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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Legarda imposes mandatory drug testing for staff

Legarda imposes mandatory drug testing for staff

Published Aug 19, 2025 10:59 am

At A Glance

  • Sen. Loren Legarda, a member of the Senate minority bloc, made the assurance amid recent drug-related allegations involving a Senate employee.
Senator Loren Legarda said on Tuesday, August 19 she has mandated drug testing for her staff as part of an effort to demonstrate transparency and accountability in public service.
Legarda, a member of the Senate minority bloc, made the assurance amid recent drug-related allegations involving a Senate employee.
"The public deserves a Senate that sets an example. We act with concrete actions to uphold our role as a model of integrity and professionalism,” Legarda said.
She said the drug testing will be conducted in coordination with authorized agencies, in full compliance with civil service and health regulations.
All staff members, she said, are directed to fully comply pursuant to a Memorandum issued on Monday by the four-term Senator.
The senator emphasized that any findings from the tests will be handled with due process, and appropriate actions will be taken should any staff test positive.
“By taking this step, we ensure that my office has zero tolerance for illegal drugs and is fully committed to good governance and accountability,” she said.
She further cited another memorandum which her staff are reminded to adhere strictly: the Workplace Policy on Prohibited Substances and Activities.
The policy strictly prohibits within the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, within any property owned by the Senator, and within the Senate premises: the use, possession or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances, consumption of alcoholic beverages, vaping or use of electronic cigarettes, smoking of any kind and gambling of any form.
“This policy will be strictly enforced to maintain a safe, healthy, and productive workplace environment and to uphold the highest standards of efficiency, integrity, and professionalism in public service,” she stressed.
Earlier, Sen. Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri and his staff underwent mandatory drug testing following reports a staff of Sen. Robinhood "Robin" Padilla is being investigated for allegedly using marijuana within Senate premises. 
Nadia Montenegro, Padilla's staff in question, has tendered her resignation following the incident. 

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Loren Legarda Robin Padilla Drug testing mandatory drug testing
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