ILOILO City – Thirty‑four personnel of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) failed to appear for a surprise mandatory drug test, prompting the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO‑6) to review their explanations and determine whether administrative charges will be filed.
The missed screening has raised questions about discipline within the local police force as authorities push an intensified “internal cleansing” campaign aimed at ensuring that law enforcers themselves remain drug‑free while enforcing the country’s anti‑drug laws.
PRO‑6 regional director Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan confirmed that the concerned officers have already submitted written explanations to ICPO leadership regarding their absence during the surprise drug test.
“We will evaluate the explanation. If there is merit, then wala tayong gagawing corresponding administrative,” Ligan said during a press conference.
He stressed, however, that compliance with mandatory drug testing is a standing requirement within the police organization and that failure to participate without a valid reason could lead to sanctions.
Ligan said the police personnel who missed the March 3 screening were given additional days to submit themselves for drug testing while their explanations are being evaluated.
The surprise drug testing was conducted at the ICPO headquarters at Camp Achilles D. Plagata along General Luna Street in Iloilo City.
A total of 269 police personnel from various stations and units participated in the screening as part of the police force’s intensified internal cleansing program. Of this number, 31 were Police Commissioned Officers (PCOs) while 238 were Police Non‑Commissioned Officers (PNCOs).
The activity was carried out under the directive of ICPO officer‑in‑charge Police Colonel Wilbert Parilla to ensure that all personnel remain drug‑free while performing their duties.
Police officials described the testing as a “test of credibility,” underscoring the need to reinforce integrity, discipline, and professionalism within the ranks.
Authorities said the initiative forms part of the Philippine National Police’s continuing campaign against illegal drugs, stressing that the organization’s anti‑drug policy applies not only to the public but also to its own members./PN
