Manila, Philippines – Following the recent controversy over alleged use of marijuana inside the Senate chambers, Senators have already made counter-measures to ensure cleanliness and integrity of the upper chamber.
In Senator Raffy Tulfo’s end, he and his 54 office staff had undergo voluntary drug testing last August 20.
He noted that if he tested positive from the test, he will immediately resign from his post.
After this move, Tulfo is not eyeing to file a legal measure to implement random drug testing on all incumbent government officials.
This measure aims to institutionalize random drug testing among all incumbent elective and appointive officials in the country.
Through this, Tulfo aims to strengthen integrity and accountability in the government.
Aside from securing public trust, this measure intends to send a strong message that individuals involved in drug use and abuse have no place in public service.
“Kung walang tinatago, walang dapat ikatakot. This is about protecting the integrity of our institutions and making sure our leaders are truly serving the people,” Tulfo said.
Earlier, Senator Robinhood Padilla filed Senate Bill No. 1200 or the Drug-free government act seeking to institutionalize annual mandatory tests for all officials, including election candidates.
Malacañang, however, turned down the idea, saying that it is unconstitutional by law.
Citing Supreme Court’s 2008 ruling on Korte sa Social Justice Society (SJS) vs. Dangerous Drugs Board, mandatory drugs tests on election candidates is a violation of the law as it endangers privacy of an individual.
Tulfo, on the other hand, said that they will thoroughly consider the points ruled in this SC decision to avoid conflict with existing jurisprudence.—Mia Layaguin, Eurotv News