The Taguig City University – Office of the Student Affairs (OSAS), in collaboration with the Taguig Anti-Drug Abuse Office (TADAO), organized a drug prevention seminar on Wednesday, December 11. The seminar aimed to inspire TCU students to become advocates for a drug-free community.

With the theme “Empowering a Drug-Free Campus: Strategies for a Clean and Healthy Community,” the event gathered around 1,000 students to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal drugs through engaging and informative lectures.

Councilor Edgar Baptista emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating: “It is crucial we provide our students with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions, emphasizing the importance of responsibility.”

CHO Anti-Drug Coordinator Dra. Dulce Manigbas delivered an in-depth lecture on the harmful effects of illegal drugs. She discussed the classification of illegal substances, factors that lead to drug use, and the physical and mental toll on users. TADAO personnel Ms. Kay Ann Poyaoan also presented Taguig’s ongoing programs and initiatives to address drug-related challenges in the city.

Student attendees expressed their appreciation for the efforts of the local government. Eleana Avila, a 3rd-year BS Education student, shared her gratitude: “Very grateful to Mayor Lani for spearheading these kinds of projects and programs.”

Kemji Calubag, a 1st-year BS Psychology student, reflected on the importance of steering clear of illegal drugs: “Wala po siyang magandang maidudulot sa buhay natin and masisira lang yung future natin. Kagaya nga po sinabi kanina, ‘be the change,’ so we should always remind ourselves na baguhin natin yung sarili natin, baguhin natin yung society wherein wala pong mga adik na youth o tao kung saan man tayo nakatira o naroroon.”