BJMP open to random drug tests among PDLs, personnel

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 11) — The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology welcomes the plan of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to conduct random drug tests among persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and jail personnel.

In a public briefing Thursday, BJMP spokesperson Col. Xavier Solda said this is also a good opportunity for DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos to personally check their facilities and to raise other concerns regarding illegal drugs.

Abalos earlier issued a warning that he will personally go to jail facilities to conduct random drug tests amid the issue of big-time drug lords operating in jails.

Solda assured that proper steps will be taken if anyone, especially a BJMP staff member, tests positive for illegal drugs.

"They don't deserve to be in the service if they lack the discipline, more so if they are into illegal drugs," the official said.

Of BJMP's 477 jail facilities, 262 were certified drug-free while 40 were declared drug-cleared, Solda noted.