SLSU Hosts Student Leaders' Forum on Peace and Development in Partnership with DILG Provincial Office

Southern Leyte State University hosted the Student Leaders' Forum on Peace Issues and Government Efforts in Attaining Resilient and Inclusive Development on September 17, 2025, at the SLSU Ballroom. 

The forum was attended by officials from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the 14th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and the Provincial Health Office (PHO), who led discussions on pressing issues concerning peace, public safety, and community wellness.

Representing SLSU were Vice President for Students and Auxiliary Services Dr. Marie Khul C. Langub and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Constantino Medilo Jr., along with other administrators. Seventy-five student leaders from the main campus and twenty-five from the external campuses also participated.

During the forum, presentations from guest agencies highlighted critical concerns such as the deceptive recruitment strategies of the Communist Terrorist Group, the prevailing drug situation in the province, and the importance of the Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program in supporting grassroots-level recovery and prevention.

CPL Gerry C. Luna of the 14th Infantry Battalion detailed the recruitment process of the Communist Party of the Philippines, the National Democratic Front, and the New People's Army.

A PDEA representative also discussed the urgency of addressing the province's drug challenges. Meanwhile, Vilma L. Grate, CBDRP and Mental Health Focal Officer, underscored the importance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention advocacy in promoting safer and more resilient communities.

By accommodating this forum, SLSU has shown its commitment to supporting collaborative efforts between government agencies and the youth sector.

The engagement provided student leaders with opportunities to deepen their understanding of peace and development issues while strengthening their role as advocates for inclusive and resilient communities.