Count rises to 37:16 more CH workers fail in COSAP drug test

CEBU, Philippines —  The number of Cebu City Hall workers who tested positive for illegal drug use has increased to 37.

In a surprise drug test that the City Office for Substance Abuse Prevention (COSAP) had conducted last November 18 to 21, 16 workers failed in the surprise screening.

The 16 workers include nine from the Department of Engineering and Public Works; three from the Department of Manpower, Development and Placement; and four from the Department of Public Services.

Earlier, 21 workers were found positive for illegal drug use during the series of surprise drug tests that the COSAP had conducted starting last November 8.

The 21 workers include five from the Market Operations Division; 10 from the Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification, and Enforcement team; two from the Department of General Services; two from the Parks and Playground Committee; and one each from the City Registrar’s Office and the Operation Second Chance.

The City Legal Office already sent show-cause notices to these 21 workers.

They were directed to show cause in writing, preferably with the assistance of a counsel of their own choice, within 24 hours from receipt of the notice on why no appropriate disciplinary action should be taken against them for having been found to have used illegal drugs.

Mayor Edgardo Labella directed the CLO to investigate the city workers who tested positive for using illegal drugs during the series of drug tests conducted by COSAP earlier this month.

City Ordinance No. 1829 requires all employees of the city government of Cebu to undergo compulsory drug testing, as a pre-employment requirement, and annual random drug checkups.

Labella assured earlier that those who will be found using drugs will undergo due process.

The mayor warned, though, that they will be suspended or dismissed from service if initial tests are confirmed.

COSAP will carry on with the surprise drug tests among City Hall employees to make sure that the city government is drug-free, and to support the anti-drug campaign of President Rodrigo Duterte. GAN (FREEMAN)