11/08/2026
COMMUNITY EXTENSION SERVICE | SYMPOSIUM ON ILLEGAL DRUGS AND ITS EFFECTS
The Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), in partnership with the Supreme Student Council (SSC), successfully conducted the Symposium on Illegal Drugs and Its Effects on August 7, 2026, at Marilog High School of Agriculture, Brgy. Datu Salumay, Marilog District, Davao City, benefiting 100 Senior High School students.
The symposium aimed to strengthen the students’ awareness and understanding of the legal, social, psychological, and personal consequences of illegal drug use. It served as an avenue for students to gain relevant knowledge, develop informed decision-making skills, and recognize their important role in promoting a safe, healthy, and drug-free community.
The first session, R.A. 9165 – Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, was facilitated by Vai Tambuang and Allen Echavez of the College of Law. The session provided the students with an overview of Republic Act No. 9165 and discussed relevant provisions of Philippine laws concerning dangerous drugs, particularly those that young people should be aware of. The discussion emphasized legal responsibilities, the consequences of drug-related offenses, and the importance of making responsible choices.
The second session, The Effects of Illegal Drugs, was facilitated by Mr. Steve Hampp Indino, BS Psychology Faculty. The session focused on the physical, psychological, emotional, social, and educational effects of illegal drug use. It emphasized how substance abuse can affect an individual’s well-being, relationships, academic performance, and future, while encouraging students to practice healthy coping strategies and make choices that contribute to their personal growth and well-being.
Since 2003, Brgy. Datu Salumay has been one of the adopted communities of Jose Maria College Foundation, Inc. through its Community Extension and Student Development Programs. The continued engagement with the community reflects the institution’s commitment to extending meaningful educational initiatives beyond the campus and contributing to the holistic development and empowerment of young people.
The activity also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by promoting awareness and prevention of substance abuse; SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing students with relevant learning opportunities beyond the classroom; and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, by strengthening awareness of laws, responsible citizenship, and the importance of building safe and peaceful communities.
Through initiatives such as this, OSAS and SSC continue to support the holistic development of students while strengthening meaningful partnerships with adopted communities. By using students’ free time for purposeful learning and community engagement, the symposium provided an opportunity to educate, empower, and inspire young people to make responsible choices toward a healthier, safer, and more productive future.