The Department of Health (DOH) spearheaded the celebration of Drug Abuse Prevention and Control (DAPC) Week in an effort to address the pressing issue of drug abuse among youth.
The week-long event kicked off on Monday, Nov. 20 in Mati City, with the gathering of about 200 students. The event aimed at fostering awareness and providing alternatives to substance abuse.
Medical Officer Maya Zosa led an informative session on the harms of substance abuse, engaging students in a well-informed discourse.
The DOH highlighted various interactive booths that were set up to engage students in a fun and educational manner.
The Anatomy Board visually illustrated the detrimental effects of drug abuse on the human body, while the Anti-Bored Billboard featured a spin wheel suggesting engaging and bisyo-free activities.
A “Say No to Drugs” memory game and a poster-making contest allowed students to showcase their creativity and commitment to a drug-free lifestyle, it added.
The DOH highlighted the “Quit Canteen,” providing students an opportunity to socialize with friends and have meaningful conversations with peer counselors, fostering a supportive space for discussing thoughts and concerns about drug abuse.
Adding a creative twist to the proceedings, five different schools participated in the “Kakaibang High Dance Battle,” encouraging students to explore healthier ways of self-expression and coping, said the DOH.
Moreover, to ensure that the positive momentum extends beyond the event, all student participants received a self-care kit containing fidget toys, a painting by the numbers kit, and the United States Agency for International Development's RenewHealth Mind and Body Mental Health Booklet.
The DOH emphasized that these tools are designed to empower students to continue exploring and adapting healthier coping mechanisms in their daily lives.
It pointed out that the “Biyaheng Kalusugan for Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week” in Mati City stands as a successful model of collaborative efforts to promote a drug-free and healthier future for the youth.
It also emphasized the collaboration of the event, highlighting partnerships with Mati City government, CHD Davao, Mati National Comprehensive High School, and key allies such as the Department of Education Schools Division Office Mati City, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.