Surprise drug testing for Mandaluyong cops

Displaying its resolve in the total war on illegal drugs, the Mandaluyong City government conducted yesterday surprise drug tests on its 240-strong police force.

"How can we say that we are dead serious in our war against illegal drugs if the police themselves, who are tasked to implement the program, are suspected of being involved in drugs," said Mandaluyong City Mayor Benhur Abalos.

Abalos pointed out that Section 36 of the Republic Act 9165, known as the Dangerous Drugs Act, mandates the holding of annual drug tests on all government employees.

"So this is actually mandatory for all police personnel," said Abalos, adding those found positive would either be rehabilitated or their cases forwarded to the Civil Service Commission (CSC) for proper disposal.

The policemen were attending an anti-terrorism seminar at the conference room of the police headquarters located inside the Maysilo Circle along Barangay Barangka Drive when Abalos and a 10-man medical team, headed by Dr. Alfredo Lo, director of the Medical Center arrived at about 9:30 a.m.

When Abalos announced the surprise drug test, Superintendent Antonio Aguilar, Mandaluyong City police deputy chief for administration, ordered the posting of guards at all doors to prevent policemen from leaving. Also included in the drug testing were elements of the city’s traffic division.

Lo also assigned a medical technologist in the comfort room to prevent switching of urine samples.

The medical official said results of the tests will be out in a week’s time, adding that Abalos has promised to shoulder the P300 cost of each test.

Earlier, Abalos ordered a drug testing of 1,825 high school students in the city. At least six students were found positive.

"Our drug testing effort will be a confirming effort until we rid Mandaluyong City of illegal drugs," Abalos said.