Police leaders in Western Visayas cleared a surprise drug test after all 110 chiefs of police tested negative for illegal drug use during a mandatory screening conducted on Monday, February 2, police officials reported.
The Philippine National Police carried out the unannounced drug test immediately after a “talk to men” session led by Josefino Ligan, regional director of Police Regional Office 6, who ordered all station commanders to attend a meeting earlier that day.
After delivering his guidance and directives, Ligan instructed the police chiefs to remain at the multi-purpose hall, where authorities conducted the drug screening without prior notice.
PRO-6 said the activity formed part of the PNP’s ongoing internal cleansing program and integrity monitoring initiatives aimed at strengthening discipline, professionalism, and accountability within the police organization.
Ligan said police authorities conducted the procedure in accordance with established PNP protocols to reinforce the organization’s commitment to integrity and credible public service.
He noted that the all-negative results reflected the professionalism and discipline expected of police leaders and reinforced the principle that commanders must lead by example.
He also said the drug test served not only as a compliance measure but as a critical step in sustaining public trust and strengthening the credibility of police leadership in the government’s campaign against illegal drugs.
Ligan added that PRO-6 will continue to implement regular and random drug testing, along with other integrity-building initiatives, to maintain a drug-free police force and uphold high ethical standards.
He further reaffirmed the regional police office’s full support for the PNP’s focus agenda, emphasizing that accountability within the ranks remains essential to delivering responsive and people-centered policing across Western Visayas.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.