One of the 40 employees of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) tested positive for narcotic use in a random drug test conducted at the Cebu Provincial Capitol yesterday.
Joey Herrera, executive director of the Cebu Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Commission (CPADAC), said that they conduct random drug test every Monday.
“PENRO was randomly selected. I am hoping that this division is drug free because its role is critical. Most employees are on field enforcing the law,” said Herrera.
Of the 40 employees, three didn’t show up. Initial results showed one male employee tested positive for drug use. Victor Santinas, a monitoring officer, said he has nothing against random drug testing as it will reveal who are the drug users among government employees.
“Presence during the drug test and the results will be part of the evaluation for their renewal of contract,” said PENRO head lawyer Chad Estella.
Estella has already requested for a surprise drug test in his department.
Estella said that those who were absent will not be recommended for renewal.
“There are too many people who need job and no employee is indispensable. My stand is that there should be no drug addicts in PENRO office,” said Estella.
The one who tested positive may contest the result and he will be given due process through the Committee on Discipline and Investigation (CODI). /with CNU Intern Rosemarie R. Cananea
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