KOROR, Palau — President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. declared December 2024 through February 2025 as Red Ribbon Awareness Months under the theme, “Life is a Movie, Live Drug Free.” The proclamation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat illegal drug misuse and abuse, which continue to harm individuals, families, and communities across the nation.
The proclamation highlights the devastating impacts of illegal drug use and polysubstance abuse, which are often linked to injury-related deaths such as suicides, vehicle crashes, brawls, and drownings.
“Let me cite some statistics to give us an idea of the enormity of the problem facing us. From 2019 to 2022, there were a total of 1,270 car accidents, an average of 254 accidents per year. From 2018 to 2022, there were 4 deaths from these accidents,” said President Surangel Whipps Jr. of the reason behind the movement.
In his statement, President Whipps emphasized the urgency of unified community action to protect lives and prevent drug-related harm.
“Red Ribbon Awareness offers an opportunity for our youth, families, and communities to renew their commitment to living drug-free lifestyles,” Whipps said. He called on all citizens to actively participate in prevention activities and to act as role models in their communities.
The proclamation encourages individuals and organizations—ranging from families and schools to businesses, healthcare providers, and religious groups—to display red ribbons and engage in drug prevention education efforts.
Youths and individuals signed pledges to stay drug free and stand against drug misuse.
The government plans to leverage Red Ribbon Awareness as a visible reminder of the importance of making informed choices, particularly among young people. President Whipps urged everyone to use the three-month observance as a platform to strengthen community ties and take a stand against drug misuse year-round. (By: L.N. Reklai)