DEPED LAPU-LAPU SYMPOSIUM

Caubian students briefed on illegal drugs, cyberpornography

NEARLY 200 high school students on Caubian Island, Lapu-Lapu City, attended a symposium on child protection policy, drug awareness and local government unit (LGU) support to education.

Caubian Island is located east of Olango Island and Lapu-Lapu City mainland with around 45 minutes of sea travel from the mainland. The island, measuring a hectare, is home to around 300 fisherfolk families.

The city’s smallest barangay has their own elementary and high school building, a gymnasium and a barangay hall.

Though there were no reported cases of illegal drug activity, cyberpornography and child abuse in the area, they were included in the Department of Education’s (DepEd) initiative on drug awareness and child protection policy.

Barangay Caubian was the 25th and last barangay to host the symposium last April 2.

Suspended Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Paz Radaza was among the invited guests led by the City Schools Division superintendent Dr. Marilyn Andales.

Radaza encouraged the students to be vigilant against any illicit activities like illegal drugs and cyberpornography. Radaza brought snacks and candies for the participants.

Some students on the island also showed their talents by singing the rap song High School Days using homemade drums made of plastic gallons as their instruments.

Lawyer Maricar Roniez, DepEd legal counsel, taught the students about child protection policy, cyberpornography and anti-bullying, while DepEd Administrative Officer Ronald Ferrer briefed the students about illegal drug awareness.

“This is our initiative for the youth to be aware and never use illegal drugs, be aware of cyberpornography and the child protection policy,” Andales said.

Caubian Barangay Captain Jackson Matbagon expressed his gratitude to  the DepEd officials and Mayor Radaza for the support and for visiting the island.

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