By: Janine Ericka R. Paneda
The University of the Cordilleras in collaboration with the Department of the Interior and Local Government–Cordillera Administrative Region (DILG-CAR), and other government agencies, implemented the Youth’s Choice: “A Drug-Free Life” Engagement Program on November 26, 2025, at the UC Theater.
The half-day program brought together students, educators, and school personnel for an awareness and capacity-building initiative that highlighted the government’s commitment to a health-focused, community-based, and youth-driven approach to drug prevention. It sought to deepen students’ understanding of the physical, psychological, social, and legal consequences of illegal drug use while strengthening youth participation in building safer and healthier communities aligned with the Bagong Pilipinas governance agenda, through sessions covering Republic Act No. 9165, the Philippine Anti-Illegal Drugs System, the health impacts of drug use, and the advocacy and operational initiatives of partner agencies, complemented by an open forum facilitated by resource speakers from DILG, PDEA, PRO-CAR, and the health sector to address concerns and clarify ongoing programs.
This initiative directly supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being by promoting drug prevention through health-centered education, awareness, and early intervention, helping protect young people from the harmful effects of illegal drug use. It also contributes to SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by strengthening inter-agency collaboration, fostering youth participation, and reinforcing community-based approaches that promote safer, more resilient, and law-abiding communities.
The activity with reinforcing the sustained commitment of the ICAD Advocacy Cluster and DILG-CAR to empower the youth and promote community-led anti-illegal drug initiatives across the region.
