CHED AIRS ALARM OVER STUDENTS, INCREASED USE OF DRUGS

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has expressed alarm over
increasing reports of illegal drug use in schools.

CHED Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Carlito S. Puno said about 10 to 15 percent of
students in both public and private schools may have used or are using
prohibited drugs like shabu, (methamphetamine hydrochloride) and the
so-called "E-drug" or Ecstasy in between classes or during their break or
free time.

"It's a growing concern. The government, the schoolheads, and the agencies
concerned should really do something to curtail the problem; otherwise, the
number will double in 10 years," Puno warned.

The problem, he added, is rampant in Metro Manila schools but said it is
much lower in public schools or state universities. "We do not discount the
possibility that this could be high in state universities and colleges
(SUCs) as well," he stressed. "But what is certain is that public students
could not afford to buy these drugs because they are quite costly."

"Shabu, for instance, costs around R1,000 to R1,500 per tea bag size, while
the E-drug amounts to about R500 per tablet.

Other reports reaching CHED office revealed that some schools are reportedly
hiding their students who are drug users or just allowing them "a graceful
exit" (dropping the course or going on leave) despite their having found to
use prohibited drug.

The Comprehensive Drug Law states that circumventing the law alone is
already a crime. It also points out that among anybody else, it is the youth
who should be safeguarded from the harmful effects of dangerous drugs as
they adversely affect their physical and mental well-being.

The government is mandated to defend the public, particularly the youth,
against acts or omissions detrimental to their development and preservation.

CHED will meet with officials of the Departments of Interior and Local
Government (DILG), Justice (DoJ) and Education (DepEd) soon to discuss
solutions to the increasing gambling and betting by college students. The
concern on prohibited drugs in schools will be discussed, too.

"Illegal drug use is much more serious than student gambling," he said.
"While they may just be reports, we cannot be silent knowing that it is
affecting schools and the students."

Puno said he will ask parents to participate in finding solutions to the
drug problem. Several studies have indicated that one of the main factors
that propelled the young to use and abuse illegal drugs is "family problem."