Placing equal importance on drug demand reduction alongside other key components of the national anti-drug strategy, the Dangerous Drugs Board convened a consultative meeting to review existing initiatives on preventive education and advocacy awareness. DDB Permanent Member and Chairperson of the Drug Demand Reduction Committee – Undersecretary Abad Osit presided over the meeting.
Recognizing the vulnerability of the youth, the discussions emphasized the importance of family and school-based approaches to prevention. In line with Sections 41, 42, and 43 of Republic Act No. 9165, relevant national government agencies highlighted the need to reinforce support systems that protect and guide young people. These legal provisions stress that drug prevention is a shared responsibility—rooted in the home, reinforced in schools, and supported by continuous, values-driven education.
To keep prevention efforts responsive and impactful, the DDB ensures that campaign messages are inclusive, respectful, and free from stereotypes or stigma, reflecting the government’s compassionate approach that fosters understanding and inclusivity while acknowledging the complex nature of addiction.
Through the active involvement of key government stakeholders, the drug demand reduction strategy is reinforced by principles of shared responsibility, early intervention, and inclusive support for those most at risk.
