A prominent lawyer has criticized the proposed congressional bill that aims to impose mandatory random drug testing on all government officials, labeling it as an insult to public servants.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo Cauayan, Atty. Domingo Cayosa, former president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, suggested that while voluntary random drug testing for election candidates could be feasible, the mandatory nature of the proposal might be problematic. He expressed concern that such a measure reflects a troubling perception that illegal drug use is widespread among politicians.
Cayosa argued that if there is substantial evidence or reasonable suspicion of drug use among specific individuals, administrative actions or lifestyle investigations should be pursued instead of a blanket policy affecting all officials. He emphasized that the proposal undermines the integrity of the many public servants who are dedicated and drug-free, reducing them to the status of drug suspects.
He also indicated that this bill could be seen as a political jab at President Ferdinand Marcos, who has recently faced accusations of cocaine use from former President Rodrigo Duterte. According to Cayosa, the implementation of this policy could damage the country’s image, leading to ridicule of lawmakers who are supposed to set an example for the public.
Cayosa concluded that a more effective approach would be to target drug testing specifically at those suspected of drug involvement rather than imposing it on the entire government workforce.
Rep. Paolo Duterte of Davao City’s 1st District has filed a new bill, House Bill 10744, which proposes mandatory random drug testing for all elected and appointed officials, including the President of the Philippines.
The bill aims to amend Republic Act 9165, known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, by establishing a biannual drug testing requirement for public officials. Under this proposed legislation, screening tests will be conducted using hair follicle samples, while confirmatory tests will be carried out through urine samples.
According to a news release from Duterte’s office, the bill seeks to ensure that drug testing policies apply uniformly across all levels of government, reinforcing accountability and transparency. The proposal includes testing for high-ranking officials, underscoring a commitment to a drug-free administration.