A police officer in Lapu-Lapu City has tested positive for illegal drug use during a mandatory screening for promotion, raising concerns about substance abuse within the police force.
Failed Drug Test During Promotion Process
The incident occurred on October 21, 2025, when the Police Regional Headquarters conducted drug tests as part of standard promotion requirements. According to Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LCPO) information officer Capt. Edcel Petecio, the officer was applying for promotion to the rank of staff sergeant when the test yielded positive results.
Petecio emphasized that this was not a random test but part of the standard procedure for all personnel seeking career advancement within the police organization. The officer, who was assigned to Police Station 3 in Barangay Gun-ob, Lapu-Lapu City, did not contest the findings and openly admitted to using illegal substances.
Immediate Consequences and Protocol
The positive drug test automatically disqualified the officer from promotion consideration. Following established protocols, the personnel has been placed under the custody and monitoring of the Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit.
Disciplinary proceedings are expected to move forward unless the officer requests a confirmatory test to challenge the initial results. The case represents the fourth instance of a police personnel in Lapu-Lapu City testing positive for illegal drugs since December 2024.
Broader Implications for Police Integrity
Capt. Petecio used this incident to remind all police personnel of their responsibility to maintain professionalism and avoid illegal drugs. He stressed that as law enforcers, they must serve as role models for the community they protect.
The LCPO has committed to continuing its surprise drug testing program as part of ongoing internal cleansing efforts aimed at maintaining the integrity of the police force and public trust in law enforcement institutions.
