PNP backs drug test for celebs; Robin urges same for pols too
By ALFRED DALIZON & PS JUN M. SARMIENTO
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief, General Rodolfo S. Azurin Jr. on Monday expressed his full support to calls for celebrities and other workers to undergo drug tests in order for them to help promote a drug-free workplace and environment in the country. This as Senator Robinhood “Robin” C. Padilla challenged other politicians to submit themselves to drug testing too for the sake of fair play.
“It’s a good recommendation as celebrities are the role models of the youth. They should be impeccable. Kaya sana drug-free lahat ng artista natin, they must volunteer to take a drug test,” Azurin told newsmen at Camp Crame.
Azurin made the statement as House Committee on Dangerous Drugs chairperson and Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers called for mandatory drug testing of all celebrities before they are allowed to do projects in the entertainment industry following the arrest of actor Dominic Roco— a son of veteran actor Bembol Roco — and four others in an anti-narcotics operation conducted by agents of the Quezon City Police District last Saturday.
Meanwhile, Padilla, a known actor turned senator said, although he is one in seeking to protect fellow Filipinos from the ill effects of illegal drugs which include his fellow workers in the showbiz industry, their rights should be taken into consideration if they refuse to submit themselves to drug testing.
“We cannot oblige anyone to undergo a drug test, as it is tantamount to violating their human rights. That said, I am taking a voluntary drug test–as this is for their safety and well-being. It would be best if the employers should shoulder the expenses for such drug tests,” Padilla was quoted as saying.
At the same time, Padilla challenged other politicians to submit themselves to drug testing too for the sake of fair play.
“It would be better if our government officials and employees take a drug test as they have a responsibility to provide our people with a good example,” Padilla said.