A police officer assigned to the Palompon Municipal Police Station has tested positive for shabu in a recent drug test as confirmed by the authorities last December 16.
According to the Police Regional Office in Eastern Visayas, the officer yielded a positive result during a random drug screening conducted as part of the Philippine National Police’s internal cleansing program.
The test was carried out to ensure discipline and integrity within the ranks, particularly at the municipal level.
Officials said the confirmatory test validated the initial result, prompting the immediate relief of the officer from operational duties.
The officer has been placed under restrictive custody while administrative and possible criminal proceedings are being prepared.
Police authorities declined to disclose the identity of the officer, citing due process and ongoing investigations.
They said the case will be referred to the PNP Crime Laboratory for further documentation and to the Internal Affairs Service for the filing of appropriate administrative charges.
The Eastern Visayas police leadership stressed that the incident underscores the PNP’s policy of zero tolerance for illegal drug use among its personnel.
“We are deeply concerned and disappointed. Walang puwang sa Philippine National Police ang paggamit ng ilegal na droga lalo na sa mga inaasahang magpatupad ng batas. This case reinforces our commitment to cleanse our ranks,” PNP acting chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.
Under existing PNP rules, officers who test positive for illegal drugs face penalties ranging from suspension to dismissal from service, depending on the circumstances and the outcome of the investigation.
Criminal charges may also be filed if evidence warrants.
Local officials in Palompon said the police station remains fully operational and that public safety measures have not been affected by the incident.
Additional personnel may be assigned if necessary to ensure continuity of law enforcement services in the town.
The PNP has intensified random and targeted drug testing nationwide in line with directives from national headquarters to rid the organization of illegal drug users.
Police officials said similar tests will continue across Eastern Visayas to maintain public trust and professionalism within the force.
Authorities reiterated for police personnel to uphold ethical standards and comply strictly with the law, warning that violations will be dealt with swiftly and without favoritism.
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