MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla tested negative in a preliminary five-panel urine drug test and announced plans to undergo further blood and hair follicle screenings to promote integrity among public servants.
Following his negative urine screening, Padilla challenged fellow elected and appointed government officials to voluntarily submit to drug testing to foster greater public trust and accountability.
To institutionalize this initiative, the senator filed Senate Bill No. 2541, known as the “Gawad Integridad Kontra Droga Recognition Act.” The proposed legislation mandates the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to honor public officials who voluntarily present negative results from DOH-accredited drug testing facilities, covering urine, blood, and hair follicle methods.
Padilla underscored that leadership requires personal integrity, stating that transparency and accountability should not only be demanded of fellow public officials but should also be demonstrated by those in leadership.
He noted that the measure guarantees privacy rights, remains strictly voluntary, and ensures that government funds are not utilized for the testing process.