TABUK CITY, Kalinga – On July 22, 2022, a Youth Empowerment and Drug Symposium, a special initiative run yearly by the city government, was held for young people in barangay Gobgob, including those from the two furthest sitios, Talac and Tangbay, organized by CBACRO, Tabuk City Police Office, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
Police Senior Master Sergeant Alvius Cordero focused on leadership relationships and spiritual upliftment in his speech, while Atty. Samuel Poking Jr. of the PDEA discussed the Comprehensive and Dangerous Drugs Act, also known as Republic Act 9165, citing the negative repercussions of using and even trading dangerous drugs.
Aurora Amilig, the city’s public information officer, also urged the youth to make every effort and muster the courage to try out new experiences, especially in the current situation where a young people have fewer social interactions thus have become less confident and sometimes indecisive.
She said that because of the pandemic, students are unable to attend face-to-face classes, so they must find ways to develop their abilities, expand upon their visions, and develop their ability to adapt to challenging and constantly-changing circumstances.
“Determine your purpose. Young as you are, know who you are, adu iti purpose iti biyag yo, idyay kayo nga agfocus. Don’t waste your time and your lives by following the wrong path and Don’t do drugs,” the city Information Officer added.
By Mae-Ann Padillla