Manila, Philippines – Following the issue on alleged use of marijuana inside the chambers of the Senate, Senator Robinhood Padilla was among those who took a direct hit from the controversy.
This is because the name pointed out to be allegedly involved in the incident was of his political affairs officer—former actress Nadia Montenegro.
Since the incident, Montenegro has resigned from the post as the issue affected her mental health and of her family, dismissing the accusations as false.
Amidst the issue, the call for a mandatory random drug testing among Senate staff have been stronger, with Senate Minority leader Vicente Tito Sotto’s similar recommendation.
On his end, Padilla filed on Monday Senate bill no. 1200 or the Drug-Free Government Act seeking the institutionalization of annual mandatory drug tests for all public officials.
Under the bill, all government officials, including the president of the Philippines, shall undergo a hair follicle test for initial screening, and a urine drug test for confirmation.
Padilla noted that this measure is a concrete preventive and accountability tool to protect health and secure public trust.
While the bill is still in its early stages, Malacañang Palace has immediately turned down the idea.
At Tuesday’s press briefing, Palace Press officer Atty. Claire Castro noted that the proposed mandatory drug testing on all public officials is a violation of the constitution.
Castro cited the Supreme Court 2008 ruling stating that Section 36 (f) RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 mandating all public officials must undergo mandatory drug tests is unconstitutional.
She likewise urged Padilla to thoroughly study his proposed bill.
SEN. RAFFY TULFO, LEGARDA OK WITH DRUG TEST
On the other hand, more senators have expressed support for Sotto’s recommendation for a mandatory drug test in the Senate.
On Tuesday, Senator Raffy Tulfo’ office underwent a drug test, including himself and all of his 54 office staff.
If a positive result comes back, Tulfo noted that the staff will be immediately fired, and that he will resign if his results come back as positive.
Senator Loren Legarda likewise mandated all her office staff to undergo a drug test.
She said that this move is for the Senate to set an example to the public about integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
Senator Migz Zubiri on Monday went for a drug test, with his results expected next week.—Mia Layaguin, Eurotv News