145 city employees subjected to drug test

CEBU, Philippines — As part of the city’s effort to make Cebu City Hall a drug-free workplace, the Cebu City Office for Substance Abuse Prevention (COSAP) has conducted random drug test to at least 145 employees under parks and playground and peace and order program (POP) offices yesterday.

COSAP head Garry Lao told reporters that this is a continued effort of the city government to make City Hall free from drugs.

This is also among the efforts of the city government to support the present administration in its campaign against illegal drugs.

A memorandum was issued dated May 4, 2018, mandating all City Hall workers to undergo drug test.

Section 36 (d) of the Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002 mandates all public and private employees shall be subjected to undergo random drug test.

As provided under Article 282 of the Labor Code and pertinent provisions of Civil Service Commission, any employee found positive of drug usage will be suspended or terminated from service.

Record shows that 1,464 city employees from 18 offices have undergone drug test already.

These offices include COSAP, Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW), assessors’ office, accounting office, Management Information and Computer Services, and City Planning and Development Office.

Other offices are Department of Social Welfare and Services, Human Resource Development Office, City Budget Office, and Division for the Welfare of the Urban Poor, among others.

From January to May this year, 28 employees were found positive of drug use.

According to Lao, the result of the drug test will be out today. Those urine samples that will be found positive will be subjected to a confirmatory test in Manila.

Meanwhile, COSAP will resume facilitating surprise drug test in barangays anytime soon. — MBG (FREEMAN)