Remulla: Drug, psych tests for cops still mandatory

MANILA, Philippines — Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla has denied scrapping the mandatory drug and neuropsychological testing for active members of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Remulla denounced efforts to discredit the government and the PNP through the circulation of a spliced video on the alleged removal of drug and neuropsychological tests.

He said the video was first posted on X by Dalagang Pilipina (@fierceLady08) on Jan. 9.

“The video was edited to deliberately mislead netizens into believing that police and army personnel are now exempt from taking drug and psych tests,” Remulla said.

“The caption is malicious and discredits not only the PNP, but also the Office of the President,” he added.

Remulla clarified that the exemption granted to PNP personnel applies exclusively to their application for a renewal of license to own and possess firearms.

“This exemption is granted in recognition of the regular and comprehensive drug and neuropsychological tests they undergo, including annual screenings and mandatory testing during specialized courses and training,” Remulla said.

He said given the thorough evaluations and strict monitoring police personnel are subjected to, requiring another round of drug testing would be redundant and counterproductive.

“It undermines the PNP’s efforts to streamline the process, improve operational efficiency and reduce unnecessary procedural burdens,” he said.

“We will not allow persons or groups to malign the name and integrity of the PNP. We appeal to the public to use social media responsibly and ensure that their content is always truthful and accurate,” Remulla said.