Surprise Drug Test on PNP

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Last September, it was reported in the news that top Philippine National Police (PNP)
officials had undergone a surprise drug test in Camp Crame during a command conference.
Among those 89 officials who participated, none of them tested “positive” according to the PNP
Forensic Group. This result was claimed or stated by Acorda, PNP chief General, to mirror
PNP’s efforts in combating illegal drugs and their unwavering commitment to their profession.

Upon knowing this news about a surprise drug test for PNP officials, I initially felt wowed
because it doesn’t sound common to me though I feel like I shouldn’t feel it since it is like a
“bare minimum” and it should really be done, more especially to those in the said field. As I also
learned that only 89 officials participated and all of them were not tested “positive”, I felt mixed
emotions. I was happy to know that the result was favorable but at the same time, I felt skeptical
especially when the PNP chief said that it serves as a clear message that PNP is determined in
maintaining leadership integrity and endeavor to illicit drugs. Generalizing this result seems
improper as the number of those who were tested is just how much of the total percent of the
whole PNP community. Last August, PNP also reported that 24 out of 115, 983 officers and
personnels tested positive during a random drug test. So, this could mean that there might be a
different result or the same if the test will be conducted and involved by many more participants
but then, maybe it’s quite hard considering the resources we have. Nonetheless, this surprise
drug test is a good initiative for me and it should be continued.

The Philippine National Police is one of those we depend on to ensure our safety and
security. This surprise drug test is only one of those things that will give us, citizens, an
assurance that they are committed with their profession and that we can trust them fully. If there
are more surprise drug tests to be conducted in the future, I just hope that it will really be done
fairly, confidentially, and with proper procedures. Truly, PNP as professionals who play a vital
role in preventing crimes and illegal drugs, must make sure that they are not participating in any
of this because it will be ironic and contradicting their duties.