DRUG EDUCATION, CONSUMER HEALTH, AND

NUTRITION

Lesson 1: Keys Terms in Consumer Education

Learning Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:
a. distinguish the key terminologies in consumer health education;
b. assess consumer education in Philippines;
c. evaluate the aim/objectives of consumer health education; and
d. appraise the importance of consumer education

Reading
Consumers are individuals who make use of the goods, services and gift of nature to satisfy their
needs and enhance their general wellbeing.
The definition above shows three important concepts that must be understood.
1. A consumer refers to person/individuals, in context, every human being in a society is a
consumer regardless of economic and social status.
2. A consumer consumes goods, services and gifts of nature such as fresh air, clean water and a
healthy environment.
3. The purpose for consumption is for satisfaction of needs to ensure general wellbeing of the
consumer. Such goods and services that are consumed are usually paid for by the consumer.
Even if the goods and services are offered free, the consumers are entitled to safe and
satisfactory products and services that guarantee their wellbeing.
It is obvious from the above, that consumers buy a lot of things to fulfil their needs. These things
may include products such as clothing, food, fuel, health products, electronics etc.
Services are facilities offered to us by various agencies, and organizations with or without
payment. These services may include water, education, transportation, communication, sanitation
and health.

Health Consumer
A health consumer is someone who buys or uses heath information, products and services. This
group includes the well, the sick, the young, middle age, old, the rich and the poor.

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Health Products
Health products are those substances, materials, equipment prepared or manufactured for people
to buy and use for maintenance of health and treatment of diseases e.g. foods, cosmetics,
medicines, eyeglasses, cars, appliances etc.

Health Services
Health services refer to health information, actions, procedures or supplies to help satisfy your
needs and wants as a consumer. They are services and things that people do to and for other
people. Examples of health services are medical consultations and treatment, telephone services,
electricity, newspapers etc.
Consumer Education
Consumer education is the process of assisting people to acquire the correct information and
understanding that will help them make wise decisions when purchasing goods and services. It is
the field of study that enlighten consumers on what, where, when, how, and how much to buy
and use what they have bought.
a) What to buy: Consumers should buy those products that are of good quality and which meet
their needs and priorities. Consumers are advised to conduct market survey to get vital
information about the products they intend to buy. They should decide on the particular brand.
Brand names is the popular name by which a product is known in the market. Some brand names
are very popular due to the quality, cost or effectiveness of the product.

How much to buy: Consumers are advised to buy only the quantity that they need. In
determining this, they must give consideration to factors such as money and storage space
available. This helps to prevent spoilage and wastage.
c) Where to buy: Goods can be purchased in retail shops, supermarkets, open markets,
cooperative stores, company showrooms, authorized dealers or wholesale markets.
d) When to buy: Some goods can be bought in large quantity when they are in season and be
preserved against their off season periods. Other goods can be bought when they are on sales and
the consumer can get discount sales.
e) How to buy: Goods can be bought either in cash or credit. Goods bought with cash are
relatively cheaper than those purchased on credit. Consumers may save and buy at the original
price by paying cash.
Whether cash or credit buying, consumers are advised to ask for guarantee and warranty cards
along with the receipt.

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f) How to use: Learn about the proper use of all products you are purchasing. Always read and
understand the instructions or user manuals that come with each product before use. Consumers
can also ask for a demonstration of usage

Lesson 2: Values of Consumer Education

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Learning Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:
a. master the act of buying judiciously; and
b. apply information on the important values that are being promoted in the society by
being a judicious consumer.

Reading
IMPORTANCE OF CONSUMER EDUCATION
Consumer education offers the consumer full information of marketing conditions like various
sources of purchasing a particular commodity, from where to get cheap and best goods. The
shops that provide additional facilities and the latest products. All these information enables
him/her in taking right decisions regarding shopping.
 Familiarizes the consumer with various standards of standardization and their markings.
 Familiarizes the consumer with various acts enacted by the government from time to time.
This helps the consumer in getting satisfaction by proper utilization of his money and leads to
better living and standard.
 Familiarizes the consumer with problems which he/she faces while making purchases. This
education inculcates the logical viewpoint in him.
 Consumer education ensures that companies are held accountable by government agencies and
the consumers that use their products and services.
 Helps consumers understand their rights and become active participants in the buying process.
 Provides the public with information it needs on goods and services.
 Motivates consumers to provide feedback that can be used to improve the quality of products
and services.
 Helps a person in making proper purchase, enables the consumer in making the right selection.
 Keeps economy moving as it holds companies accountable for what they sell.
 Makes people aware of the quality of goods and services they are purchasing.
 Give consumers control over their purchases.

Values of Consumer Education

The act of buying, if done wisely and judiciously can promote certain values in the society which
is beneficial to consumers and all sectors of the society in general. These values have the

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potential to contribute to the promotion of fair, just and equitable economic and social system.
There are five important values which includes the following:

Value for Money

All consumers have different means of earning incomes because they belong to different sectors
such as government workers (civil servants), business people, traders or investors. The hard
earned income should give consumers satisfaction for their needs. These incomes give
consumers adequate purchasing powers and as such, should have adequate values.
Knowledge and information from consumer education helps consumers to avoid wasteful and
indiscriminate purchases thereby giving them value for their hard-earned incomes.

Value for People

All responsible consumers must ensure that their consumption patterns and lifestyle do not
contribute to the economic exploitation and oppression that disregard human values. For
example, industries should not cause pollution to the environment, manufacturers should not
indulge in child labor. If this happens, consumers should boycott the purchase and use of
products from such manufacturers.

Value for Environment

Through consumer education, all consumers become aware that human activities are the cause of
environmental degradation. With this knowledge, consumers avoid activities that may constitute
danger to the environment.

Value for Democracy

All consumers are an integral part of civil society. As members of the civil society, consumers
give mandate to members of civil society through the process of election to govern them.
Consumers as citizens of the society, have right to government services. Knowledge of consumer
education helps them to ensure that such services are responsible, transparent and accountable.
Value for democracy is only possible if consumers as citizens play their role with great
responsibility.

Value for Justice

All civilized society should ensure rule of law, justice and peace. Consumers in the society have
a role to ensure value for justice. Justice must prevail for all categories of consumers (investors,
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traders etc.). The knowledge and information from consumer education guides all consumers on
how to obtain justice for inadequate or substandard purchases and services.
Different Types of Consumers:
1.Omnivores-eat plants & meat example milk & egg
2. Herbivores-eat plants only example nut
3.Carnivores-eat meat only

Lesson 3: Rights of a Consumer

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Learning Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:
c. identify the different consumer rights in the Philippines; and
d. appraise consumer rights in Philippines.

Reading:
Rights to Basic Needs
All consumers must have access to basic needs and services which are necessary for their
survival, such basic needs include food, water, energy, shelter, health care, education, clothing
and sanitation. The quality of goods and services provided to consumers must be of good
standard which can give value for the money spent by the consumer.
Rights to Safety/Protection
All consumer has right to be protected against products and services that may constitute danger
or hazard to their life.
Rights to be Informed
Consumers have right to informed about the quantity, quantity, prices, purity, patency,
manufacturing date, expiry date. All products must carry a label with the above information
stated on it. Products or brands are not allowed to carry misleading information through
advertising, labelling and packaging.
Right to Redresser
All consumers have the right to lay complain about any product or service which they find
unsatisfactory. All consumers have the right to be compensated for faulty products purchased.
They also deserve compensation for shady goods and unsatisfactory public and private services.
This right also ensure that consumers have right to change faulty products or refund money for
faulty products or free repair of them.
Right to Consumer Education
All consumers have the right to acquire information and knowledge concerning the goods and
services they purchase which will help them in making wise choices. Consumers should also
acquire the skills they require to make informed choices in the market.

Right of Choice
All consumers have the right to make free choice of products and services from a competitive
market with assurance of satisfactory quality.

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Right to Healthy Environment
Consumers have the right to live and work in a healthy environment that does not expose them to
danger of diseases and pollutions which may deteriorate their health. The environment should
enhance a life of dignity and wellbeing for them and generations to come after them.

Lesson 4:Responsibilities of a Consumer

Learning Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:
e. identify the different responsibilities of consumers.

Reading:

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Awareness
All consumers have the responsibility to know about the quality and safety of all products or
services they are buying. They need to be more alert and ask questions about the quality of goods
and services they use. Consumers should insist on buying good quality products that has
standardization marks.
Action
It is the responsibility of the consumer to ensure that they get fair deals from all products and
services. Consumers should not allow themselves to be exploited by being carried away with
sales talks, attractive labels, packaging or advertisements, sales tricks or gimmicks.
Social Concern
Consumers should be aware of the impact of their consumption on other people. Products or
services used must not infringe on the health or rights of other citizens.
Reporting
Report cases of cheating and encouraging other consumers to do the same. Consumers should
cooperate with law enforcement agencies in getting guilty offenders punished.

Environmental Awareness
It is the responsibility of the consumer to recognize the consequences of his consumption on the
environment. All consumers must recognize their individual and social responsibilities towards
conservation of natural resources.

Take Bills
It is the duty of the consumer to request for the bills, receipts, cards or demonstration of products
etc. These items are proof of the consumer’s purchases and will help in getting redresser in case
of substandard or faulty products.
In addition to the above, the following are also duties and responsibilities of the consumer:
 Follow manufacturer’s instructions for use, care and maintenance of all products.
 Do not misuse the customer services offered by manufacturers and shop keepers’ e.g. free
home delivery, exchange within a specific period, credit, terms etc.

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Lesson 5: Product Labelling

Learning Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:
f. explain the characteristics of good labelling;
g. appraise the importance of labelling; and
h. evaluate consumer roles in ensuring good labelling.

Reading:
Meaning of Product Labelling

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Product labelling refers to information provided on the products to guide consumer in making
wise decision that will meet his/her needs and will not constitute any danger to his/her health and
wellbeing.
3.1.2 Meaning of Labelling
A label may be a piece of paper, plastic, clothes, metals, or other materials with detailed
information about the product which is attached to its packaging. It gives the consumer important
information such as:
 Name of product
 Brand name
 Manufacturers name and address
 Contents/ingredients
 Directions for use, care and maintenance
 Dates of manufacture and expiry
 Dosage, in the case of medicines
 Possible side effects of medicines
 Net weight/volume
 Maximum retail price (MRP) inclusive of all taxes
 Warnings and precautions
 Guarantee period

Consumers are advised to develop the habit of reading product labels carefully before buying
them.
3.2 Characteristics of Good Labelling
Understanding the characteristics of good labelling is essential for all consumers because this
will guide them in making the right choices when buying products. Good labelling must cover
the following important areas:
1. Provide basic information
Details of content and ingredients
Product labels should carry information on the content and ingredients contained in the product,
especially for food items. The information provided must be simplified in such a way that

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consumers will understand their meanings or be able to check up their meanings in the
dictionary. The information must include weight and measurements.
3. Instruction for use
A good label is one that provides clear instructions on how to use the product. Example of
products such as electrical equipment, machines and some other home appliances are packaged
with their user manuals. Food items and medicines must state the amount of dosage required.
Instructions for storage and maintenance should also be included.
4. Warnings and precautions
A good product should state warnings against possible dangers and hazards of the product. This
is very important for medicines and food items. The labels must indicate contra indications and
possible side effects. Products must also provide statutory warnings required by law, e.g.
smoking is injurious to health. “Smokers are liable to die young” on the package of cigarettes.
5. Easy to read
A good label must be visible and easy to read. Information on the label must not be ambiguous
and must be easily understood by consumers. In the case of medicine, detailed information, apart
from the core messages on the label should be provided on information sheets.

Roles/Responsibilities of Manufacturers in Labelling

A product label should provide complete and clear information that will ensure the safety and
satisfaction of the consumer. The marketers (retailers) of the product rely on manufacturers’
information and warranty since they are not the producers. The responsibility of product
labelling and safety therefore lies solely on the manufacturers. The roles and responsibilities of
manufacturers on labelling is as follows:
1. Accountability: Manufacturers must ensure without any doubt that the products they produce
are safe for use and consumption, meet consumer satisfaction, protection and general wellbeing.
2. Accurate and Clear Information: Product labelling should provide accurate and true
information that will guarantee the safety and protection of the consumer. Product labelling must
not be misleading or ambiguous. It must therefore become the responsibility of the
manufacturers to ensure that the labels on their products contain true and reliable information
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that will help the consumer make a wise and healthy choice in his purchase. Important
information on products should include:
 Brand name
 Standard certificate
 Manufacturing/expiring dates
 Contents/ingredients for food items
 Direction for use and dosage for medicines
 Clear and precise instruction for the use of the product
 Instruction for use and storage
 Weights and measurements
 Contra-indication and possible side effects
 Name and address of manufacturers

3. Educate and Train Retailers: The retailers have direct contact with consumers because they
market and sell products to the consumers. The manufacturers have the responsibility to educate
or train these retailers on how to explain and give correct interpretation of the information on the
label to consumers. These retailers must be able to guide all categories (literates and illiterates)
of consumers appropriately in making a right choice in their purchases.

4. Be Committed to Consumer Redress: It is mandatory upon manufacturers to ensure consumer

protection, safety and satisfaction. If consumers experiences danger, injury or dissatisfaction
from the products they purchase, the manufacturers must committed to provide redress and
improve on, or correct the product faults.

3.4 Consumers Role in Ensuring Good Labelling

As it is commonly said, a customer (consumer) is a “king”. This statement emphasize the power
which the consumer has concerning his purchases, which if well exercised can save him from
being exploited by manufacturers and marketers. Ability to enforce these rights will also allow
him seek redresser when the need arises.
For the consumer to exercise his rights effectively with regards to proper product labelling, he
needs to play the following roles:

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1. Reading Product Labels: The first thing a consumer should do to promote ethical and
accurate product labelling is to develop the habit of reading product labels critically when
making purchases. Any product that does not have good labels should be avoided by consumers.
By doing this, the manufacturers will be motivated to improve on their product labelling.
2. Provide Feedback and Information on Misleading or Inappropriate Labelling: Consumers
can ensure proper labelling by providing feedback on the inadequacies observed on product
labelling. Consumers need to communicate with the manufacturers or retailers about the faults
they have observed on their product labels. This action will create awareness among
manufacturers and retailers on the need for proper labelling of their products.
3. Consumer association: Consumers are advised to join and support consumer associations and
collectively advocate for good and accurate product labelling. These associations play the role of
educating and protecting consumers against dangers or hazards caused by inaccurate product
labelling. The actions of such associations can also motivate manufacturers and retailers to
provide accurate information on their product labels.
4. Boycott: Consumers should boycott products that contains inaccurate or misleading
information who do not respond to feedbacks from consumers should also be avoided. Such
action will force manufacturers to improve on the standard of their product labelling and adopt
more responsible trade practices.

Lesson 6: Business Ethics

Learning Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:
a. discuss the meaning of business ethics; and
b. justify the importance of good business ethics to consumers and the public.

Reading:
Business ethics is a written and unwritten principle and values that govern decisions and actions
of a business organization. Ethics is concerned with all aspects of human behaviors and set
standards of any business organization. Ethics in business is about knowing the difference
between right and wrong and choosing to do what is right.
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Importance of Good Business Ethics
a. The emergence of consumer movement is an effort to promote consumer protection through
an organized social movement which in many societies are led by consumer organizations. The
role of consumer movement is to check unethical behaviors of businesses therefore, the
importance of good business ethics is to help such businesses get the support of consumer
movement.
b. Good and ethical business aims to serve and protect the interest of consumers. The practice of
good business ethics can synergize cooperation and collaboration between ethical business and
the consumer movements.
c. The practice of good business ethics by business owners promotes cordial relationship
between consumers and business organizations. The business that is ethical and truly wants to
serve the interest of consumers will get feedback from consumers. This feedback can help
businesses to improve constantly to the satisfaction of customers (consumers).

Characteristics of Ethical Business

a. Core value statements
An ethical business requires core value statements that guides the mission and activities of the
business. Any business can create value statement but an ethical one lives by it. An ethical
business will outline its code of conduct that supports its vision and ensure that all employees
abide by it as they carry out the business duties.

b. Respect for employees and customers

An ethical business demonstrates respect for its employees by valuing good and giving equal
treatment to all. An ethical business respects its customers 30 by listening to their feedbacks and
meeting the needs and wants of consumers with reasonable profits and not one that exploits
them.
c. Integrity and fairness
An ethical business obeys business laws and regulations set at local, state, and federal levels. It
demonstrates fair and honest dealings with customers and ensures the production the highest
quality standards of its products.
d. Loyal relationship with consumers
An ethical business stays loyal to its business partners even in challenging times. Customers will
remain loyal to a business that is reliable and dependable in all situations.

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The ethical business takes care of the interest of its workers, its shareholders and others involved
in the business.
e. Concern for people and environment
An ethical business have genuine concern for anyone and anything imparted by its business. This
includes customers, employees and the public. An ethical business engages in the safest, least
polluting, coefficient and effective way of production using resources optimally and comes for
the environment.

MODULAR UNIT 3
Drug and Substance
Abuse Prevention And Control
Anyway, no drug, not even alcohol, causes the fundamental ills of society.
If we’re looking for the source of our troubles, we shouldn’t test people for
drugs, we shouldn’t test them for stupidly, ignorance, greed and love of power

-P.J O’Rourke

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Overview
Drug education program for the youth is a significant undertaking in order to fre them danger
and keep them away from drugs. The youth of today comprise the most vulnerable group that
can be affected by prohibited drugs that are commonly abused. According to General Edgar C.
Galvante, Former Executive Director, Dangerous Drugs Board, most drug users start their habit
early, usually during their teenage years. They are particularly susceptible to the drug experience
because adolescence is the period of experimentation, exploration, curiosity, and search for
identity. It is believe that young people with problematic backgrounds are more vulnerable and
are more likely to continue abusing drugs, once they have started, and ti=o develop other
aggravating problems, if not processed. These young people in difficult circumstances are
associated with poverty, family disintegration, relocation, discrimination, and lack of suitable
alternative activities.
Drug abuse prevention, done through problem awareness, education and strategy
implementation, is very vital to the success in controlling and stopping drug abuse. Positive
behavior, including the constructive handling of feelings and responsibilities, should be installed
and encouraged in our own families during the early life of young family members and carried
on up to the later stage of life. These should be nurtured by a caring and understanding
community.
It has been known that the foremost reason why our youth is dragged into the abyss of drug
abuse is the lack of guidance from the family itself. There are aspects of this reason. First, maybe
the persons are too busy with their jobs, giving less time to their children. Second, parents have
not finished schooling, making them less informed and less aware of the effects of drugs. Third,
the type of discipline of the parents includes physical violence, theus, in most cases in the
Philippines, drives away the kid from home.
The most predominant reason. Adolescence is the period where wants exceed necessities. A
teenager spends more time with friends or peers rather than at home. It is the stage where a
youngsters has continuing searching of identity and place in the society. The influence of the
peers, either friends or activity partners, has been proven as a strong force of initiation into drug
addiction among the youth.
The drug addict is generally an emotionally unstable individual before he or she acquires the
habit. The person cannot face painful situations without help. He has little or no self-control. He
or she hates physical, mental or moral sufferings . every individual cannot stand alone, as we say
it.
A person will try to use drugs if a friend insists, for the sake of friendship. This weakness is a
predator and hard to dismantle for most teenagers.
Truly drug abuse is a predator, a monster that preys on innocent, curious mind like those of the
teenagers. Hence, this module zeroes in on uncovering problem of drug abuse among the
youngsters and on finding ways and means by which this societal menace could be lessened, if
not totally annihilated.

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Learning Objectives
At the end of this modular unit, you are expected:
1. Explore the nature and effects of drugs of abuse and substances such as alcohol,tobacco,
and others on personal health and social relationships;
2. Synthesize accurate information the health, legal, and social consequences ofdrug and
substance abuse and examine how this negatively impacts the person who uses the drug, and his
or her family, friends and community; and
3. Make a personal commitment to remain drug free and develop a plan to addressdrug and
substance abuse.

Input N0. 1: The Nurture of Drug and Drug Abuse (FAQs)

What is a Drug?
A drug is a chemical substance that brings about physical, emotional or behavioral change in a
person taking it.
How are drugs taken?
1. Ingestion

2. Inhalation

3. Injection

4. Used a suppository

5. Applied topically

When are Drugs Harmful

Any drug may be harmful when taken in excess. Some drugs can also be harmful if take in
dangerous combinations or by hypersensitive (allergic) person in ordinary or even small
amounts.
Why People Turn to Drugs?
There are various reasons-ranging from the reason that “medicines” can solve problems, to
widespread access to various drugs, to “peer pressure”, to the notion that drugs give enjoyment
to users and in the context that it is used as an alcoholic substitute.
What is Drug Abuse?
Drug abuse is the use of chemical substance, illicit, which results in an individual’s physical,
mental or social impairment. It may refer to any of the following practices:
1. Using, without benefit or prescription, useful drugs which have the capacity toalter mood
or behavior;

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2. Using drugs and substances for a purpose different from the one for which thedrug has
been prescribed; and
3. Using drugs and substances having no legitimate medical application forpurposes other
than research.
Are There Products Other Than Drugs Ever Abused?
Substances like glue, paint thinners, gasoline and other volatile (breathable) solvents contain a
variety ff dangerous chemicals. They should be sold and used with caution.
What are the Types of Drugs?
Drugs that are commonly abused, depending on pharmacological effects , may be classified into:
1. Stimulants. Drugs which increase alertness and physicaldisposition

Examples: amphetamine, cocaine, caffeine, nicotine

2. Hallucinogens (Psychedelics). Drugs which affect sensation, thinking, selfawareness and
emotion. Changes in time and space perception, delusions (false beliefs) and hallucinations
may be mild or overwhelming, depending on dose and quantity of the drug.
Examples: LSD, Mescaline and Marijuana
3. Sedatives. Drugs which may reduce anxiety and excitement

Examples. Barbiturates, Non-barbiturates, Tranquilizers, Alcohol

4. Narcotics. Drugs that relieve pain and often induce sleep

Examples: Opium and its derivatives such as Morphine, Heroin, Codeine What is a
Drug Abuser?
Anyone can be a drug abuser. Drug abuse is no respecter of age, sex and nsocial status. It is very
difficult to come up with an accurate profile of a drug abuser that can be applied to all because
people are different in many ways.
How Can You Tell When One is Abusing Drugs?
A lot of changes-in behavior, in appearance and in mood- occur in a person who is abusing
drugs. Sudden changes occur in the person’s disposition from pleasant to unpleasant.
Thus, he:
1. is often associated with known drug abuses;

2. is irritable, discourteous, defiant and aggressive

3. is untrustworthy and lacks self-confidence;

4. is unhealthy and unconcerned with good grooming;

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5. has low frustration tolerance;

6. lacks interest in his studies/work

7. blames everybody but not himself for his problems;8. develops changes in normal capabilities

in school/work; and
9. borrows money and at times steals various items unsually.
Common Signs of Drug Abuse
1. Injection marks of an addict

2. Unusual effort made to cover arms in order to hide needle marks

3. Stealing items which can be readily sold for cash to support a drug habit

4. Changes in mood-depending on the drug taken

Examples: depressed or becoming elated and euphoric

5. Association with knowledge abuses

6. Change from normal capabilities (work habits, efficiency, etc.)

7. Change in attendance at work or school

8. Wearing sunglasses constantly at inappropriate times (for instance, indoors or atnight) or only
to hide dilated or constricted pupils but also to compensate for the eyes’ inability to adjust to
sunlight. Marijuana causes bloodshot eyes.
9. Poor physical appearance including inattention to dress and personal hygiene

Input No. 2: The National Drug Situation

National Drug Situation
All of us are very much aware of the nature of the drug problem. It has been condemned
by governments all over the world and billions in resources have been spent to contain it, yet
drug trafficking and / or drug abuse is still here.
In fact, it is today’s most profitable underground business which has spawned, yet
considered as another crime and source of money laundering on a global scale. The Vienna –
based International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) points out that “No country, rich or poor,
large or small, equipped with sophisticated machinery to fight money-laundering or not, can
consider itself safe from moneylaundering activities.”
The Philippine situation is not any different from other countries of the world that are
affected by drug problem and is in fact following the trends in other countries.
Three (3) major based abused drugs dominate the drug scene in the country. The first is
methamphetamine hydrochloride commonly known as “Shabu”, which is the main drug used by
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drug abusers. The second is Marijuana. According to some sources, the Philippine has become
the world’s second biggest source of marijuana after Mexico.
Commonly Abused Drugs
1. Shabu (Methamphetamine Hydrochloride). Methamphetamine is the most popularabused
drug in the country today. In the 1990s, stimulant abuse emerged in many ASEAN countries.
This major change in the pattern of substance abuse can perhaps be considered as the first
stimulant epidemic of the region. The Philippines is probably the first ASEAN country that faced
severe stimulant abuse. The abuse of methamphetamine was noted in 1986. Among the affluent,
entertainment and artist population. The status of methamphetamine or “shabu” abuse at that
time seemed well confined. However, in 1987the abuse spread to the general population.
Today, methamphetamine is available in varying degrees throughout the country. This
widespread availability is illustrated by increasing methamphetamine seizures, arrests, and cases
filed in court.
2. Ecstasy or Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). Ecstasy is fast making
itspresence felt in the country. There is an increase in reports about the use of “ecstasy” among
young people, particularly in nightclubs. Ecstasy, or MDMA, is a synthetic drug that acts
simultaneously as a stimulant and as hallucinogen. It is strongly linked to music and dance
culture and has a growing user based among the elites (Class A and B). While some users
confine their consumption to occasional use at social, music and dance events, others develop
regular use profiles, while the third group uses both frequently and intensively.
There are reports stating that ecstasy is shipped directly from Amsterdam and other countries in
Europe. There are close to a thousand varieties of ecstasy tablets and capsules and among them,
which are now available in Metro Manila, are Orange Grin Hornets Aigners, Achtung, and
Mitsubishi. Studies abroad reveal that the damage caused by ecstasy to one’s health is
irreversible.
3. Marijuana. Mariuana abounds in the Philippines. But since the early nineties, ithas seized
to be the drug of choice. Most of what is produced locally is intended for foreign markets . In
East Asia, the Pacific, Australia, Europe, and the US, the UNDCP has identified the Philippines
as a major marijuana producer and exporter.
The Cordillera Authonomous Region is the biggest producer of cannabis or marijuana in
the country as evidenced by the number of plants and seeds confiscated within a ten-year period
of time.

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COMPREHENSIVE DANGEROUS ACT 0F 2002 (RA9165)

What is RA 9165 all about?
RA 9165 AN ACT INSTITUTING THE COMPREHENSIVE DANGEROUS DRUGS
ACT OF 2002, REPEALING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6425, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE
DANGEROUS DRUGS ACT OF 1972, AS AMENDED, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives
of the Philippines in Congress assembled Any act of introducing any dangerous drug into the
body of any person, with or without his/her knowledge, by injection, inhalation, ingestion or
other means, or of committing any act of indispensable assistance to a person in administering
a dangerous drug to himself/herself unless administered by a duly licensed
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo today signed an act that would give more teeth to the
government's drive against illegal drug trade and addiction. In approving the Comprehensive
Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 or Republic Act (RA) 9165, the President repealed the Dangerous
Drugs Act of 1972 or RA 6425.
RA 9165 imposes capital punishment on those convicted for selling, trading, trafficking,
importing and cultivating dangerous drugs and their controlled precursors.
The same penalty is also imposed on those who possessed 50 grams or more of shabu, 500 grams
of marijuana, 10 grams of opium, morphine, heroin, cocaine, ecstasy and other dangerous drugs
as listed in the annex of the law.

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It also provides life imprisonment for the possession of lesser quantities of the same drugs listed
above.
But persons found guilty of possessing less than five grams of the drugs listed in the annex
would be meted a 12-year prison term.
Stiff penalties are also been imposed on convicted dangerous drug financiers, protectors,
coddlers and traders who use cellular phones and the Internet in making illegal deals.
The penalty of imprisonment ranging from twelve (12) years and one (1) day to twenty
(20) years and a fine ranging from One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) to Five hundred
thousand pesos (P500,000.00) shall be imposed upon any person, who, unless authorized by law,
shall import any controlled precursor and

Most Commonly Abused Drugs in the Philippines

Methamphetamine Hydrochloride (locally known as Shabu)

Street names: shabs, ice, meth, crystal, kristal, basura, tawas

Shabu is the most popular and commonly abused drugs in the country today. This stimulant is
believed to be the drug choice of 90% drug users in the Philippines. We often see and hear about
this in the news. A powerfully addictive drug, causing people to become extremely paranoid and
have intense hallucinations, this drug has grown into a 1 billion-a-day industry in the country.
The country was also dubbed as the "smuggler's paradise".

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Cannabis Sativa (Marijuana)

Street names: weed, jutes, pot, grass, damo, chongke

This drug impairs a person's ability to form new memories and to shift
focus. Getting high or "stoned" is the reason most pot smokers use marijuana.
Many experts also believe that heavy pot smokers are at increased risk for lung
cancer. Kalinga province in Cordilleras is emerging as one of the country's top
Marijuana "hotspot". It is considered illegal here, though.

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Alcohol
This is perhaps the most common drug in the Philippines aside from
Methamphetamine. Alcoholism is another problem that needs to be addressed. It
may not be illegal, but the effects of Alcohol on people are almost the same as
illegal drugs. Approximately 2.5 million people die annually due to excessive
alcohol use (as of 2011). The Filipinos are also the heaviest beer drinkers in South
East Asia

Inhalants
Inhalants refer to substances that can be turned into chemical vapor to be inhaled.
It could be a cheap way for people to get high. Examples of these are:Inhalants
could be a cheap way for people to get high. Examples of these are: Nitrites,
gasoline, aerosols, nitrous oxide, solvents, and rugby. Rugby is probably the most
common in the Philippines.
Drugs affect your mind and body
Drugs are substances that change a person’s mental or physical state. They can
affect the way your brain works, how you feel and behave, your understanding and
your senses. This makes them unpredictable and dangerous, especially for young
people.
Why do people use drugs?
Drugs change the way your body or brain works.
People take drugs because:
 they are curious and want to see what happens
 they want to fit in or feel pressured by their peers

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 they enjoy the effect on their body — for example, feeling excited and
energetic, or relaxed and calm
 they help them cope with situations — for example, reducing pain or
relieving stress
 they’ve have a drug dependency and need to keep taking them to avoid
withdrawal symptoms
How do people take drugs?
People take drugs in different ways. Common methods include:
 swallowing tablets or drinking liquids — the body absorbs the drug through
the stomach lining
 breathing them into the lungs — the body absorbs the drug through the
lining of the lungs
 snorting into the nose — the body absorbs the drug through the thin nasal
lining
 injecting — the user injects the drug directly into the bloodstream
 through the skin — the body slowly absorbs the drug from a cream or patch
 rectally or vaginally as a suppository — the body absorbs the drug through
the bowel or vaginal lining
Legal drugs
Some drugs — such as alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine — are legal but may be
subject to restrictions based on age, location of use, driving and point of sale
regulations.
We regulate and control the active ingredients in legal drugs:
 the alcohol content of drinks
 the milligrams of nicotine in cigarettes
 Illegal drugs
 Other drugs such as cannabis, amphetamines, ecstasy, cocaine and heroin,
are illegal. They are not subject to quality or price controls and the amount

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of active ingredient varies. A person using illegal drugs can never be sure of
how strong the drug is, or what is actually in it.
 Different batches of an illegally manufactured drug may have different
amounts of the drug and other unidentified additives.
 It is against the law to possess, use, make, import or sell illegal drugs. The
penalties for drug offences vary depending on the age of the offender (adult
or minor), type of drug, quantities involved, previous offences, and the state
or territory in which the offence happened.
Illicit drugs
Illicit drugs include:
 illegal drugs
 prescription medicines that have been obtained illegally or are not being
used for medicinal purposes
 other substances that are being used inappropriately — for example, sniffing
glue or inhaling paint thinner

What are the most common drugs used in the Philippines?

The most commonly used drug in the Philippines is a variant
of methamphetamine called shabu or “poor man's cocaine.” According to a 2012
United Nations report, the Philippines had the highest rate
of methamphetamine abuse among countries in East Asia; about 2.2% of
Filipinos between the ages 16–64 years were
Involvement of government officials and employees[edit]
From 2010 to 2015, 623 government officials and employees were arrested for
drug possession, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
Of these, 45% were government employees while 30% were elected officials and
25% were police. Several government officials have been arrested for drug
possession, like former PDEA Special Enforcement Service director and
Lieutenant Colonel Ferdinand Marcelino but released months later after some
clarification in the ongoing investigation

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Deaths[edit]
A week after Rodrigo Duterte was inaugurated on June 30, 2016, it was reported
that about 1,000 drug pushers and users had been killed in police operations and
around 1,000 killed in drug-related incidents.[30] A March 2017 INCSR report by
the United States State Department estimated that 6000 extrajudicial killings had
resulted from "police actions and vigilantism".[31]
The total number of deaths associated with the war on drugs fluctuates depending
on the source. In June 2019, the government reported a death toll of 5,526 deaths
of "drug personalities." While in that same month a former police chief reported
that the number was closer to 6,700. In December 2018, the country's Commission
on Human Rights (CHR) estimated that death toll could be as high as 27,000.
[32]
Police told local media in
Criticism[edit]
Ifugao congressman Teodoro Baguilat and senator Leila de Lima called for an
investigation on the cases of killings of drug pushers by police, due to the alarming
rise of deaths of drug pushers in police operations. Baguilat expressed concerns on
the rising number of deaths of drug pushers and users that if the rate of deaths of
drug pushers and users continue to increase, people will soon be involved in killing
suspected drug personalities
Support[edit]
The New People's Army initially supported Duterte's war against drugs, especially
on government officials, police, and the military until August 2016. [35] A poll
released in September 2019 found that the war on drugs has an 82% satisfaction
rate among Filipino citizens.[36] Additionally, in that same poll, Duterte's approval
rating was at 78%.
The following are the most common prohibited drugs and how they affect their
users:

Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine, a.k.a. Shabu, also goes by the names Crack meth, Ice, Crystal
meth, Tik, and Yaba.

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Methamphetamine belongs to a group of drugs called amphetamine-type

stimulants. Like ecstasy, it is manufactured in illegal laboratories and sold in
powder, tablet or crystal form. It could be swallowed, sniffed, smoked or injected.
Ecstasy
Ecstasy goes around by the names E, Snackies and New Yorkers. The drug,
usually made in illegal laboratories, consists of a range of substances that make it
dangerous to consume. It comes in the form of tablet, powder or capsule and is
usually swallowed, but could also be snorted or injected
Cannabis
Cannabis is known by many names -- Bongo, Ganja, Grass, Pot or Thai sticks. Its
most famous name, however, is Marijuana, or Mary Jane.
Cocaine
Cocaine is known as Crack, Bazooka, Blanche, Cake, Coke or Lady. It is a fine
white or off-white powder extracted from the leaves of the coca plant.

The UNODC said that on the street, cocaine is diluted with other substances, such
as ammonia or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), to increase its quantity and
produce crack.

Cocaine is usually sniffed or injected, while crack is usually smoked. After

snorting cocaine, users feel exhilarated and euphoric, leading to increased energy
levels and alertness, along with delayed hunger and fatigue.
Heroin
Heroin is also called Smack, H, Horse, Junk, Harry and White Lady. Heroin is a
painkiller processed from morphine, which comes from the opium poppy plant.

Pure heroin is a white powder, but street heroin is brownish white. This highly
addictive drug is usually injected, but could also be snorted, smoked or inhaled.

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Heroin could relieve tension, anxiety, and depression, including physical distress
or pain.
LSD
Also known as Acid or Hippie, LSD is a semi-synthetic drug made from lysergic
acid, which is found in a fungus that grows on rye and other grains.

Dealers often sell it in squares of blotting paper with drops containing the drug, but
also in the form of tablets, capsules, and liquid. The colorless and odorless drug is
often swallowed and has a slightly bitter taste.

According to the UNODC, LSD use leads to strong changes in thought, mood, and
senses, along with feelings of empathy and sociability. Its exact effects, however,
vary, depending on the mental state of the user and the environment when taking
the drug.
Side effects of drug addiction may include:
 A weakened immune system, increasing the risk of illness and infection
 Heart conditions ranging from abnormal heart rates to heart attacks and
collapsed veins and blood vessel infections from injected drugs
 Nausea and abdominal pain, which can also lead to changes in appetite and
weight loss
 Increased strain on the liver, which puts the person at risk of significant liver
damage or liver failure
 Seizures, stroke, mental confusion and brain damage
 Lung disease
 Problems with memory, attention and decision-making, which make daily
living more difficult
 Global effects of drugs on the body, such as breast development in men and
increases in body temperature, which can lead to other health problems
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Withdrawal Symptoms
According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, general
withdrawal symptoms may include:
 Shakiness
 Digestive upset or loss of appetite
 Headaches
 Sweating
 Anxiety
 Insomnia
 Fatigue
 Depression and irritability
The truth is that most of these withdrawal symptoms are not deadly though
withdrawal symptoms for any type of addiction can be extremely uncomfortable
and easier to handle in a medical detox program. However, a few groups of

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addictive substances, there is a risk of death from the symptoms of withdrawal

Treatment
Treatment for withdrawal includes support, care, and medications that can ease
symptoms and prevent possible complications.
With some substances, people are able to stop their use abruptly and manage their
withdrawal symptoms on their own. For example, a person may be able to quit
caffeine without assistance and cope with the unpleasant symptoms on their own
until they pass.
 But abruptly quitting substances such as benzodiazepines or alcohol can be
potentially dangerous, so always consult your doctor to come up with a
detox plan. Medically-assisted withdrawal can ensure that you are safe and
help to minimize unpleasant withdrawal symptoms
 Ask for help. Whether you are handling withdrawal on your own or under
the supervision of a doctor, it is important to have social support. Tell a
trusted friend or family member so that they can check-in and support you
during the process.
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 Eat well. Focus on eating nutritious, well-balanced meals. Eating fried,

fatty, or sugary foods may make you feel worse.
Exercise. Try to get some physical activity each day. Stretching, walking,
swimming, or other activities may help boost your mood

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