MANDAUE City is stepping up its fight against illegal drugs with a new enhanced drug-free workplace policy.
Authored by Councilor Oscar Del Castillo, Jr., the ordinance mandates pre-employment drug testing for all city government employees, followed by periodic and random tests during their tenure.
Councilor Cynthia Remedio, co-author of the ordinance on Monday, February 24, 2024, said employees who test positive and refuse treatment will face strict administrative sanctions.
The policy extends to all elected and appointed public officials, contract workers, and private establishments under Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) Order No. 53-03.
To support accurate testing, the City has established a state-of-the-art drug testing laboratory, ensuring that all drug warriors and individuals under the ordinance receive proper screening.
In addition to routine and surprise drug testing, the policy also enforces disciplinary sanctions for any department or establishment that fails to implement these measures.
Barangay-level initiatives also remain a major component of the City’s drive toward a drug-free community.
Currently, 19 out of 27 barangays have been declared drug-free.
“We already have 19 drug-free barangays, and we hope that the remaining eight will soon follow,” Remedio said.
Barangays achieving this status receive cash incentives and additional support programs for their anti-drug efforts.
However, if a drug-free barangay is found violating the rules, it must restart its progress and will be closely monitored by the police.
Remedio said the enhanced policy aims to protect public health, ensure a safe working environment, and build a secure community. / CAV
