By Karren Jay G. Asgar

SO II Ive Marie H. Dumayas (2nd from right) and IO I Darlene Grace Cainday (3rd from right), the resource speakers, pose for a photo with CPU ROTC Coordinator, 2LT Artemio I. Romingquit (2nd from left); CPU NSTP Coordinator, Prof. Annalie D. Gilongos (3rd from left); and CPU CWTS Coordinator, Mrs. Ma. Leen C. Gahum (right) following the presentation of certificates of appreciation.

On August 16, 2025, the Central Philippine University – National Service Training Program (CPU-NSTP) conducted a plenary session on Drug Education at the Rose Memorial Auditorium, with students from both the Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) and Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs in attendance.

The program opened with community dancing and singing, followed by a short devotional led by Ms. Charissa June G. Deocampo. A message from Gideons International was also shared, after which participants sang the Philippine National Anthem and the CPU Alma Mater Song.

ROTC Coordinator 2LT Artemio I. Romingquit (RET) gave the opening remarks, while CWTS Coordinator Mrs. Ma. Leen C. Gahum introduced the resource speakers. Representatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Iloilo then delivered the main lectures. SO II Ive Marie H. Dumayas discussed Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the “Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002,” while IO I Darlene Grace Cainday talked about the classification and ill effects of illegal drugs.

In their discussions, Dumayas underscored the legal framework of the Dangerous Drugs Act, explaining the provisions, penalties, and preventive measures against substance abuse. Cainday, on the other hand, highlighted the harmful physical, psychological, and social consequences of drug use, reminding students of the risks not only to individual health but also to families and communities. Both speakers stressed the crucial role of the youth in prevention and awareness campaigns, encouraging students to be proactive advocates of a drug-free lifestyle.

Certificates of appreciation and tokens were awarded to the speakers by Prof. Annalie D. Gilongos, 2LT Artemio I. Romingquit (RET), and Mrs. Ma. Leen C. Gahum. The program also featured a dance performance, followed by announcements. Ms. Chilou P. Batoon led the closing prayer, while Mrs. Hannah Lee S. Canlas served as the master of ceremony.

The plenary session reaffirmed CPU-NSTP’s commitment to promoting drug education and fostering a safe, healthy, and responsible community. By empowering students with knowledge and awareness, the University strengthens its stand as a proactive partner in the fight against illegal drugs.