Eastern Visayas Media Without Borders
by Miriam G. Desacada
Albuera (Leyte) –Mayor Rolan “Kerwin” Espinosa filed charges against personnel of the Albuera Municipal Government who tested positive for drug use during a random drug testing of municipal workers, upon orders of the town mayor, early this month.
The Mayor’s Office stated: “This action is part of Mayor Rolan Espinosa’s firm commitment to ensuring a drug-free workplace in the Municipality of Albuera, upholding integrity and discipline in public service.”
On its social media account, the Mayor’s Office declared: “Mayor Rolan E. Espinosa has officially filed a formal charge for Grave Misconduct against personnel of this municipality, following the findings of a preliminary investigation conducted by the Investigating Committee,” in connection with the results of the random drug tests.
There was no mention, however, of how many underwent the drug tests, and how many of them tested positive, but among those subjected to the drug tests were municipal employees, department heads, Sangguniang Bayan (SB) members, and even barangay captains.
“The charge is based on violations of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002), Dangerous Drugs Board regulations, and the 2017 Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service (RACCS),” said the Mayor’s Office.
It added: “The committee found prima facie evidence pointing to a serious administrative offense, defined as wrongful, improper, or unlawful conduct committed with willful intent and in blatant disregard of established laws and rules.” —- Miriam G. Desacada
Caption:
Photo shown below while Mayor Kerwin Espinosa personally monitores the random drug test for Albuera, Leyte municipal officials, employees, and barangay captains. The testing, recently conducted , which aimes to ensure a drug-free workplace and community, aligning with his administration’s commitment to promoting peace, order, and public safety.
