Photo from MACHRA/MANILA BULLETIN
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan said on Wednesday, July 26, that she will issue a memorandum to city government employees who would fail to undergo the mandatory drug testing. Lacuna-Pangan also reminded them that they only have until Friday, July 28, to avail the mandatory testing. "Ipinapaalala sa lahat na kailangan ninyong magpa-drug test kasi po ang 'di magpapa-test ay ating bibigyan ng memo to explain bakit 'di kayo nagpapa-drug test (Everyone is reminded that you need to take the mandatory drug test. Those who will not take the test will be given a memo to explain why you are not taking the drug test)," the mayor said. "Kung wala kayong dapat ikatakot, magpa-drug test kayo (If you have nothing to fear, take a drug test)," she added. The mayor explained that the drug testing is in accordance with the provision stated in Civil Service Commission (CSC) M.C. No. 13 series of 2017 or the Mandatory Random Drug Test for Public Officials and Employees. CSC is the agency of the Philippine government that creates policies, plans and programs concerning all the civil service employees. The drug testing in Manila City Hall started last July 10. With over 8,000 drug testing kits, the mayor urged all city employees to take the drug test. "Ito po ay ginagawa natin para i-promote ang ligtas at drug-free working environment dito sa loob ng City Hall (We are doing this to promote a safe and drug-free working environment here inside the City Hall)," Lacuna-Pangan said. She also noted that the city government is still evaluating the rules for employees who cannot undergo the drug testing because of problems in producing urine needed for drug testing. Meanwhile, employees who will be tested positive for illegal drug use will be referred for confirmatory testing and will undergo rehabilitation once it is confirmed. As public servants, she said the city employees must serve as role models and avoid getting involved in illegal drugs.