Mercado cites BSP role in drive vs drug abuse

Leading Makati vice mayoral bet Ernesto Mercado underscored yesterday the important role of youth organizations like the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) in the war against drug abuse.

Mercado, who was re-elected chair of the National Capital Region chapter of the BSP for the third straight year, said the BSP has always been at the forefront of values formation and character building since its founding. It is these strengths which make the Boy Scouts a formidable force in the campaign against illegal drugs among the youth, he said.

Mercado, a former councilor and head of Kasanib Foundation, said a lasting solution to the drug problem can be achieved at the community level by using a holistic approach in the anti-drug campaign.

"The war against drugs cannot be totally won if we keep on sending a supposedly rehabilitated youth back to a situation where illegal drugs are easily obtained. We must cut the supply of illegal drugs, make sure that the youth understand the evils of drug use through a sustained information drive, and involve them in activities that inculcate Filipino values and build character," he said.

He said the Makati City government has taken this approach. Barangay leaders recently donated some P1 million to the Makati Police Department to be used specifically for the anti-illegal drugs campaign, and local officials assist the police in identifying and confronting suspected drug pushers in the community.

Community and youth groups participate in various activities meant to inform the youth of the ill effects of drug use, and users are surrendered voluntarily by their parents for rehabilitation at the drug rehabilitation center constructed by the Makati City government in Taguig, he added.

"The Boy Scouts, together with other youth organizations and community groups, local government and barangay officials, and the law enforcement authorities form a solid community-based front against these peddlers of death," he said.

Mercado said he plans to step up the drive to increase membership among students in both private and public schools in Metro Manila. Mercado is credited with having spearheaded the construction of the four-story Baden building of the BSP-NCR in Makati. The building provides lodging and seminar facilities to BSP members.