The national observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT) 2026 also provided an opportunity to reaffirm the direction of preventive education in the country as communities continue to respond to the evolving needs of young people. More than introducing the objectives of the three-day learning engagement, the opening message emphasized the broader role of life skills-based prevention in strengthening the capacity of local leaders to guide, support, and engage the youth through approaches that are practical, evidence-informed, and community-centered.
Addressing Local Youth Development Officers and partner institutions gathered in Cebu, DDB Chairperson - Secretary Oscar Valenzuela underscored that effective drug abuse prevention is built not only through sustained investment in young people, but also through the collective efforts of the families, schools, communities, local governments, and institutions that influence their growth and development. His message framed the training as part of the continuing effort to strengthen preventive education by preparing local leaders to help create environments where young people are better supported in making healthy and responsible choices.
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