CatSU MEDICAL OFFICER ON ENERGY DRINK SALE ON CAMPUS: Not allowed under Board Resolution 101 s. 2024
ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE (EC)During the orientation meeting on ‘University Policies and Guidelines on Food Services’ held on January 23, 2025, at the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Conference Room, Medical Officer III Dr. Abegail M. Abundo emphasized the prohibition of energy drinks in the campus canteens. As stipulated under Section 7 of Resolution No. 101, s. 2024, energy drinks are not allowed to be sold to students and employees. The university medical officer explained that many students have been reporting to the clinic with complaints of palpitations. Upon investigation, it was found by their office that these students frequently consume energy drinks like Sting. “Maraming dinadalang student sa clinic na nagpa-palpitate, and upon investigation, lagi pa lang umiinom ng Sting,” Dr. Abundo stated. With this, the canteen is required to offer more nutrient-rich options, such as milk, shakes, and juices, which align to the university policy. The said approved policy by the board aims to ensure that food offered on campus is accessible, sufficient, safe, and healthy. In fact, the resolution is also aligned with food safety and sanitary guidelines established by the Department of Health. To ensure the proper implementation of these guidelines, the Office of the Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs, the Office of Student Affairs and Development Services, and the Office of Health Services are tasked with overseeing food service operations on campus. At the end of the meeting, food business operators raised some concerns, and Nurse IV Emeline Francia P. Abrasaldo assured them that the concerns would be communicated to the Office of the Vice President for Administration and Finance for further action. Abrasaldo also shared that regular monitoring of food safety, hygiene, and sanitation practices is conducted by the Health Services on a quarterly basis to maintain high standards for all campus food outlets.
