To strengthen youth participation in community-based anti-drug initiatives and promote gender equality and inclusivity, the Department of the Interior and Local Government Region III (DILG R3) formalized a partnership with Pampanga State University (Pampanga State U), held at the DILG Conference Hall, Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Pampanga on November 28, 2025.

Through the Pampanga State U’s Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) Office and National Service Training Program (NSTP) Office, a Memorandum of Agreement was signed to launch the project titled “The Youth’s Choice: Building a Drug-Free and Gender-Responsive Community.”

This initiative seeks to support youth in recognizing the importance of programs that raise awareness on the dangers of illegal drugs and integrate gender sensitivity and inclusivity among community members.

Additionally, this endeavor includes activities for the University such as IEC creative contests and symposia to be held on December 5, 2025.

Representing Pampanga State U during the event were Dr. Dolores T. Quiambao, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services and Director for GFPS, together with the Pampanga State U-GFPS Technical Working Group.

Dr. Quiambao mentioned in her speech the importance of partnership and how this impacts the youth, especially the students, in connection with advocating gender-responsiveness.

Meanwhile, DILG R3 was represented by Jay E. Timbreza, Assistant Regional Director; Lerrie S. Hernandez, LGMED Chief, along with DILG R3 staff.

“Through this partnership with Pampanga State University, we are not only promoting awareness against illegal drugs—we are building safe spaces where our young people can lead, express their creativity, and become champions of positive change,” Timbreza said.

“Lahat po ng ito ay bahagi ng mas malawak nating layunin: ang pagkakaroon ng mas ligtas, mas maayos, at mas makataong mga komunidad,” he added.

Photo credits: Gender and Development Focal Point System

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