THE Police Regional Office-Davao Region (PRO-Davao) conducted a surprise drug screening of all personnel on January 2, 2025, as part of its Internal Disciplinary Program aimed at maintaining a drug-free organization.
According to PRO-Davao spokesperson Major Catherine Dela Rey, the drug testing followed a tragic incident on December 28, 2024, when an officer fatally shot a bus passenger and wounded two fellow officers.
The PNP Crime Laboratory conducted the tests under strict guidelines to ensure accuracy, confidentiality, and fairness. These unannounced screenings were carried out across various police stations and provincial offices under the directive of PRO-Davao Regional Director Brig. Gen. Leon Victor Rosete.
“The implementation of random drug testing further strengthens public confidence in the police force,” said Rosete. “It underscores the PNP’s commitment to self-regulation and transparency, fostering a culture of accountability among its personnel.”
He added that under the leadership of Director General Rommel Marbil, the PNP remains unwavering in its zero-tolerance policy on illegal drug use.
As of this writing, the results of the screenings conducted by the PNP Crime Laboratory have not yet been released.
The drug testing comes in the wake of a violent incident involving Cpl. Alfred Dawatan Sabas, assigned to Police Station 7 in General Santos City. On December 28, 2024, Sabas shot and killed a bus passenger in Barangay Batasan, Makilala, North Cotabato, and forced the driver to continue driving.
When the bus reached a police checkpoint in Barangay New Opon, Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, Sabas opened fire on responding officers, injuring two.
Sabas later tested positive for illegal drugs, highlighting the need for intensified measures against drug use within the police force. DEF