"Essay"

“Alcohol Intake of Minors”

As people grow up, they become more knowledgeable about the world. They try to discover new and exciting things. Being a minor (below 18 years old) means one is a step closer to adulthood. It is a stage when most people gain new experiences in life. It may either be good or bad. Well, most of these experiences are out of curiosity. Nowadays, consuming alcoholic beverages is one of the common things they try. Even here in the Philippines, it is very evident. Try asking a high school student if he/she has tasted alcohol, for sure he/she has something interesting to share.

The access to alcohol is the main reason for the alcohol intake of minors. Lenient monitoring and implementation of laws allow teenagers to buy alcoholic beverages with ease. Establishments like convenience stores and groceries are on a “strictly business” mode. They do not make sure that buyers are in the legal age. According to the Health Action Information Network, Drinking alcoholic beverages beyond one's capacity to the point of intoxication is a risky behaviour in which most young people get involved at some time. In a survey conducted by the University of the Philippines in 1994, 60 per cent or 5.3 million Filipino youths are said to be drinking alcoholic beverages.

Another factor related to the alcohol intake of minors is influence. From peer pressure to a creative television commercial, influence plays a role. It forces a person to believe something that is unreal. A friend can be very persuasive while a television ad can use a famous celebrity. All of these are techniques that blind us on the real results of alcohol intoxication. In addition, parents who approve drinking can also influence the mindset of an individual.

Underage drinking is a growing concern in the culture and social life of our country. It can cause adverse situations to occur. Not only that, it can also have a negative effect in the body. Constant drinking can lead to liver damage and can take a toll on one’s health. Especially during adolescence because it is the stage the body will continue to grow and develop. Drinking at an early age is killing the body slowly. Alcohol is like an addictive drug, “once tasted, always wanted”. It is a very bad habit that is hard to quit.

Today, alcohol is widely available and aggressively promoted throughout society. And alcohol use continues to be regarded, by many people, as a normal part of growing up. Yet underage drinking is dangerous, not only for the drinker but also for society, as evident by the number of alcohol-involved accidents, crimes, and other injuries. Let us all help in raising knowledge and awareness on alcohol intake of minors because they are the number one asset of our future. They hold the key in unlocking the feats of greatness that is yet to be witnessed by the world.