drug test

A NON-COMMISSIONED officer of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) tested positive during a random drug screening conducted on Tuesday, Aug. 5.

DCPO acting chief Colonel Mannan Muarip confirmed the result during a media interview on Wednesday, stating that while the personnel’s identity and unit would not be revealed. 

However, he assured that they will take appropriate administrative and legal actions against one of their members.

“Unfortunately, we have one. I won’t mention who it is, but the preparation papers for this person are in place. This means they know what awaits them if they violate, particularly by testing positive during screening,” Muarip said. 

He also declined to name the officer’s specific unit.

The official, identified as a Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO), is the only one who has tested positive so far. The drug tests were conducted on both Tuesday and Wednesday. A non-commissioned officer refers to personnel holding a rank below a lieutenant.

Muarip described the process as a “surprise” to ensure fairness, while also being a “regular” part of the office’s routine to maintain a drug-free police force.

The police officer has been placed under the custody of the City Personnel Holding and Administrative Unit.

“That’s automatic. They are in our administrative holding unit here because we will still investigate, and they are subject to confirmatory tests,” Muarip added.

He reiterated the DCPO’s commitment to holding its members accountable. 

“It is a regular test to see to it that our policemen are drug-free, but unfortunately, it’s their personal choice. Since it happened, we will hold them accountable in accordance with the PNP rules and regulations for those personnel found to be positive in the use of illegal drugs,” he said.

Photo courtesy of Rhoda Grace B. Saron