New Virac cop chief asks CatSU students to 'stay fit, stay healthy, and stay away from illegal drugs' in Drug Prevention Forum
StudentsTo maintain a drug-free campus, the newly appointed chief of Virac Municipal Police Station, PLtCol Louie Manuel Dela Peña, who holds a degree in Public Safety and Narcotics, urged Catanduanes State University (CatSU) students to "stay fit, stay healthy, and stay away from illegal drugs" during the Drug Abuse Prevention Education on May 9, 2025. Dela Peña, who previously served as the deputy provincial director for administration at the Catanduanes Police Provincial Office (CatPPO), also emphasized the importance of obeying parents to avoid falling into the trap of illegal drug use. “Unang bagay na gagawin ninyo — sumunod kayo sa magulang ninyo, kasi once ma-involve kayo sa drugs, kawawa ang mga magulang ninyo. Wala ‘yang maidudulot na maganda,” he told the students. Held at CatSU Auditorium, the whole day event was organized by the University Student Council (USC) in partnership with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Catanduanes and the Catanduanes Police Provincial Office (CatPPO). Student Regent and USC President Virgilio Cortado, Jr. encouraged his fellow students to promote a university campus that excels academically while upholding strong moral values to combat illegal drug abuse. “Together, let us build a university that is not only excellent in academics but also strong in values—a university that says No to Drugs and Yes to Life,” Cortado stated. In the afternoon, participants engaged in a plenary discussion titled “The Science of Addiction,” which explored the physiological and psychological mechanisms of substance abuse. A follow-up discussion examined the connections between mental health, poverty, and other root causes of drug use. The program concluded with the signing of a Drug-Free Leadership Pledge.
