Sparkle artists named ambassadors of DILG's anti-drug campaign

Several artists of Sparkle GMA Artist Center have been named part of the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s Buhay Ingatan, Droga'y Ayawan (BIDA) Campaign.

The BIDA Campaign aims to combat the proliferation of illegal drugs and substances in the Philippines.

The artists signed a memorandum of agreement at the GMA Network Center on Friday.

Present were Radson Flores, Will Ashley, Sofia Pablo, Allen Ansay, Ysabel Ortega, Bianca Umali, Sanya Lopez, Ashley Ortega, Derrick Monasterio, Elle Villanueva, and Rabiya Mateo, who are now the faces of the campaign.

Executives GMA Network Senior Vice President for Programming, Talent Management, Worldwide, and Support Group and CEO of GMA Films Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes; Sparkle Vice President Joy Marcelo, and DILG Secretary Hon. Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. attended the event.

Abalos said in his opening remarks that with the Sparkle artists’ platforms and large followings, they can positively influence the youth and they can make a difference.

In an interview with GMA News Online following the MOA signing, Bianca said that being part of the campaign brings to life her belief in the saying, “With great power comes great responsibility.”

“My priority is to use the platforms and the power and the influence I'm given to you know, influence especially the youth in things like this,” Bianca said. “I do think part of my purpose in life is to really be able to [be] part of things like this.”

Ysabel is also grateful to be part of the campaign. “Not only is it advocating for the betterment ng lahat ng tao but at the same time, it's totally achievable. Like what I said before, I believe in it, I support [it] and I am so ready to advocate kasi I really believe in the advocacy.”

Radson likewise is very thankful to be one of the ambassadors to use his platform to make positive change. “Feeling ko madami akong matutulong as an artist and an influencer under ng BIDA Campaign ng DILG and Sparkle.” —JCB, GMA Integrated News