11 barangay personnel positive for shabu

CEBU, Philippines – At least 11 have been found positive for using illegal drugs during random drug tests conducted by the Cebu City Office for Substance Abuse Prevention among officials and employees of five barangays last month.

COSAP executive assistant Felix Lazarte said that of the 11, one comes from barangay Cogon Ramos, six from barangay Lorega, one from barangay T. Padilla, and three from barangay Calamba.

COSAP tested 200 random respondents in surprise drug tests. No one was found positive in barangay Labangon.

Last year, COSAP tested 913 individuals and 24 were found positive. In 2007, 12 were found positive out of the 895 respondents while five came out positive out of 827 respondents in 2006.

Lazarte said those found positive have already been charged administratively.

Aside from the random drug tests in barangays, Lazarte said COSAP is also conducting workshops and seminars to educate the public on the dangers of using illegal drugs.

“Demand reduction activities are strengthened since atong target are the next victim or would be drug abusers,” Lazarte said.

On the creative side, COSAP also organized concerts and variety shows aimed at addressing the drug menace.

Commenting on the random drug tests among schools, Lazarte said it would help a lot if guidance counselors are properly trained in handling students who are using drugs. — Ferliza C. Contratista/JMO (THE FREEMAN)