The Student Crime and Accident Prevention Council (SCAPC) of Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University – Institute of Criminal Justice Education (DMMMSU ICJE) was honored as one of the leading Local Youth Development Council (LYDC) organizations in San Fernando City, La Union.

The award was given to John Wendell Graycochea, SCAPC President and a fourth-year DMMMSU Mid La Union Campus criminology student. The award was presented during the State of the Youth Address (SOYA) 2024 and OSKAR Night, part of the Linggo ng Kabataan 2024 celebrations, held at the Vista La Vita Resort in San Vicente.

The award is a manifestation of the council’s dedication to community service, leadership, and advocacy for positive change. Under his leadership, the SCAPC has significantly impacted the youth of San Fernando, aligning with the values and mission of the Local Youth Development Council.

Vice Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega, Congressman Francisco Paolo Ortega V of the first district of La Union, City Mayor Hermenegilda Gualberto, and City Vice Mayor Alfredo Pablo Ortega, all of whom delivered keynote addresses, graced the occasion.

SCAPC’s core mission is to improve the safety and well-being of students by promoting crime prevention and accident awareness and to foster safer school environments through proactive education and community engagement programs. By implementing effective strategies, SCAPC actively builds a safer student environment.

The SOYA event provided a platform to address important youth issues such as education, employment, health, and civic engagement, fostering dialogue between young people and policymakers. This engagement is essential in shaping policies that promote the well-being of youth and addressing their concerns in the city.

Through its ongoing efforts, SCAPC is equipping students with the knowledge and tools to prevent and address both criminal and accidental situations, ensuring a safer and brighter future for the youth of San Fernando, La Union. (By Ayu)