Over 2,000 youth leaders and volunteers from the different towns and cities of Ilocos Norte showed their support to the national government’s efforts to prevent drug addiction in the country through a civic parade held in this city on Thursday.

Organized by the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) led by Undersecretary Earl Saavedra and in partnership with the city government of Batac, the parade on Washington Street is in line with this year’s celebration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

In a statement, the DDB said the celebration placed young Filipinos at the heart of the national movement against illegal drugs, recognizing their key role in prevention efforts and in promoting a safe and healthy lifestyle.

“As future leaders of the nation, the youth play a crucial part in building a more drug-resilient society. The DDB remains steadfast in its commitment to support and empower them, helping shape a stronger, more resilient future,” the agency said.

Backing this move, the Ilocos Norte Youth Development Office and the Provincial Education Office, represented by Willie Jake Sib-at as officer-in-charge and youth development officer of the province, told the Philippine News Agency that they have proposed a comprehensive adolescent health program that covers the mental reproductive, sexual and physical health of young Ilocanos.

“We are working on this and we hope to incorporate the anti-drug campaign in our proposal,” he said.

The officers and members of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) of Ilocos Norte have also affirmed their dedication to proactive youth engagement, public health awareness, and grassroots-driven change to prevent drug abuse.

Through sustained collaboration with national and local partners, the province’s young leaders and development workers vowed to continue spreading awareness on safe and healthy communities. (PNA)