Photo : Rappler
Bacolod City- The Bacolod City government has taken proactive steps to ensure a drug-free bureaucracy following recent findings of drug use among security and traffic personnel. A series of random drug tests conducted since last week has revealed drug users among city employees, prompting city officials to address the issue promptly.
City Administrator Pacifico Maghari III announced that while an ordinance requiring mandatory drug testing for all local government workers is still under deliberation, the city government is strongly encouraging all officials and employees to voluntarily undergo drug testing. He stressed that eventually, everyone will be subjected to testing to uphold a drug-free work environment.
Data from the tests conducted from July 28 to August 1 indicated that out of 663 employees, at least 53 workers assigned to the Bacolod Traffic Authority Office (BTAO) and Public Order and Safety Office (POSO) tested positive for illegal drug use. This discovery has raised concerns among city officials.
Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez showed his commitment to address the issue transparently. To set an example for all, Mayor Benitez voluntarily submitted himself to a urine rapid drug test, which yielded negative results, demonstrating his support for a drug-free city government.
Mayor Benitez stated that measures will be implemented to identify employees engaged in illegal substances, starting with BTAO and POSO. He believes such initiatives are essential to ensure public confidence in government servants and maintain a drug-free working environment.
The Mayor clarified that those who tested positive would face termination and be referred for drug rehabilitation. He mentioned that if individuals show improvement and complete the rehabilitation program successfully, they may be reconsidered for re-employment.
Primitivo Tabujara, the head of POSO, expressed support for the drug testing initiative. He emphasized the importance of having drug-free personnel performing front-line duties and recommended temporary termination for those who tested positive. He added that the city government provides a free rehabilitation program to support employees in their journey towards recovery and re-employment.
