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'Bong' Go enlists youth group in fight vs. drugs, terrorism

By Lilian Mellejor

November 10, 2018, 4:36 pm

<p>Former Presidential top aide Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go signs the Pledge of Commitment to support for a drug-free youth during the launch of the Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo (KKDAT) at the RMC Gym on Friday. <em><strong>(PNA photo by Lilian C Mellejor)</strong></em></p>

Former Presidential top aide Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go signs the Pledge of Commitment to support for a drug-free youth during the launch of the Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo (KKDAT) at the RMC Gym on Friday. (PNA photo by Lilian C Mellejor)

DAVAO CITY -- The former top aide of President Rodrigo Duterte has called on students to help the government in its campaign against illegal drugs, corruption, and terrorism, as he reiterated his confidence in young people as catalysts for change.

During Friday's launch of the Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo (KKDAT), Go pledged to help sustain the fight against illegal drugs "because it destroys humanity."

The drug menace, he said, remains the top reason why he goes around the country to promote sports among the youth.

In his speech to KKDAT members and organizers, Go said sports activities remain one of the most potent avenues to keep the youth from dangerous substances and illicit activities.

KKDAT, organized by the Police Regional Office 11 (Davao), envisions a school-based organization as part of the Philippine National Police's (PNP) program to raise awareness on crime prevention.

Chief Supt. Marcelo Morales, PRO-11 director, said the KKDAT aims to educate the youth on criminality and the ill effects of illegal drugs.
Morales said their age makes the youth vulnerable to the draw of drug syndicates and terrorist organizations, which commonly recruit them as couriers.

He cited the recent bombing in General Santos, in which a minor was used to bring a bag with an improvised explosive device.

“Yan ang trend ng kalaban. Ginagamit ang kabataan, lalung-lalo na sa illegal drugs (That is the trend nowadays in which the enemies penetrate the youth and utilize them in the illegal drugs trade, for instance),” the police official said.

Aside from colleges, Morales said KKDAT will be launched in elementary and high school campuses in the Davao region.

The program also has the support of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Education (DepEd), he added. (Lilian C Mellejor/PNA)

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