The Rotary Club of Puerto Princesa held a symposium on dangerous drugs and mental health that brought together youth leaders and government partners to address two of the most pressing issues affecting young people today.
Held in partnership with the Puerto Princesa Sangguniang Kabataan Federation, the Department of Education Division of Puerto Princesa, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)–Palawan, the activity gathered members of the Rotaract Club of Puerto Princesa, Rotaract Club of Puerto Princesa–Palawan State University, student government officers, and SK officials.
Guest of honor Congressman Gil Acosta Jr., representative of Palawan’s 3rd District, delivered an address that emphasized his support for programs that promote youth development, public safety, and anti-drug campaigns.
RC of Puerto Princesa also invited Atty. Joey Lina, former DILG Secretary and chairperson of the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB). He discussed the legal aspects of drug prevention and the responsibilities of young leaders in shaping a safer future.
Michelle Pagdrelanan, a certified psychological first aid responder, gave a talk on recognizing early signs of mental health concerns, while IO Marianne Jimenez of PDEA shared insights on how communities can help in anti-drug efforts.
“This collaboration of the Rotary Club of Puerto Princesa and other groups shows that protecting our youth is a shared responsibility,” club president Maria Cecilia Fresnillo said.
“We believe that when we engage our youth in conversations about mental health and the dangers of drug abuse, we give them the power to protect themselves and lead others toward safer, healthier choices,” she added.
She said the event reflects Rotary International’s peacebuilding and conflict prevention goals through education and community engagement.
