Pasig city: The National Youth Commission (NYC) is broadening its sports-based youth development initiatives as part of its efforts to observe the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT) 2026. The expansion aims to provide young individuals with opportunities to develop athletic skills and pursue roles as coaches, organizers, and sports workers.
According to Philippines News Agency, the "Kilos Kabataan: Sports Against Drugs Camp 2026" was held at the PhilSports Multi-Purpose Arena in Pasig City on Friday. NYC Chairperson Jeff Ortega emphasized that the initiative supports the government's drug prevention strategies by offering an alternative path for youth who might otherwise be susceptible to becoming drug couriers. Ortega highlighted concerns from the Department of the Interior and Local Government regarding minors, some as young as 14, being recruited as drug couriers, largely due to poverty-related vulnerabilities.
Ortega remarked on the importance of providing more than just sports tournaments, advocating for opportunities that enable young people to earn and learn through sports camp management. "Instead of becoming drug couriers, they can turn to sports. But it cannot stop at organizing tournaments. Young people should gain opportunities from it. If they learn how to run sports camps, they can earn as coaches, organizers, or scholars," he stated.
In collaboration with the Dangerous Drugs Board, the NYC has mobilized Sangguniang Kabataan officials and youth organizations from Metro Manila for this year's sports camp. The Commission also plans to extend the program to provincial areas, ensuring broader accessibility beyond the National Capital Region.
Ortega underlined the significant role parents play in guiding their children, while sports can help reinforce values such as discipline, integrity, and empathy. These values are particularly important for those lacking positive influences at home. "If they cannot get guidance at home, they can find it here in the sports camp. Discipline and integrity are values that cannot be bought," he concluded.
