Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has ordered a review of the Senate’s random drug testing policy to ensure tighter enforcement, following reports of alleged marijuana use inside the chamber.
In a letter sent to Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III last August 18, Escudero confirmed that the Senate last conducted its Mandatory Random Drug Test (MRDT) on March 20, 2025, covering all Senate officials and employees. Preparations are now underway for the next round.
“I fully join you in this important initiative and wish to inform you that the Senate proper and service bureaus conducted its MRDT on all Senate officials and employees last March 20, 2025,” Escudero said, adding that future tests will strictly comply with the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Escudero said updated guidelines are now being drafted in consultation with the Department of Health (DOH) and accredited laboratories to make sure the drug testing policy will withstand legal scrutiny and guarantee effective implementation.
He also cited Senate Policy Order No. 2018-002, issued under Sotto’s leadership, which institutionalized random drug testing. The policy was consistently implemented until 2020 and will now be revived for stricter enforcement.
“At present, we are awaiting the complete roster of Senate employees whose names will be included in the next MRDT,” Escudero said.
Sotto earlier pushed for immediate testing of senators and staff after reports surfaced that marijuana was allegedly used at the fifth floor of the Senate.