Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Saturday denounced efforts to discredit the government and the Philippine National Police (PNP) through the circulation of a spliced video on the alleged removal of mandatory drug and neuropsychological testing among active police personnel.

The video, with the caption “Malaya at Legal na gumamit ng Droga ang PNP at AFP only in the Philippines sa Bagong Pilipinas ni Marcos Jr.,” was first posted by Dalagang Pilipina (@fierceLady08) on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on 9 January 2025.

He said the video was edited to deliberately mislead viewers into believing that police and army personnel are now exempt from taking the mandatory drug and psych tests.

“Let me emphasize that the exemption granted to PNP personnel only applies exclusively to their application for a new or renewal of license to own and possess firearms. This exemption is granted in recognition of the regular and comprehensive drug and neuropsychological testing they already undergo as part of their service, including annual screenings and mandatory testing during specialized courses and training,” Remulla said.

“Given the thorough evaluations and strict monitoring they are subjected to, requiring another round of drug testing would be redundant and counterproductive, as it undermines the PNP’s efforts to streamline the process, improve operational efficiency, and reduce unnecessary procedural burdens,” he added.

Remulla appealed to the public to use social media responsibly and ensure that their content is always truthful and accurate.