TO increase student awareness of the dangers of illegal drugs, smoking, and hazing, the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) organized a two-day seminar from April 11-12, 2023, at the Multi-Purpose Hall.

PSG Reynold Aguirre discussed the laws surrounding drug use and the government efforts to address the drug problem through the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

He said, based on interviews with people who used drugs (PWUDs), most people are lured into the addiction due to peer pressure, curiosity, stress, and anger. He said there are also different established programs that seek to support drug users, such as the Kabataan Kontra Droga, treatment and rehabilitation centers, and community work programs.

Atty. John R. Jacome, an HR Manager, Legal Management department professor, and alumnus of SBCA, discussed the Anti-hazing law and the grievous consequences of hazing which, in worst cases, may result in death. If found guilty, the perpetrator will be arrested. He then displayed pictures of what happens before and after an individual joins a fraternity or sorority.

In her closing remarks, Ms. Roma Wynn Sedo, the Student Executive Council (SEC), urged the students to take part in the extracurricular activities offered on campus and to ask for help when necessary.

The seminar was hosted by Sean Sison (I-BSA) and Sharmainne Villareal (I-BSA).

Voices against drugs, smoking, and hazing

THE BEDAN HERALD interviewed Kim Auditor (III-BACMS) and Danelle Aguila (II-BACMS) about their thoughts on the seminar.

Auditor said issues on drug use, hazing, and smoking are very timely, and students, in particular, need to understand that hazing involves bullying or torturing other students who have been “recruited” into fraternities and sororities.

After seeing projected images of those who had been affected by drug use, smoking, and hazing, Aguila said that her main takeaway from the seminar was the need for every Bedan student to be aware of the risks and negative effects that these behaviors can have on one’s long-term mental health and well-being.