In its fourth year, Smashed Philippines has reached a landmark milestone, educating 90,000 Filipino students on the risks of underage drinking through theater and storytelling.
The program, implemented by the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA Plus) with the support of global beverage company Diageo, announced that it successfully met its 2024 target of engaging 20,000 students, reinforcing its commitment to youth empowerment and responsible decision-making.
“At Smashed Philippines, we believe that values education plays a pivotal role in empowering the youth to make informed and responsible choices. Through our engaging theater-based approach, we provide students with the tools to critically reflect on their decisions and understand the importance of self-respect, empathy, and accountability,” said Zoe Damag, Smashed PH Project Manager, in an email to RVA.
She added, “These lessons are universal and essential in shaping a generation that can navigate challenges with confidence and integrity.”
Results from post-program surveys reveal an 88% overall attitudinal change from September to December 2024.
Key metrics include a 60% increase in students' knowledge about underage drinking risks, a 31% increase in feeling equipped to make informed choices, and a 33% increase in knowing where to seek help for alcohol-related issues.
At the heart of Smashed is a groundbreaking approach that uses theater to engage and educate. The program features live performances where actors break the fourth wall, encouraging students to reflect on their choices in real time.
Writer J-mee Katanyag, who adapted the play for Filipino audiences, explained, “The play mirrors their lived experiences and empowers them to critically examine their choices. It’s not just cautionary—it’s compassionate.”
Students who participated in the program attest to its impact.
“Underage drinking can impact us and those around us,” said Josamie Claire Lopez, a Grade 9 student. “I learned about consent, the privilege to say no, and seeking help when needed. There are better ways to handle stress and pressure.”
Smashed is part of Diageo’s Society 2030: Spirit of Progress, a global commitment to positively impact society through education and sustainability initiatives.
The program was originally developed by Collingwood Learning in the UK and has reached over four million students in 38 countries.
Globally, Smashed aims to provide 10 million young people with unique educational experiences by 2030.
In the Philippines, Damag emphasized, “Through Smashed, we hope to empower students with the knowledge and skills they need to lead healthier, informed lives. The lessons they take from this program can shape their future for the better.”
As the program grows, PETA Plus and its partners remain committed to educating 300,000 Filipino youths by 2030, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for the nation.
“We are committed to fostering environments where young people feel supported and equipped to lead healthier lives, free from the pressures of underage drinking. By working closely with schools and communities, we aim to instill life skills that resonate deeply with the Filipino spirit-helping our youth grow into individuals who contribute meaningfully to their families and society,” said Damag.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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