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

The spliced video, with a misleading title claiming that members of the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) could freely use drugs, was first posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on 9 January 2025.

The video was edited to deliberately mislead viewers into believing that police and army personnel are now exempt from mandatory drug and psychological tests.

"Let me emphasize that the exemption granted to PNP personnel only applies exclusively for 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.

"We will not allow individuals or groups to malign the name and integrity of the PNP and the government," Remulla stressed. "We appeal to the public to use social media responsibly and ensure that their content is always truthful and accurate."