Dismissal Awaits Drug Users in Public Service

Government employees who will test or have tested positive for use of dangerous drugs face the risk of being dismissed from public service.

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) warned that under Section 46 (19) of Book V of Executive Order 292, public servants who will test positive for use of dangerous drugs shall be subjected to disciplinary/administrative proceedings with a penalty of dismissal at first offense.

The Commission issued Memorandum Circular No. 13 in 2010 pursuant to Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the “Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. CSC MC No. 13 was issued to “ensure that only those qualified shall be screened and recruited to prevent the detrimental effects (e.g. lower productivity; poor decision-making; increased accidents; more compensation claims; and reduced team effort) which drug use and abuse may cause in the workplace.”

Heads of agencies were also urged to ensure that drug-free workplace program especially in the prevention and control of dangerous drugs are in place. Activities include organizing orientation and education programs for all officials and employees to increase awareness on the harmful effects and dangers of drug use and drug abuse in the workplace, as well as regular conduct of random drug testing.

CSC also reiterated that Memorandum Circular No. 34, s. 1997 requires the conduct of mandatory drug test for pre-employment. All officials and employees entering government service must undergo drug test in centers accredited by the Department of Health.

Source: web.csc.gov.ph