NEWSFLASH

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WHOLESOME RICO YAN IS YOUTH SPOKESPERSON

Manila, Dec. 18, 1998 - Movie actor and TV personality Rico Yan is the new Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS) official youth cooperator and spokesperson on student affairs.

Rico was cited by DECS as a good role model for the youth for his support of student activities and perseverance to finish his studies at De La Salle University despite the pressures of show business. He graduated cum laude from DLSU with a degree in business management, major in marketing.

Rico's new role was announced by the DECS Center for Students and Co-Curricular Affairs (CSCA) during the "Youth Jam! Concert" held at the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC)-PhilSports Multi-Purpose Arena (formerly ULTRA) during the Education Week and National Filipino Youth Prayer Week Celebrations.

CSCA Executive Officer Joey Pelaez said Yan will work closely with them in its campaign against drug addiction, alcoholism, smoking, gambling and other vices which are prevalent among the youth today.

Pelaez said that a youth spokesperson with the stature and popularity of Yan would surely catch the attention of today's youth and help the DECS in its various information and education campaigns.

The ceremony was attended by DECS officials led by Education Secretary Bro. Andrew Gonzalez, FSC, Undersecretary Nilo L. Rosas and Undersecretary Victor Manhit. Around 6,000 youths, students and teachers throughout the National Capital Region and Region IV attended the event.