At least 37 personnel of the Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) of Davao City were dismissed from service after they tested positive for illegal drug use.

The 37 were job order workers and most of them were assigned at the Civil Security Unit that aids in maintaining peace and order in the city.

PSSO Head Angel Sumagaysay requested for the conduct of random drug test last May 3, 2024 and May 13, 2024.

Davao City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (CADAC) Action Officer Jaffar Marohomsalic said those who tested positive may enroll in the drug rehabilitation program.

“We will enroll them in our drug rehabilitation program but it is voluntary we cannot compel talaga na they will enroll sa rehab program but they are being interviewed na rin because their names are forwarded to the implementing bodies also,” Marohomsalic said.

CADAC said the workers admitted to using illegal drugs.

“They are subject to confirmatory test but there was admission sa mga nag-positive that is why ang ating department heads it depends on them kung ano ang magiging decision sa mga nagpositive na personnel sa cadac we just facilitate,” Marohomsalic added.

Sumagaysay recommended the termination of the workers’ contract of service to the City Mayor’s Office through the Human Resources Office.

She added that PSSO, being a part of the security cluster, should not have employees involved in illegal activities.

“Very frustrating. Ang usa sa mga gina-emphasize nako diha, kining avoidance from illegal activity, isa na diha ang usage of illegal drugs. So giingon nako, inyong gi-violate ang contract ninyo with the city government. We have no choice but to terminate you,” Sumagaysay said.