Tests detect drug users in Mandaluyong barangay gov’t

Fourteen barangay workers—two of them officials—in Mandaluyong City have tested positive in a surprise drug test conducted at their barangay hall on Wednesday.

Of the 14 who were considered automatically relieved of their duties, only seven have surrendered so far, Barangay Barangka-Ilaya chair Joselito Pangilinan told the Inquirer.

A total of 96 barangay workers—from the chair down to the councilors, tanod (watchmen), drivers and volunteers—were tested. Pangilinan said the seven who surrendered would undergo drug rehabilitation with the cost—estimated at P4,500 per person—to be shouldered by the barangay.

One of the 14 who tested positive, a barangay councilor, would be turned over to the Interior department for investigation, he said.

Pangilinan initiated the drug test “to ensure we are transparent and have integrity in our drive against illegal drugs.”

The initiative was supported by Senior Supt. Joaquin Alva, the Mandaluyong police chief, who said the law enforcers could not wage an all-out war on drugs if their counterparts at the barangay level are themselves users.