FILE PHOTO: Senator Manny Pacquiao. INQUIRER photo
MANILA, Philippines — Presidential aspirant Sen. Manny Pacquiao on Friday said he will require government officials to undergo mandatory drug testing if he is elected in the 2022 elections.
This, after President Rodrigo Duterte’s claim that an aspirant for the country’s top post is a cocaine user.
Drug testing should be mandatory for anyone who wants to work in government, whether they are elected or appointed, according to Pacquiao.
“This will be a requirement in my administration without prejudice sa mga na-rehabilitate at talagang iniwanan na ang bisyo. Lahat naman po ay may karapatan na magbagong-buhay,” the senator said in a statement when sought for comment of Duterte’s allegations.
Pacquiqo, meanwhile, said he is willing to be drug tested.
“Although I’m not in a position to judge anyone on this issue, I am willing to undergo drug test anytime and anywhere,” he said.
“Sana ganyan din ang ating mga kapwa kandidato. Mas maganda kung hair follicle test para mas sigurado,” he added.
On Thursday night, Duterte accused a presidential aspirant of using cocaine.
While he did not give the person’s name, Duterte hinted that the aspirant comes from a well-known and rich clan, whose family name means “strong” and is known for its patriarch.