Kabayan party-list Representative Ron Salo is proposing hair drug testing for students. He said it is more reliable in confirming illegal drug use.
The proposal stems from the announcement of the Department of Education (DepEd) that they will conduct random drug testing in several public schools, both in elementary and high school levels.
Salo said that based on the study of the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), a hair sample can be analyzed to determine whether a person has used illegal drugs in the last three months.
At present, the DepEd uses urine sample in carrying out random drug tests.
Secretary Leonor Briones said that students who test positive for drug use will undergo a confirmatory test and counseling.
“It will not be basis for expulsion for failure, whatever punishment. It will be a basis for seeing what can be done, if a case is still susceptible to being treated, etc,” she said.
Meanwhile, CHR spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline de Guia argued that the names of students who will test positive for drugs must not be publicized.
If a student tests positive for drugs, they must not be charged but should be sent to rehabilitation instead.
“It must be assured that there are adequate safeguards to ensure that it will not be abused or it will not be susceptible to any wrongdoing,” Atty. De Guia said.
The Quezon City government will begin the random drug testing in schools once an ordinance is passed. — Grace Casin | UNTV News & Rescue
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