LPG sector supports anti-drug drive

CEBU, Philippines — The government's anti-illegal drugs campaign has received a significant boost from the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry, with Republic Gas Corporation (REGASCO) leading the charge in lending its support.

As a prominent player in the energy sector, REGASCO shows its firm stand to this vital cause by doing its duties to assure a drug-free workforce as the nation unites against the scourge of illegal drugs.

Recently, several of their employees in its Cebu branches tested positive after the company conducted a random drug testing.

After testing positive in the drug test, the company in a statement said that they are taking the necessary steps in accordance with the country’s labor code to implement the appropriate actions based on existing policies.

“Dahil nga gusto naming masigurado na ang kumpanya ay sumusunod sa policy ng gobyerno lalo ang paglaban sa paggamit ng illegal drugs sa workplace, ginagawa namin ang ganitong random drug test at mayroon na rin kaming mga nahakandang proseso sa mga magpopositibo,” said Leslie Yu, REGASCO’s vice president for operations.

It said that the activity is a priority of the company, being one of the top three LPG importers in the country that is actively engaged in the government's anti-illegal drugs campaign.

Yu added that with a strong commitment to social responsibility and community well-being, the company aims to make a meaningful impact in the fight against illegal drugs.

Yu also emphasized the importance of a drug free workplace in the sector that delivers safe and proper handling of LPG.

Recently, the company took the lead in organizing the inaugural LPG regional summit, encompassing 13 regions across the country, in collaboration with the Department of Energy (DOE).

The summit addressed the significance of RA 11592, commonly known as The LPG Law, and also delved into the implementation of drug-free workplace policies within the industry's workforce.

“The company is contributing to this campaign through various initiatives, including public awareness programs, support for rehabilitation centers, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies. This demonstrates the company's dedication to creating a safer and healthier environment for all citizens,” Yu further said.

In these challenging times, the company said that it understands the importance of coming together to combat the grave issue of illegal drugs.

“The company's support for the government's campaign is a testament to its commitment to the well-being and security of the nation,” it further said.

COP HURT

In a separate incident, a policeman was injured during a buy-bust operation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Unit of Talamban Police Station 8 on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023 in Purok 5, Barangay San Jose, Cebu City.

Police Major Janilito Marquez, who led the operation, said that when they conducted a buy-bust operation against a certain alias Eke, the suspect realized that he was making a transaction with a police. He suddenly pulled out a gun and shot the policeman.

The identity of the injured policeman, who posed as the buyer during the operation, has been kept confidential. He was hit on the left side of the leg and was immediately brought to the Cebu City Medical Center.

The police recovered shabu weighing 1.5 grams worth P10,200. The evidence was taken to the Cebu City Forensic Unit for chemical analysis.

Meanwhile, an ex-convict was once again arrested in a buybust operation and was allegedly caught with P1.7 million worth of drugs.

Andrian Aligam Aro 24, a resident of Alaska Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City was arrested in a buy-bust operation by the Drug Enforcement Unit of the Talisay City Police led by Police Lt. Col Wayne Magbanua Tuesday night, November 7,2023 in Purok Kapayas Kimba Barangay San Roque, Talisay City.

The police earlier monitored Aro’s activities to verify reports that he can dispose a kilo of shabu every week. His area of operations was reportedly in the cities of Cebu and Talisay.

According to Aro, he was imprisoned for a drug-related case in 2019 and was released in August 2022.

During the operation, various packages of alleged shabu weighing 255 grams worth more than P1.7 million pesos was recovered from Aro.

He is currently being held at the custodial facility of the Talisay City Police Station and a case will be filed against him for violation of Sec.5 and 11 Art 2 RA 9165. — /ATO (FREEMAN)