
DOH Regional Local Health Support Division Chief Jimuel S. Cardenas and Malasiqui Municipal Health Officer Marlo P. De Guzman mark the opening of the “Bisyo Skeri Maze” by cutting the ceremonial ribbon during yesterday’s launching at the Arenas Civic Center in Malasiqui, Pangasinan.
THE Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region together with the Local Government of Malasiqui, Pangasinan yesterday opened the “Bisyo Skeri Maze” at the Arenas Civic Center which showcases scary pictures on the ill effects of smoking, too much drinking, and illicit use of drugs while treating kids with scare, fun and games.
Guest of Honor and Regional Local Health Support Division Chief Jimuel S. Cardenas said that Halloween is not just for kids anymore but also for teens and adults alike. “And during this long vacation, we launched this activity for parents and their children to have an alternative destination where they can learn the side effects of smoking, alcohol and drug abuse.”
“Ito’y upang magkaroon sila ng tamang kaalaman kung paano ito maiiwasan at ang kasamaang dulot nito sa kanilang katawan at kalusugan. I encourage all parents to talk openly about vices such as smoking, drugs and alcohol with their children, especially at home, because it affects their health and well-being.”
“Kailangan lahat ng pagtuturo at gabay ay magmumula sa ating mga tahanan at ang mga magulang ang syang pinakamabisang ehemplo sa kanilang mga anak,” Cardenas stated.
The “Bisyo Skeri Maze” is designed as a labyrinth where scare effects and other decorations for Halloween are hung plus graphic photos of various diseases caused by smoking, alcohol and illicit drugs pasted on the walls for visitors to see.
A total of 100 partakers actively participated in the event, including parents and their children. Seniors also joined and curiously visited the maze.
Malasiqui Municipal Health Officer Marlo P. De Guzman emphasized that awareness activities such as this one provide an avenue where the family can impart proper information on responsible alcohol use, avoiding illegal substances, and the importance of sober behavior.
“Actions speak louder than words, and children who see their parents and elders involved in positive and healthy activities can influence their habits and behaviour. Kung baga kung ano ang nakikita nila sa bahay, ‘yun ang ginagaya nila at kung ano ang kanilang kinalakihang pag-uugali ay dadalhin nila sa kanilang pagtanda. That’s why we have to teach our children everything that is good,” De Guzman stressed.
“The “Bisyo Skeri Maze” is part of the DOH community health promotion playbook for the Month of November. Other activities include “Beat the Bisyo Race” which will be conducted in the town of Agno and the “Health and Wellness Fair” in Infanta, both in the province of Pangasinan.
The event will still be available for the public until this weekend for other sightseers to visit.