For skipping drug test, two Capitol workers may face suspension

CEBU, Philippines - The two Capitol employees who failed to appear during a random drug test last month may face six months suspension, an official of the Cebu Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council  said yesterday.

CPADAC executive director Joey Herrera said the refusal of the two employees to adhere to the memorandum requiring them to submit to a drug test constitutes either insubordination or gross insubordination.

He, however, said that the Capitol’s committee on discipline and investigation will determine which of the two cases will be filed. He explained that the employees may be suspended for six months if found guilty of gross subordination.

Insubordination is a disobedience to a direct and specific order. It is a lesser offense than gross insubordination, which can be committed by an employee who deliberately declines to follow instructions and orders.

The two casual employees were present during the flag ceremony on June 30 but disappeared during the drug test. Herrera said he cannot yet divulge the names of the two, pending investigation.

Herrera further disclosed that one of the two employees detailed at the legislative building had sent a letter to the Office of the Vice Governor stating his reason for absence during the screening.

“During the very first drug test at the Cebu Capitol, I voluntarily appeared to take the aforesaid test. Hence, I believe I did not have to take a second one. I hope this will enlighten you on this matter,” a copy of the employee’s letter read.

Herrera, however, made it clear that the people subjected to a drug test are selected randomly by a computer and that repetition of subjects is expected.

“Kung ikay napilian sa computer, attend gyod ka... And I will make him understand nga di na ingon ana, kay kung humana tanan pagpermiro makahibalo sila nga di na sila i-drug test, katong manggamitay, mogamit for the rest of the year,” he said.

The other employee also appeared at the CPADAC’s office on Wednesday and asked for a drug test, but Herrera refused to grant the request. He said, it is now up to the investigating committee, headed by Provincial Administrator Mark Tolentino.

CPADAC’s record shows that there were already 15 capitol employees who have been dismissed from service after being found positive for drug use. — (FREEMAN)