified information campaign.

In coordination with the Department of Education Taguig-Pateros Division office (DepEd-TaPat), seminars on the negative impact of illegal drug abuse in schools are currently being undertaken in all 34 of the city’s public elementary and high schools.

Aside from students, teachers and parents are also encouraged to attend these seminars as they are also stakeholders in the fight against illegal drugs.

Moreover, Mayor Lani Cayetano believes that while proper information about the dangers of illegal drugs is an effective way to prevent drug abuse among schoolchildren, it is equally important for parents to raise their children properly and strengthen their resolve against the temptation of illegal substances.

“I believe in using positive discipline or a non-violent approach of raising children to promote an ideal environment that fosters self-discipline, sound moral values and high self-esteem. Having these three qualities will help children stay away from prohibited drugs,” she said.

In fact, since 2011, Mayor Lani said efforts to involve students in public schools have already been institutionalized through the Student Anti-Drug Action Center (SADAC), which is composed of student leaders from the Student/Pupil Government and the Supreme Student Government who serve as “confidantes” for their fellow students who are afraid to confess to teachers about their problems involving illegal drugs.

According to DepEd-TaPat Division Administration Officer George P. Tizon, the SADAC program was strengthened and really implemented only during Mayor Lani’s term.

“It is possible that some students are afraid to talk to teachers or some higher authority. With SADAC, we are encouraging those students who are dealing with such problems to confide to their fellow student to ease the tension,” said Tizon.

Tizon also said they are urging teachers to incorporate drug awareness in their lessons and to put up signages to remind students of the dangers of illegal drugs use.

With these efforts, Mayor Lani said that this is a step towards the thorough eradication of drug abuse in the city.

“This campaign in public schools is just a part of a bigger picture. I have always said that drugs are not welcome in Taguig and I want to impart that rule to our children,” said Mayor Lani. ###