04/12/2025
CHO-HEPU conducts Anti-Drug Symposium in Simaya Integrated School.
On November 25, 2025, the City Health Office (CHO), through its Health Education and Promotion Officer III, Mhegan L. Dominguez, LPT, participated as a resource speaker during the Anti-Drug Symposium conducted at Simaya Integrated School.
The activity was organized by Mrs. Hazelle Jane A. Villarias, BKD Coordinator, with the approval of Ms. Nimfa A. Caballero, Simaya IS School Head, in support of the school’s continuing efforts to raise awareness on substance abuse and strengthen preventive education among its learners.
A total of 150 students from Grades 7 to 10 attended the symposium. The session aimed to deepen the learners’ understanding of the dangers of illegal drug use and to empower them to make informed choices that support their overall well-being.
The CHO representative discussed essential topics such as the physical, mental, social, and legal consequences of drug abuse; the risk factors that make young individuals vulnerable; and the protective behaviors that help build resilience.
Interactive discussions were facilitated to encourage the learners to reflect on real-life scenarios, peer pressure, and decision-making processes.
The resource speaker also emphasized the role of family, school, and community in creating a supportive environment that promotes a drug-free lifestyle. Students were given the opportunity to raise questions and share their insights, further enriching the learning experience.
The symposium concluded with a strong call for youth engagement in promoting healthy behaviors and becoming advocates of a drug-free community.
The CHO expressed its continued commitment to support schools and other stakeholders in delivering health education initiatives that contribute to safer and healthier communities.
Overall, the activity was well-received by the participants and contributed significantly to strengthening drug prevention awareness among the learners of Simaya Integrated School.
