Filipino Actor Jericho Rosales has confessed to having succumbed to drugs during his teens. He said that drug abuse has been at the root of so much difficulties that he has encountered in his life.
The revelation came during an interview with Philippine newspaper Philippine Daily Inquirer after five people died from drug use in a recent concert held in the Philippines. The deaths came at a time when drug use is under the spotlight in the country. According to the award winning actor, he resorted to drugs during the time that his parents were having marital difficulties which eventually led to the couple's separation.
The actor admits that he was lucky and thankful that he was able to stop in time and shake the habit due to the guidance of good friends. He emphasized the importance of having the right guidance from peers during one's teenage years when people are prone to picks up habits like drug use.
The actor said that understands the need of teens to have fun but stressed that taking drugs is not the answer. Rosales had a piece of advice for kids: "Go to church rather than take drugs. It is much cooler".
Rosales also stated that he will support and take part in the anti-drug campaign of Philippine President-Elect Duterte, who has been known for his tough stance against illegal drugs. He, however, clarified that he does not support killing people who are suspected of pushing or selling drugs. The actor stressed that extra-judicious killing should not be tolerated. It is known in the Philippines that the incoming president has been vocal about killing drug pushers.
Stressing that the drug problem is a serious one and everyone should be contributing to resolve it, Rosales encouraged all Filipinos to practice responsibility and for the law to be strictly implemented to win the war on drugs.