Strengthening Communities Through Preventive Education: Argao Hosts Drug Abuse Prevention Lecture
- Kit Coronel
- Feb 10
- 2 min read
Taloot, Argao, Cebu — February 9, 2026. The fight against illegal drugs took center stage in Barangay Taloot as community leaders, health workers, and educators gathered for a Drug Abuse Prevention Education (D.A.P.E.) Lecture held at The Psalms, Fuentes Building, Taloot, Argao. The activity, organized upon the request of Irene F. Perry, brought together 31 participants, including the barangay captain, councilors, barangay health workers (BHWs), tanods, teachers, and officers of B‑Force 568 – Sibonga Command.
A Collective Effort
The lecture underscored the importance of preventive education and community involvement (PECI) in curbing substance abuse. With 16 male and 15 female participants, the event reflected the diverse sectors committed to building a drug‑free community.
Expert Voices
The session was led by seasoned lecturers from Blasert Force 568 Inc. and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region VII:
Achilles B. Coronel (PDEA7‑CSO2‑2025‑27‑001)
Intelligence Officer I Noem Rosillosa
Intelligence Officer II Angelou Atillo
They tackled critical topics such as:
Drug use in the Philippines and its impact on the brain
Classification of psychoactive substances
Common and emerging drugs in the country
Salient provisions of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002)
Prevention strategies and the role of communities in sustaining drug‑free environments
Participants also toured the PDEA Virtual Gallery, which provided visual reinforcement of the dangers posed by illegal drugs.
Looking Ahead
The lecture paved the way for a planned lecturers’ training in April 2026 for B‑Force 568 members, barangay health workers, tanods, and public school teachers. This upcoming initiative aims to equip grassroots leaders with the skills to conduct their own preventive education sessions. Discussions also touched on the Drug‑Free Workplace Program, highlighting the barangay’s responsibility to institutionalize anti‑drug policies within its jurisdiction.
A Shared Commitment
Requested and hosted by Irene F. Perry, B-Force’s Country Ambassador for New Zealand, the activity was organized by Achilles B. Coronel, CPA, Founder and CEO of Blasert Force 568 Inc.. An after-activity report was submitted to PDEA VII emphasizing the guiding values of B-Force’s Freedom, Care, and Strength. These principles continue to inspire collective action against drug abuse, ensuring that communities remain vigilant and empowered.
Many thanks to our partners who we regularly collaborate with for these activities: the Knights of Rizal - District 30 Chapter, NY led by its Chapter Commander, Sir Flo Coronel, KCR and the United Federation of Fil-Am Educators (UNIFFIED) NJ Chapter headed by its President, Dr. Catalina Suerte.
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