Dismissal awaits drug users in public service

The Civil Service Commission warned that under Section 46 (19) of Book V of Executive Order 292, public servants who will test positive for use of dangerous drugs shall be subjected to disciplinary/administrative proceedings with a penalty of dismissal from the service at first offense.

  

Lawyer Marilyn E. Taldo, CSC director 4 said the Commission issued Memorandum Circular No. 13 in 2010 pursuant to Republic Act No. 9165, known as “Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. CSC MC No. 13 was issued to “ensure that only those qualified shall be screened and recruited to prevent the detrimental effects (lower productivity; poor decision-making; increased accidents; more compensation claims; and reduced team effort) which drug use and abuse may cause in the workplace.”

Taldo said heads of agencies should ensure that drug-free workplace program especially in the prevention and control of dangerous drugs are in place.

Activities include organizing orientation and education programs for all officials and employees to increase awareness on the harmful effects and dangers of drug use and drug abuse in the workplace, as well as regular conduct of random drug testing.

The CSC said MC No. 34, s. 1997 requires mandatory drug test for pre-employment.

 All officials and employees entering government service must undergo drug test in centers accredited by the Department of Health.