CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Ten personnel of the Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA) in Cagayan de Oro City tested positive for illegal drug use following a surprise drug test conducted by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region 10, authorities confirmed.
The random screening, carried out among 162 RTA personnel, revealed that nine individuals tested positive for methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, while one tested positive for marijuana.
According to Expedito Cardona Jr., the Misamis Oriental provincial officer of PDEA-10, the operation was part of the agency’s continuing efforts to ensure that government personnel remain drug-free, particularly those in positions directly interacting with the public and responsible for road safety.
The results were further confirmed by Willy Dacula, acting information officer of PDEA-10, who emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline and integrity within government ranks.
Authorities said the fate of the personnel who tested positive now rests on the local government of Cagayan de Oro and the RTA management. Possible administrative and legal sanctions will depend on existing policies and the outcome of further evaluation.
The Roads and Traffic Administration plays a crucial role in enforcing traffic laws and ensuring order on city streets, making the findings a matter of serious concern for local officials and the public alike.
PDEA-10 reiterated its commitment to intensifying internal cleansing efforts across government offices, warning that similar surprise drug tests will continue to be conducted to deter illegal drug use among public servants.