Padilla nixes drug tests for celebrities
‘We encourage the giant networks, even the actors’ guild. They conduct voluntary drug tests so that they can show that they are helping in our campaign against illegal drugs.’
Daily Tribune‘We encourage the giant networks, even the actors’ guild. They conduct voluntary drug tests so that they can show that they are helping in our campaign against illegal drugs.’
Senator Robin Padilla | Photo: AL PADILLA
Senator Robinhood "Robin" Padilla on Monday took issue with Rep. Robert
Ace Barbers over the lawmaker's proposal for mandatory drug tests for celebrities and other talents before engaging in projects.
Padilla said it is tantamount to a "violation of their human rights."
A former actor himself, Padilla said while he supports the advocacy against illegal drugs, the government cannot oblige entertainers to undergo drug tests.
However, Padilla said he is encouraging celebrities to take the tests voluntarily for their safety and well-being.
"It would also be best if the employers shoulder the expenses for such drug tests," he added.
While still at it, Padilla proposed that government officials and employees should likewise take drug examinations, saying that they have obligations to be role models to the public.
Barbers pushed for the mandatory tests after noting that eight celebrities have been arrested for alleged involvement in illegal drugs since 2016.
The latest arrest involves actor Dominic Roco who was nabbed with four others in an anti-drug operation in Quezon City over the weekend.
Dominic, the 33-year-old son of veteran actor Bembol Roco, and his cohorts yielded P12,000 worth of shabu and P14,000 worth of marijuana leaves.
In a related development, the Philippine National Police also expressed its support for the lawmaker's proposal, citing that celebrities should serve as role models for the youth.
"We encourage the giant networks, even the actors' guild. They conduct voluntary drug tests so that they can show that they are helping in our campaign against illegal drugs," PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said in a press briefing at Camp Crame in Quezon City.
Azurin said firms can help the government's campaign against illegal drugs by including drug testing as a requirement for employment.
WITH GLEN JACOB JOSE
