Mayor John Dalipe recently issued an executive order establishing a drug-free workplace policy for Zamboanga City in accordance with the mandates of the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC).

Executive Order JD 013 signed by the mayor on March 1, 2024 strictly prohibits the possession, use, sale, distribution or purchase of illegal drugs within the premises of any office, building or facility owned and operated by the LGU of Zamboanga City.

Reporting to work under the influence of illegal drugs or the misuse of prescription drugs is also prohibited under the EO.

In addition, employees are not allowed to engage in any illegal activities related drugs, including but not limited to the cultivation, production or trafficking of illegal substances.

The EO also provides drug testing as a mandatory requirement for initial entry into government service for appointive public officials and employees, and applicant found positive for drug use during pre-employment drug testing shall be denied entry to government service.

Moreover, the local chief executive ordered the conduct of periodic random testing with an interval of not exceeding two years.

Under EO 013, the city government of Zamboanga shall establish a Drug Dependency Examination and Treatment Program with interventions, rehabilitation and return to work policy.

It also carries administrative liability for public officials and employees found positive for drugs.-(Vic Larato)