By Nimfa Estrellado At Liga Fest 2024, SK Chairperson Angelica Alcala underscored the SK's commitment to empowering youth in the fight a...
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| At Liga Fest 2024, SK Chairperson Angelica Alcala underscored the SK's commitment to empowering youth in the fight against drug abuse. (Photo from SK of Mayao Crossing) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon – The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) of Mayao Crossing recently held "Lica Fest 2024", a youth-led initiative aimed at combating illegal drug use. The festival, themed "Mind Over Matter, Brake Free from Drugs," engaged and empowered local youth through a series of dynamic activities.
"Lica Fest 2024" showcased the dedication of Lucena's youth to promoting a drug-free lifestyle through various creative expressions. The festival featured powerful films, original songs, and a lively youth night celebration, all designed to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
This emphasis on drug prevention is particularly timely, as the Lucena City Police (PNP) are actively working to combat drug-related crime in the city. Recent reports indicate that the Lucena City PNP has been successful in apprehending several high-value individuals and confiscating significant amounts of illegal drugs, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the community.
In line with these efforts, the SK partnered with two key organizations in the fight against drugs: Barkada Kontra Droga (Abakada), focused on peer support and education, and Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo (KKDAT), which empowers youth to resist drugs and terrorism.
These partnerships fostered collaboration and amplified the festival's message. Eleven amateur filmmakers and nine young songwriters participated, showcasing their talents and contributing to the fight against drug abuse through their creative works.
Their films and songs poignantly illustrated the devastating impact of drug abuse on individuals and communities. One film, for instance, depicted the downfall of a promising student athlete due to addiction, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and driving home the consequences of drug use.
"We want to show that Lucena's youth are talented, creative, and capable of using their voices to address this critical issue," stated SK Chairperson Angelica Alcala, emphasizing the importance of youth engagement in combating this societal challenge.
Alcala highlighted the festival as a testament to the SK's ongoing commitment to drug abuse prevention and control. She explained that the SK understands that addressing this complex issue requires a sustained, multifaceted effort that goes beyond one-time events.
This commitment, Alcala noted, is further evidenced by initiatives like the Licaral Educational Assistance Distribution, a scholarship program currently supporting 102 students. Licaral provides financial assistance, mentorship, and skills training, offering alternative paths to success and steering youth away from drugs by providing them with opportunities and support.
In addition to Licaral the SK employs a comprehensive approach to combating drug use. This includes preventive education through information campaigns and workshops, equipping young people with knowledge and fostering critical thinking skills.
Furthermore, recognizing the importance of social connections, the SK fosters peer support networks. These networks encourage positive peer pressure and open discussions, providing safe spaces for young people to share their experiences and support one another.
Early intervention is also a key component of the SK's strategy. Working closely with families and schools, the SK identifies and assists at-risk youth, providing counseling and support to help them navigate challenging situations and make positive choices.
Moreover, the SK collaborates with law enforcement to report drug-related activities and ensure community safety, recognizing the importance of a collaborative approach to address this complex issue.
Alcala praised the youth's active involvement in SK programs, particularly the high participation rate in recent drug awareness and peer counseling workshops. This active participation, she noted, reflects the strong communication and collaboration between the SK and KKDAT. "Let us continue to serve our youth," Alcala urged, "for all our programs, projects, and activities are designed for their benefit."
Alcala concluded by encouraging continued youth support for the SK: "By working together with your Sangguniang Kabataan officials, we can build a stronger, safer community for everyone."
The festival culminated in a vibrant youth night, filled with music, dancing, and camaraderie, demonstrating the positive energy and collective spirit of Lucena's young people. The event showcased the youth's commitment to a drug-free future and highlighted the SK's dedication to the fight against drug abuse.
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