Republic of the Philippines

Commission on Higher Education

REGIONAL OFFICE 1

Student leaders from Region I HEIs took part in the 2nd Life Skills Enhancement Training of Trainers led by CHED Regional Office 1 and Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), at the Lenox Hotel, Dagupan City, Pangasinan, on June 24-26, 2025.

The training was conducted in observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT), in support of global efforts in promoting actions toward a drug-free world.

Dr. Danilo B. Bose, Chief Education Program Specialist of CHED RO1, welcomed the participants and pointed out the importance of the activity in sustaining drug prevention efforts within HEIs.

DDB Assistant Secretary Maria Victoria V. Sorne graced the event as the Guest of Honor and Speaker, where she emphasized the role of the youth in the campaign against illegal drugs—particularly in raising awareness and leading initiatives within their communities and spheres of influence.

In the training sessions, Ms. Edna A. Villavicencio, Training Specialist III of PETID, DDB, briefed the participants on the overview of the Training Courses and delivered sessions on Communication Skills and Assertion Skills.

Further, Dr. Honey S. Tila, Medical Specialist I and Head of the Public Health Unit of Dagupan City Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center, discussed the Effects of Psychoactive Substances and the Treatment and Rehabilitation Procedures, and Atty. John Elijah B. Bañez, Attorney III, Legal Affairs Division, DDB, provided a lecture on the Salient Features of R.A. 9165.

Mr. Amos John C. Refumanta, Training Specialist I, PETID, DDB, energized participants through engaging activities such as Yahoo/Tittle Tattle, Expectation Setting, and Ground Rules, while Ms. Emma R. Pastorfide rendered talks on Secret Friends / Positive Envelopes, Building Self-Esteem, Facilitation Skills, and Processing of Secret Friends / Positive Envelopes, helping participants understand empathy and positive reinforcement,

Finally, Ms. Lalaine F. Divina, Health Education & Promotion Officer III, PETID, DDB, wrapped up the course with interactive modules on Decision-Making Skills and Personal Skills, critical components in resisting peer pressure and making sound life choices.

Dr. Carmela C. Domocmat and Dr. Myrelle Faith D. Mina, CHED RO1 Education Supervisors, facilitated the flow of activities on the training.

𝘣𝘺 𝘔.𝘍. 𝘔𝘪𝘯𝘢