International school frowns at random drug tests for students

MANILA, Philippines - An international school in the country on Monday said the random drug tests currently being conducted by the government for students is not an effective solution to the rising drug problem among Filipino youth. In a statement, Reedley International School said that although laudable, drug tests will not provide students the proper tools to cope with drug addiction. "Random drug testing is laudable, but it's just a cosmetic way of identifying how many addicts we have right now," said RIS director for school development Emil Ong. Ong said the best way to approach the menacing drug problem is for schools to teach life-skills to students. "Life-skills is a program where students learn the best tools to strengthen their character and leadership skills, and enhance relationships with peers, parents, and society," Ong said. The program emphasizes three things: values formation, self-regulation, and working with others, all of which significantly contribute to shaping competent, integral and consequently, successful individuals. "Many students lack the decision-making skills needed to enable them to cope with life's challenges. Without options, many of them succumb to hallucinogens to escape from the pressures of everyday life," Ong said. The school official added that building character, values and equipping students with the right tools to self-management will greatly help in weaning students away from drugs. - GMANews.TV