Schools serve as an ideal platform to educate and empower the next generation. In a recent effort to stop human trafficking in our country, HAPI-Cagayan de Oro successfully carried out anti-human trafficking education workshops at Agusan and Indahag High School. Johnny Denden, HAPI-CDO Lead Convenor, led the workshops where over 300 students participated. The goal is to equip young minds with knowledge, awareness, and resilience.
The speaker then facilitated a discussion on how to protect oneself against human trafficking. He highlighted the importance of being aware of the risks, being able to spot the indications of trafficking, and knowing how to report suspected cases. He also remarked on the significance of self-advocacy and knowing one’s rights.
In addition, participants in the play “The Straight Jacket” were fascinated, and it offered a stimulating experience beyond simple entertainment. It illustrated through its story the sneaky ways people might become caught up in unfair circumstances. The play made clear how critical it is to sustain healthy relationships, set clear boundaries, and be aware of the strategies used by traffickers. Participants were motivated to act, become watchful, and defend themselves and others by understanding the profound message presented by “The Straight Jacket.”
The workshops fostered a sense of activism and resiliency among the students by cultivating ideals of compassion, empathy, and social responsibility. With the knowledge and resources needed to promote reform, increase awareness, and actively participate in the fight against human trafficking, participants transformed into advocates. Their newfound understanding of the issue empowered them to serve as catalysts for positive change, both within their schools and the community as a whole.
HAPI-CDO remains committed to educating young people about human trafficking. As Denden stated during the workshops, “I believe that by educating young people about the issue, we empower them to make informed choices, break the chains of human trafficking and make a difference in our community.”
