Escudero orders Senate drug testing review

By Wilnard Bacelonia, Philippine News Agency

FILE: Senate President Francis Escudero names the initial nine newly elected members of the Commission on Appointments for the 20th Congress during the plenary session at the Senate of the Philippines in Pasay City on Monday (Aug. 18, 2025). (Photo by Avito Dalan)

MANILA – Senate President Francis Escudero directed a review of the Senate’s random drug testing policy on Monday to ensure stricter implementation, following reports of alleged marijuana use within the chamber’s premises.

In a letter to Minority Leader Vicente Sotto III dated Aug.

18, Escudero confirmed that the Senate conducted its most recent mandatory random drug test (MRDT) for officials and employees on March 20, and preparations are underway for another round.

“I fully join you in this important initiative and wish to inform you that the Senate proper and service bureaus conducted its MRDT on all Senate officials and employees last March 20, 2025,” Escudero said, assuring that forthcoming testing would be comprehensive and compliant with the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

He said updated guidelines are being crafted in consultation with the Department of Health and accredited laboratories to withstand legal scrutiny and ensure effective implementation.

Escudero cited Senate Policy Order No. 2018-002, issued during Sotto’s term as Senate President, which institutionalized random drug testing.

He said the policy was observed until 2020 and would now be revisited for stricter enforcement.

“At present, we are awaiting the complete roster of Senate employees whose names will be included in the next MRDT,” Escudero added.

Sotto earlier urged the immediate conduct of drug testing for senators and staff in light of reports on alleged drug use at the Senate’s fifth floor.