Several senators have expressed support for proposed random drug testing within the Senate, following reports of alleged marijuana use inside its premises.
Senate Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III was the first to advocate for the measure.
He noted that during his tenure, random drug testing was regularly conducted among Senate employees and was available as an option for senators.
“Maganda ‘yun sapagkat mapipilitan ka umiwas dahil ‘pag nahuli ka siguradong suspendido ka or baka tanggal ka sa Senate,” he said.
He recalled that testing was conducted at least once a week, rotating across different offices.
He also mentioned a past incident where a lawyer was dismissed for refusing to undergo the test.
Sotto expressed shock and disappointment over the recent allegations, calling the situation extremely embarrassing.
“Sobrang nakakahiya yan…nakakahiya mga kababayan natin. Sa Senado pa, ang kapal naman nila,” he added.
On the other hand, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva said that he has consistently supported calls for random drug testing among all officials and staff of the Senate, regardless of who is serving as Senate President.
“I am confident that under the leadership of Senate President Chiz Escudero, this practice will continue, and I believe this is an opportune time to reaffirm our commitment to it as a means of upholding the integrity of the institution,” he said.
“On a personal note, I am open to undergo a drug test of any type. It is very important not only for us Senators but for all civil servants to lead by example,” he added.
Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa says it’s a “good move” to make sure that they have a drug-free workplace.
The Office of Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla has already called for an investigation into reports that one of his staff was caught smoking marijuana within the premises of the Senate.
In the latest development, Lawyer Rudolf Philip Jurado, Padilla’s chief-of-staff, said that the staff in question, Nadia Montenegro, was given five days until Tuesday to submit a written explanation.
He denied reports that she had already resigned and clarified that she is on leave.
Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. has instructed the Office of the Sergeant-At-Arms (OSAA) to immediately conduct an investigation into the matter. (Dhel Nazario)
