Sotto surprises Senate staff with random mandatory drug test

Senate President Vicente Sotto III has announced the conduct of a random mandatory drug test for Senate employees.

Sotto notified the Senate staff about the random drug test during the flag raising ceremony early Monday.

“I have been informed that as part of the Senate’s commitment to a drug-free environment and workplace, pursuant to our revised policy and guidelines, there will be a random mandatory drug testing to be conducted today (Monday, July 30),” Sotto said.

He added he would be the first to take the drug test.

“To show my support for the mandatory drug test, I have decided to undergo drug-testing myself today. I will be the first in line,” the Senate leader said.

According to Sotto, a five-panel drug test will be used on chosen Senate employees to screen for all types of illegal drugs.

“I urge those who will be called to submit themselves, tutal random naman to ensure a drug-free workplace,” he said.

Sotto said Senators may or may not take the drug test as it is only mandatory for rank and file employees of the Senate.

“Pwede kung gusto nila kasi it’s not only part of the RA 9165, which mandates a drug-free work place, but also there is a CSC (Civil Service Commission) circular about it kaya magandang ipinatutupad natin ito. Magandang example ang senador,” he noted.

Also during the flag raising ceremony, Sotto announced the release of the P5,000 grocery and transport allowance to all Senate employees effective July 1, 2018.   /kga