By Roselle R. Aquino
INFANTA, Quezon – In consonance with Mayor L.A. Ruanto’s Executive Order No. 10 declaring a drug-free workplace within the local government, a surprise drug test was conducted to all municipal officials and employees on Monday, July 21.
Employees were caught off guard, as the drug test was implemented right after the order was signed.
Nobody was allowed to leave the covered court plaza, and no one managed to escape the testing.
Mayor Ruanto emphasized the importance of the government leading by example in the campaign against illegal drugs.
He assured that there would be no favoritism, regardless of position.
According to Mayor Ruanto, a one-strike policy will be enforced wherein job order employees who tested positive for illegal drug use will be immediately terminated.
On the other hand, in line with Civil Service Commission guidelines, permanent employees who tested positive may be recommended for rehabilitation.
The duration of stay in the facility will depend on the severity of the individual’s condition.
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) assisted in conducting the tests in accordance with Section 36 of Republic Act 9165 which mandates random drug testing to promote a safe and drug-free workplace.
This is the first time in the municipality’s history that a drug-free workplace declaration has been made following an election, aiming to once and for all eliminate those involved in illegal drugs within the local government.
Police Major Fernando Credo, chief of the Infanta Municipal Police Station, said the mayor’s declaration significantly strengthens their fight against illegal drugs, giving more teeth to law enforcement in curbing criminal activities.
He noted that one major challenge for authorities is the municipality’s many exit points, including an extended coastal area, which could potentially be used by drug pushers as entry or escape routes.
Credo assured the public that the police will intensify surveillance in identified drug hotspots and triple their efforts to put an end to illegal drug activities in Infanta.
