USTP Jasaan Strengthens Student Awareness through Anti-Drug Symposium
By Anarose Marie Otico and James Ryan Lindongan, The Cache Publication, USTP Jasaan
Share:
The Office of the Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental (USTP Jasaan) conducted the Drug Awareness Symposium 2025 on November 28, 2025, with the theme “Building a Drug-Free Institution: Awareness, Prevention, and Action.” The event gathered students from all academic programs to strengthen their understanding of drug-related issues and promote a safer school environment.
The symposium featured two distinguished speakers whose presentations were designed to be both informative and impact-driven.The first session, “Strengthening Community-Based Preventive Strategies Against Illegal Drugs” was delivered by Carlo Joeliandro Ellezo,RPm, Head of the Local Anti-Drug Abuse Council (LADAC) of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Jasaan. He presented a comprehensive discussion on foundational drug awareness, covering the classification and physiological effects of commonly abused substances such as stimulants, depressants, and hallucinogens. He also emphasized the severe medical, legal, and social consequences of illegal drug use, citing alarming statistics on overdose cases and drug-related incarceration. To further enhance hazard awareness, he discussed the dangerous and unregulated processes involved in manufacturing illicit drugs in clandestine laboratories, highlighting the contamination risks and volatile chemical reactions that pose threats to both users and communities.
The second session centered on “Law Enforcement Approaches and Youth Protection in Anti-Drug Campaigns” presented by PSSg. Lehzen Quessa P. Racho of the Jasaan Municipal Police Station. She outlined current enforcement strategies and reminded students of their roles in promoting a drug-free community. PSSg. Racho underscored the harsh realities faced by individuals who fall into drug dependence, sharing compelling case studies that illustrated the resulting financial burdens, legal complications, and loss of personal freedom.
She stressed that these consequences can deeply affect one’s future, relationships, and overall well-being.
An open question-and-answer forum followed, giving students the opportunity to raise concerns and clarify important points related to drug awareness, prevention, and enforcement.
Simultaneously, the campus conducted random drug testing, supervised by the campus nurse together with a DOH-accredited drug testing provider, ensuring compliance with health protocols and further reinforcing the institution’s commitment to drug-free education.
This symposium reflects the commitment of USTP to imposing welfare and safety among the students through raising awareness and attaining a shared commitment to upholding a healthy, responsible, and drug-free campus community.
Follow us:
Contact us:
+63(88)857-1738 local 1118
[email protected]
