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By Marianne Kate Locson, BSSW 3, Head Facilitator

BSSW 3 Block 2 students conduct a Community Education and Training activity titled “Your Voices Matter: Strengthening Youth Decision-Making Against Peer Pressure” at Barangay Tabuc Suba, Jaro, Iloilo City.

The youth sector serves as a vital force in community development, acting as emerging leaders and active contributors to social progress. However, they are also among the most susceptible to social influences, particularly peer pressure, which can significantly shape their decision-making, behavior, and overall well-being. In many communities, young individuals face difficulties in asserting themselves, making informed and value-driven choices, and resisting negative influences, often due to limited access to guidance, life skills development opportunities, and safe spaces for meaningful self-expression.

The Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) 3 – Block 2 students of ����ר�� successfully conducted a Community Education and Training (CET) activity entitled “Your Voices Matter: Strengthening Youth Decision-Making Against Peer Pressure” at the Modern ����ר��s Gym, Barangay Tabuc Suba, Jaro, Iloilo City. This initiative was carried out in compliance with the requirements of the course SOCWRK 3202: Social Work Community Education and Training, under the guidance of their adviser, Sir Sarex D. Dipol.

The activity formally commenced with an opening prayer led by Chelzee Ness Zante, setting a solemn and purposeful tone for the event. This was followed by the welcome remarks delivered by Barangay Kagawad Raul Jabonillo, who expressed his support and appreciation for initiatives that promote youth development within the community. Subsequently, Marianne Kate B. Locson, the Head Facilitator, presented the statement of purpose, highlighting the importance of equipping young individuals with the necessary skills to navigate peer pressure and make responsible life choices.

To energize the participants and create a lively atmosphere, a Zumba session was conducted as an energizer activity. This was followed by the first discussion, “Recognizing Peer Pressure in Real Life: Understanding Positive and Negative Influences,” facilitated by the first speaker, Marianne Kate Locson. The session emphasized awareness of how peer influence manifests in everyday situations, underscored by the message, “You don’t have to follow the crowd to belong—you just have to be true to yourself.”

The second discussion, “The Power of Saying No: Building Assertiveness and Healthy Boundaries,” was delivered by Ryzza Angela Escorial. The session focused on developing assertiveness and the ability to establish personal boundaries, empowering participants to make independent decisions. A key takeaway from the discussion was the statement, “Saying no is a form of self-empowerment.” The learning sessions were complemented by games and a raffle, which further encouraged participation and interaction among the youth.

The third discussion, “Think Before You Decide: Developing Responsible Decision-Making Skills,” was facilitated by Stephen Josh Malinao. The session highlighted the importance of values formation in guiding decisions, encapsulated in the statement, “Values guide your choices.” This was followed by a role-play activity, which provided participants with the opportunity to apply the concepts learned in realistic scenarios involving peer pressure and decision-making.

The program concluded with the awarding of certificates to participants and facilitators, recognizing their active participation and contribution to the success of the activity. Closing remarks were delivered by John Ira Emmanuel Taala, Assistant Head Facilitator, who expressed gratitude to the barangay officials, participants, and fellow organizers for their support and cooperation.

The activity was made possible through the collective effort of the BSSW 3 – Block 2 students, namely: Marianne Kate B. Locson, Ryzza Angela T. Escorial, Kirk S. Gomez, Maureen P. Madarcos, John Ira Emmanuel A. Taala, Kate Francine D. Seneris, Daniela Marie M. Sornito, Hezel Ann L. Castete, Chelzee Ness N. Zante, Joshua Ezekiel S. Almanon, Jhayzel C. Pardeño, Joanne Louise R. Hugo, Aiza C. Castellanes, Althea Mae C. Carloto, Carlean Barbara D. Estepa, Lydcel John S. Sandilantan, and Stephen Josh O. Malinao, whose dedication and collaboration ensured the successful implementation of the activity.

Overall, the Community Education and Training served as a meaningful platform for empowering youth by enhancing their awareness, strengthening their decision-making skills, and promoting positive values. Through this initiative, the BSSW 3 – Block 2 students demonstrated the application of social work principles in community engagement, contributing to the development of informed, confident, and responsible young individuals in Barangay Tabuc Suba.