The Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region launched another worthwhile activity known as the “Tunog Pagkakaisa Kontra Bisyo para sa isang Healthy Pilipinas” an acoustic jam competition in the town of Bantay, Ilocos Sur, to instill awareness among the youths about the ill effects of smoking, alcohol, and drug abuse and the importance of a healthy community.
“This is another way of engaging our youth in doing worthwhile and productive activities that promote healthier lifestyles and increase their knowledge and understanding of the consequences of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use in their lives,” Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco stated.
“Paraan din ito upang malaman nila ang kagandahan ng pagkakaroon ng isang smoke free, alcohol free at drug-free community na lahat ay mayroong pagtutulungan at pagkakaisa and where everyone works actively to promote a healthy way of life. Smoking ang drug abuse is a threat to all and affects everyone from children to adults.”
DOH has been providing comprehensive support and informed guidance to local government units, stakeholders, and partner agencies by generating meaningful activities for youth to be engaged, empowered, and participate in the development and implementation of substance use prevention efforts in the community.
According to Regional Health Promotion Unit Head Cheryl D. Buhong, who organized and led the conduct of the activity in coordination with the LGU of Bantay and provincial government of Ilocos Sur said that the “Tunog Pagkakaisa Kontra Bisyo para sa isang Healthy Pilipinas” aims to engage LGUs to promote programs and activities in accordance to the DOH Health Promotion Playbook which supports and advocates for a healthy lifestyle.
“Sumasaklaw ito sa priority area 4 na nagtataguyod ng pag-iwas ng komunidad sa paninigarilyo, at pag-inom ng alak, at paggamit droga.”
“We have targeted teenagers, adolescents, and young adults for them to actively participate in community campaigns and engage them in worthwhile activities aimed at preventing substance abuse within the community,” Buhong emphasized.
The DOH opened the contest for all – 15 years old and above with a group of at least 3 but not more than 5 and participants shall play 3 songs, a cover song, their own composition, or an original.
The Ritmo Band entry of Brgy. Quimarayan was declared as the champion followed by Kiddie Meal of Brgy. Buquig and Polaries Band of Brgy.Balaeng bagged the first and second prize, respectively.
Consolation prizes were given to Youth on Fire of Brgy.Paing, Music Rhyme of Brgy. Tay-ac,
Kalmado of Brgy. San Isidro and Ride the Ballet of Zone 5.
A total of ₱33k in cash prizes was given by the regional office.
The local government of Bantay also added ₱10k for each of the winners.
The “Tunog Pagkakaisa Kontra Bisyo para sa isang Healthy Pilipinas” was held at Bantay municipal gymnasium in Ilocos Sur on June 23, 2023.
