AS the world prepares for the International Anti-Drug Day celebration, the Cagayan de Oro City government has announced that they are getting ready to participate in this significant cause.
In a statement released by the City Information Office (CIO),
the city is currently preparing under the administration of Mayor Rolando 'Klarex' Uy, through the Oro Citizen's Wellness and Development Center (OCWDC), for the celebration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT).
According to the city information office (CIO), this event is an opportunity for the government to emphasize the negative impacts of drug abuse and also to show support for those who were victims of it.
The Oro government even announced the exciting dragon boat event, which will be one of the flagship activities to celebrate the day.

It said, as part of the preparation for the event, an orientation for Dragon Boat activities was recently held in Duaw Park.
The purpose of the activity is to prepare personnel from the recovering persons who used drugs and their service providers, as well as the community-based managers for the upcoming event.
"The Oro government is focusing on the activities to take control of uncontrolled drug use and illicit trafficking in the area," it said.
This day also allows the government to show support for those who are struggling with substance abuse and their families.
OCWDC Head, Dr. Rhyselle Bernadette Melliza-Descallar, explained that Dragon Boat is just one of the many activities they have planned for IDADAIT.
“The activities are expected to help raise awareness about drug abuse and illegal drug trafficking, as well as provide support for those who are recovering from drug addiction,” Melliza-Descallar said.
She said that it is expected that Dragon Boat will serve as a fun and interactive way to engage those who are recovering, as well as provide them with wholesome activities to help them overcome their addiction.

Melliza-Descallar also expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming event, as she believes it will be effective in promoting the anti-drug campaign within the community.
According to her, the event is a collaborative effort between the different departments in the city, as well as various organizations that support the anti-drug campaign.
The event is not just a celebration but also a reminder that drug addiction continues to be a major problem, not just in the city but throughout the world, said Melliza-Descallar.
This event aims to raise awareness of the importance of teamwork, discipline, and focus in achieving goals while emphasizing the dangers of illegal drug use.
She added that with events like the IDADAIT, the city hopes to create more awareness about the problem and provide support for those who are struggling with addiction.
The IDADAIT is celebrated every 26th of June worldwide. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness of the major problem that drug addiction poses in all societies.
“Continue with your treatment because the program is always available, it does not stop,” she said adding that you can be happy that the presence of drugs is not needed, messaged by Dr. Descallar to the RPWUDS.
With events like dragon boat racing, the government aims to spread its message to the masses. The event aims to show people how important it is to steer clear of illicit drugs and work hard together in life.

The city government also hopes that the event will encourage dialogue on how to promote a safer and healthier community.
Overall, the city hall has shown its willingness to support the international initiative against drug abuse. The activities planned for the day, including the dragon boat event, aim to highlight the dangers of drug use and promote teamwork, focus, and determination to achieve goals.




