US gathers experts to curb drug demand in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — The United States government, through the Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, has gathered international experts to train local government representatives in developing strategies to mitigate the impact of and reduce demand for illegal drugs in the Philippines.

Some 120 delegates representing 19 local government units attended the 5th National Conference of Anti-Drug Abuse Coalitions with the theme “Strengthening Prevention Strategies for Drug Free Communities” from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, organized by the US embassy in the Philippines, Association of Anti-Drug Abuse Coalitions of the Philippines Inc. (AADAC) and the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America in Makati City.

During the conference, international experts trained participants in conducting community assessments and developing sustainable and comprehensive strategies for anti-drug abuse coalition activities.

Two certified youth trainers led sessions for 60 youth leaders on countering stigma associated with drug use, promoting mental health and strengthening youth engagement in anti-drug abuse coalitions.

AADAC also awarded 10 local chief executives for their grassroots efforts in strengthening multi-sectoral cooperation to address illegal drugs and allocating financial support for AADAC programs in their communities.

The 10 officials named “champions in anti-drug abuse coalition work” were Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Angono Municipal Vice Mayor Gerardo Calderon, Calamba City Vice Mayor Angelito Lazaro Jr., Cavite City Mayor Denver Chua, Muntinlupa City Mayor Rozzano Rufino Biazon, Tanay Municipal Mayor Rafael Tanjuatco, Barangay Caticlan chairman Ralf Tolosa, Aklan Gov. Jose Enrique Miraflores, Barangay Poblacion Makati chairman Benhur Cruz and Makati City Mayor Abby Binay.

“Coalitions carry out vital work, such as educating and engaging the youth, volunteering time to holistic care and ensuring the availability of mental health support, often with very little resources,” International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Manila director Kelia Cummins said.

“This is why cooperation among coalitions is so essential – we are stronger together. We can pool not only financial resources, but also knowledge, time and collective experience to ensure that our communities are safe, healthy and productive,” Cummins said.

AADAC is an umbrella association of 27 community anti-drug abuse coalitions located across the Philippines.