News briefs
YES TO RANDOM DRUG TESTING
THE Cebu South Mini Bus Operators (CSMBO) called for the abolition of mandatory drug tests as a requirement to secure a driver’s license.
In the 888 News Forum yesterday, CSMBO president Julito Flores said he finds random drug testing more effective. He said drivers using drugs are forewarned and can prepare for mandatory drug tests.
“Drug users are cleansed in a month. Other drugs washed out in a day. This means, the test results become inaccurate,” said Flores in Cebuano.
Republic Act 9165 or the Dangerous Drug Act of 2002 requires a mandatory drug test in the application for a driver’s license.
Former Dangerous Drugs Board chairman Clarence Paul Oaminal expressed his support for random drug testing.
Early this month, at least 18 public utility drivers tested positive for drug use in random roadside tests done by the Land Transportation Office as part of its Oplan Ligtas Cuaresma (Holy Week).
Rep. Benhur Salimbangon of Cebu’s 4th district announced his plan to pass a bill that will legalize random drug testing. /UP Cebu Intern Caryl Baylon
CAPITOL, MILITARY TO REWORK CENTCOM CAMP TRANSFER
AN agreement between the Capitol and the military to move out the Central Command headquarters from Camp Lapu-Lapu barangay Apas, Cebu City, will take a new direction, Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia said yesterday.
“We are progressing. Ample time will come to give the proper announcement but I did propose another direction still within the parameters of the MOA, which involves replication,” Garcia said after meeting with military officials at the Capitol.
Among the relocation sites identified is a lot in Mactan Air Base near the MAB Elementary School.
Maj. Gen. Roy Deveraturda, Armed Forces deputy chief of staff, said the school won’t be displaced. He said he will present the results of his meeting with Garcia to Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Jessie Dellosa and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin.
“On our side, we are really here to see to it that the provisions of the agreement are implemented and how to replicate the facilities that will be affected by the relocation,” he said.
Among the structures to be affected by the transfer is the Navy Officer’s Village inside the camp. Another meeting is scheduled on May 8. Correspondent Carmel Loise Matus
