CAMP BGEN OSCAR M FLORENDO, La Union – In a “surprise” move to check those using illegal drugs, third-level officers and some police lieutenant colonels of Police Regional Office (PRO) 1 have undergone on-the-spot drug testing Monday, January 9, 2023, at PRO 1 Conference Room.

In a statement sent to this reporter, the drug testing was conducted immediately after the third-level officers had signed their “courtesy resignation” in support of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretary and PNP chief’s appeal to all full colonels and generals – part of the government’s efforts to rid the police force of officers involved in the illegal drug trade.

PRO 1 Regional Director Police Brigadier Gen. John C. Chua led the whole command in signing his courtesy resignation, followed by Brig. Gen. Carlito M. Gases, deputy regional director for administration (PRO 1), and all other police colonels.

A total of 17 third-level police commissioned officers (PCOs) have signed their courtesy resignation, equivalent to 100% of their total number.

Meanwhile, 34 senior officers underwent the surprise drug test.

In a statement, Chua proudly said that all drug tests yielded “negative” results for the use of dangerous drugs.

“This is a way to manifest our full support to our SILG (Secretary of the Interior and Local Government) and (PNP chief). Also, in this manner, we could prove to the people that we have a clean and clear conscience and that we are deeply rooted in the fight against illegal drugs,” Chua said.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Christian D. Supnad