22/02/2026
๐จ ๐พ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐จ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐บ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐, ๐จ ๐ท๐๐๐
๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ฏ๐๐๐๐๐
On February 21, 2026, the symposium entitled โAwareness in Action: Substance Abuse and Oral Health Strategiesโ was successfully conducted at the 2nd Floor, Business Development Center. The activity was participated in by NSTP students and was conducted both face-to-face and via Zoom meeting to ensure wider participation and engagement. This meaningful initiative gathered students, faculty members, and representatives from the University Health Center to promote awareness on substance abuse prevention and its connection to oral health. The event was organized by the CONCare Organization in partnership with the Northwest Samar State University โ University Health Center, reflecting a united commitment to health advocacy, prevention, and responsible decision-making within the academic community.
The program formally began with a prayer and the singing of the National Anthem, followed by the Rationale delivered by Engr. Ryan Emil T. Zosa IV, NSTP Director, who emphasized the importance of proactive education in building a drug-free and health-conscious campus. This was followed by the Opening Remarks of Engr. Ignacio G. Tocayon, Jr., who warmly welcomed the NSTP students and highlighted the value of collaboration in addressing pressing health concerns among the youth.
An informative lecture on the Legal Perspective of Drug Abuse was delivered by Police Colonel Michelle Cinco, who discussed the legal consequences, penalties, and rehabilitation aspects related to drug use and distribution. Her discussion underscored the seriousness of substance abuse from a legal standpoint and encouraged students to make responsible and lawful decisions.
An intermission number from the Level 1 Nursing students added vibrance and inspiration to the program, showcasing their talents while reinforcing the advocacy of healthy living and positive engagement.
The discussion continued with Substance Abuse Awareness presented by Ms. Toni Charm B. Calag, University Nurse, who explained the types and effects of substance abuse, its impact on physical and mental health, and the importance of prevention and early intervention. This was followed by a comprehensive lecture on Oral Health by Dr. Ellery D. Daguman, who elaborated on the oral manifestations of substance abuse and emphasized proper oral hygiene practices as essential strategies in preventing long-term health complications.
An open forum provided participantsโboth onsite and onlineโthe opportunity to raise questions, share insights, and clarify important points from the lectures, fostering active engagement and meaningful dialogue.
The ceremony concluded with Closing Remarks from Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio, Dean of the College of Nursing, who expressed gratitude to the organizers, speakers, and NSTP student participants for their support and active involvement. She reminded everyone that awareness must lead to action, and that every student has a responsibility to uphold a lifestyle rooted in health, discipline, and informed decision-making.
The program ended with a photo opportunity, symbolizing unity, collaboration, and the shared commitment to building a drug-free and health-conscious university community.
