A barangay councilman in Lapu-Lapu City was found positive of illegal drug use.

Based on the result of a confirmatory test on urine samples taken from him, the councilman was found positive of the use of methamphetamine.

The City of Lapu-Lapu Office for Substance Abuse Prevention (CLOSAP) carried out on the first week of June 2024 a surprise drug test for elected officials in a barangay.

The surprise drug test was done during the council’s regular session.

After the councilman tested positive during the initial screening, a confirmatory test was facilitated immediately. The result was confirmed on July 23, 2024.

According to CLOSAP Executive Director Garry Lao, as soon as the confirmatory test came out, he informed immediately Mayor Junard Chan, the barangay chairman, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the concerned councilman.

Lao pointed out that under Section 8 of an Ordinance passed in March 2024 entitled “Institutionalizing a Drug-Free Workplace in the Lapu-Lapu City Government,” an official or employee of the Local Government Unit found positive of illegal drugs use must undergo a six-month drug rehabilitation program in any government rehabilitation facility and will be suspended for six months without pay.

However, if the official or employee resists, the person will be dismissed from the service, Lao added.

The identity of the councilman has been withheld pending his statement.

As of posting time, the councilman has already filed a leave of absence.