4 Cops in Davao Region test positive for illegal drugs

DAVAO CITY — Four police officers in the Davao Region, including three from Davao Oriental and one from Davao de Oro, have tested positive for illegal drug use, according to the Police Regional Office XI (PRO-XI).

The officers, whose ranks range from Patrolman to Police Staff Sergeant, include one assigned to the Provincial Intelligence Unit and two others from the Provincial Mobile Force Company in Davao Oriental. The fourth officer is assigned to Davao de Oro.

“They will face administrative charges of grave misconduct,” said Police Major Catherine Dela Rey, spokesperson of PRO XI.

The drug test was part of a surprise random drug testing program conducted during the PNP’s internal cleansing campaign. This program aims to weed out rogue personnel involved in illegal drug use or related activities, reinforcing the PNP’s commitment to professionalize the police force.

This latest development follows a series of drug testing operations within the Philippine National Police, which has intensified under the current administration. The initiative seeks to restore public trust and uphold accountability, especially after recent cases where police officers were caught using or even trafficking illegal drugs.

In 2023, over 900 police personnel nationwide were found to have links to drug use or drug-related crimes, prompting sweeping reforms and disciplinary action, including dismissals, suspensions, and demotions.

PRO XI confirmed that all four officers who tested positive in the latest round would undergo summary hearings and could face dismissal from service.

“The PNP leadership has made it clear: there’s no room in the organization for those who violate the laws they are sworn to uphold,” Dela Rey added.