THE Army's 6th Infantry Division inaugurated Monday, November 11, its newly completed drug testing center in Camp Siongco Station Hospital in the village of Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Major General Diosdado Carreon, Army's 6th Infantry Division commander, said the center will cater to the mandatory and random drug test requirements of personnel who are applying for promotion, reenlistment, and schooling, as well as of those who are seeking security and command clearances.

Carreon said the establishment of the center will help strengthen the existing anti-narcotics regulation and policies of the Armed Forces of the Philippines with the end view of totally eradicating use of illegal drugs.

"This (center) will also protect the unit and the personnel from the dangers of using illegal substances," Carreon said.

He said the establishment of the center will ensure the credibility and integrity of the command by deterring and preventing the personnel from getting into illegal drugs addiction.

He said his command will strictly follow the directive that requires all government agencies and institutions to be drug-free, so that all personnel can perform their mandated tasks and duties successfully and deliver their services effectively.

"Our gratitude goes to all who worked hard for the realization of this project," said Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command chief.

"We always preserve the high moral standard of living of our soldiers, because they are our foremost asset. We always look after their morale and welfare to ensure that they are always fit to perform as the protector the people and the land," Sobejana added.

The inauguration of the newly completed drug testing center was graced by Brigadier General Juymax Uy, Army's 6th Infantry Division assistant commander. (SunStar Zamboanga)