A total of 200 transportation network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers participated in the series of training sessions on Basic Anti-Drug Education, Road Safety and Traffic Rules and Regulations as the “Riders Against Drugs’’ motorcade marked the June 26 World Drug Day celebration, according to the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB).
In collaboration with the Quezon City government and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the DDB led the campaign to promote collective action between the transport group and the government, advocating for healthy, safe transportation and the secure delivery of services free from the harms of dangerous drugs.
In this year’s celebration, the DDB, PDEA, TNVS and the Quezon City government hosted the “Riders Against Drugs’’ motorcade that aims to foster the sense of “community and collective action’’ against drug abuse.
The DDB stated that the seminar focused on two critical areas namely the basic anti-drug education and road safety traffic rules and regulations.
Further, the DDB explained that these two topics aim to raise awareness and understanding of drug-related concerts and ensure that the drivers are well-informed of “maintaining road safety and adhering to traffic rules’’ among the participants.
This year’s theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention'', is a call to adopt an imperative, scientific, and evidence-based approach that prioritizes prevention and treatment.
The DDB stressed that the campaign recognizes that effective drug policies must be rooted in science, research with full respect for human rights and a deep understanding of the social, economic, and health implications of drug use.
Meanwhile, the DDB is set to assume the chairmanship of the 45th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Senior Officials on Drug Matters (ASOD) in September 2024.
“This prestigious role highlights the Board's commitment to combating drug-related issues across Southeast Asia and represents a significant responsibility in leading regional efforts and initiatives,’’ the DDB said.
Recognizing the significance of this responsibility, the DDB organized a comprehensive seminar-workshop focused on protocols, social graces and etiquette for the employees of the board, in partnership with the Foreign Service Institute (FSI).
“The three-day event included in-depth lectures and a final simulation exercise. These sessions aimed to prepare the staff for the various formalities and diplomatic engagements, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle the complexities of hosting international delegates and managing high-profile events,’’ the DDB stated.