Piagapo holds forum on illegal drugs, terrorism

By ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL YAHYA

PIAGAPO, Lanao del Sur: More than 500 students and youth have converged here on Wednesday for a forum aimed at preventing them from the influence of illegal drugs and terrorism in their community.

With a theme, “Bangon Kabataan: Droga ay Iwasan, Terorismo ay Labanan," the activity was held at the Radapan Open Gym on Wednesday with the military, municipal and barangay local government unit officials, religious and other community leaders.

Lt. Col. Andres Soriano discussed about “Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE).”

The youth were informed when terrorism is happening in their respective communities, its bad effects, and most especially on how to prevent and avoid conflicts brought about by terrorists.

Mayor Kadidia Lininding welcomed the event and believed the youth should not be involved in such kind of activities as illegal drugs and terrorism.

Municipal Health Officer Dr. Rasmia Lawi, talked about the effects of the use of illegal drugs.

The military and the municipal government appealed to the youth to cooperate with authorities for any information on any suspected terrorist activity in their areas, and most especially not to join with any armed groups that will make their lives dangerous and destroy their future.

“Let us help each other for peace,” they said.

Among those who graced the occasion were Mayor Lininding,  Executive Officer of 82nd Infantry Battalion Major Julie Capitanea, Municipal Risk Reduction Management Officer Haron Manalocon, Municipal Information and Tourism Officer Mr Nabel Guiama, Religious Leader Aleem Mustafah Panganting, and Radapan Poblacion Chairperson Zolaica Campong. (RSP)