Palace open to drug test for officials

Even though drug tests for government employees are not mandated by law, Malacañang on Thursday said it is open to the idea of its officials undergoing drug tests in light of a congressman's arrest in Hong Kong over drug charges. In a press briefing, presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said President Benigno Aquino III will let heads of agencies in the executive branch tell their employees to undergo drug testing if they find it necessary. "It is all up to the President. If he feels it is necessary, if he feels it is prudent, we will do so," said Lacierda, even as he pointed out that the call for drug tests was directed at the legislative branch in response to the recent drugs-related arrest of Ilocos Sur Rep. Ronald Singson in Hong Kong. "If it is something that is a cause for concern, especially if it will affect productivity in the working place, it is up to the heads of the agencies to do so," said Lacierda. Singson, son of Ilocos Norte governor Chavit Singson, was arrested at the Customs Arrival Hall of Chek Lap Kok International Airport on July 11, where he yielded 26.1 grams of cocaine and two tablets of Valium. Following his arrest, Senator Vicento "Tito" Sotto III — a long-time anti-drug abuse advocate and former head of the Dangerous Drugs Board — called on lawmakers to undergo drug testing. Several members of the Lower House and senators have responded positively to his call. Lacierda also said Malacañang is keeping its hands off Singson's case. "The case is in Hong Kong; it is beyond of our jurisdiction. So if and when he comes back, it depends if he is still a congressman. At that point, then that is the only time the Philippine government will decide. But as of now, we are not in the position to say anything in that matter," he said, adding that it is up to Congress to decide whether they will retain Singson as a House member.—Jam L. Sisante/JV, GMANews.TV