DAVAO CITY – Acting Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Director Colonel Hansel Marantan spearheaded a random drug test for officers and personnel on Monday, December 9, at Camp Domingo Leonor Compound.
“This random drug test aims to ensure that we are morally upright in our fight against illegal drugs. If anyone tests positive, they will face the consequences. As law enforcers, we must uphold the principles of what we are fighting for,” Marantan told Newsline.
Colonel Florepez Pallado, chief of the City Crime Laboratory, confirmed that 44 police officers submitted urine samples during the test. The results are expected to be available by the end of the day.
Marantan emphasized that the test was conducted immediately following the traditional Monday conference among police officers. “It must be random to truly check the status of our police officers,” he added.
Pallado explained how different substances are metabolized in the body. “Drug substances like shabu (methamphetamine) are usually flushed out of the body within 24 hours, depending on an individual’s metabolism. However, marijuana, being non-water soluble, can remain detectable for over seven days.”
The initiative is part of the DCPO’s efforts to maintain discipline and integrity among its ranks as it continues its campaign against illegal drugs.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
