Senator Robinhood "Robin" Padilla on Monday said the proposed mandatory drug test on celebrities and other talents before appearing on entertainment projects is tantamount to a "violation of their human rights."
Padilla, an actor-turned-lawmaker, said that while he supports the advocacy against illegal drugs, the government cannot oblige his fellow workers in the show business to undergo drug tests.
"However, we cannot oblige anyone to undergo a drug test, as it is tantamount to violating their human rights," he said.
"That said, I am for them taking a voluntary drug test — as this is for their safety and wellbeing. It would also be best if the employers shouldered the expenses for such drug tests," he added.
Padilla proposed that government officials and employees should likewise take drug examinations, citing that they have an obligation to be role models to the public.
"On the other hand, it would be better if our government officials and employees take drug tests as they have the responsibility to provide our people with a good example," he stressed.
He made the statement after Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers pushed for a mandatory drug test on actors and other celebrities who are idolized by the public, particularly the youth before they are commissioned to make movies and other related undertakings.
Barbers noted that since 2016, at least eight celebrities have been arrested for alleged involvement in illegal drugs.
