ILOILO – The Department of Education (DepEd) – Schools Division of Iloilo, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are set to sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to bolster the anti-drug campaign across public schools in the province.
This initiative aligns with the vision of Schools Division Superintendent Ernesto Servillon Jr., who advocates for a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal drugs in schools, following the recent recovery of a plastic sachet of suspected shabu from a 16-year-old male student in Janiuay town.
In a recent meeting, representatives from DepEd-Iloilo, PDEA-Region 6, and PNP discussed the implementation of programs aimed at preventing student involvement in illegal drug activities.
As part of the agreement, PDEA will conduct a “training of trainers” for selected teachers and school heads to ensure the widespread dissemination of drug prevention information.
Servillon explained, “The training will enable our educators to further instruct other teachers and students, promoting a strong anti-drug stance within our educational environments.”
The PNP plans to integrate a special module into the Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) subject for students from Grade 7 to Grade 10.
The module will cover various topics including prevention strategies and the detrimental health effects of drug use.
DepEd-Iloilo’s role in this collaboration will focus on scheduling the “training of trainers” and ensuring the seamless integration of the PNP’s module into the existing curriculum. The full implementation of these plans is targeted for October, post-MOA signing.
“We aim to begin in October because I see the urgency,” said Servillon.
He has also tasked the Division Drug Watch Committee with crafting a schedule for the training sessions to ensure a timely start.
Additionally, Servillon emphasized the importance of conducting any related law enforcement activities, such as buy-bust operations involving students, outside school premises to safeguard the mental health of the learners and avoid disrupting their education.
Since September 27, 2023, DepEd has ramped up its anti-drug initiatives by implementing a banner program titled “Bwas Damlag Amligan, Droga Likawan” as part of enhancing the National Drug Education Program, specifically the “Barkada Kontra Droga” project, which includes various activities designed to steer students away from drugs.
Servillon has also organized Drug Watch Committees in all secondary schools to monitor drug-related activities and coordinate with agencies like the PNP and PDEA to maintain a drug-free school environment./PN
