Leyte cop faces axe after failing drug test

A police corporal assigned to the Palompon Municipal Police Station in Leyte province is facing dismissal proceedings after testing positive for illegal drugs, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported Sunday.

The officer, identified as Police Corporal Marty Opleda Ordoña, was subjected to a targeted random drug test last 5 December after the PNP’s Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group-Visayas Field Unit (IMEG-VFU) received intelligence in September 2025 regarding the officer’s alleged involvement in the use and proliferation of illegal drugs.

After a series of validations reportedly confirmed the intelligence, the IMEG-VFU recommended Ordoña’s inclusion in a random drug screening conducted by the Regional Forensic Unit 8 (RFU 8).

The RFU 8 released the official results on 13 December, confirming that Ordoña tested positive for suspected shabu, a dangerous drug.

Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. strongly condemned the finding.

“We are deeply concerned and disappointed. The Philippine National Police prohibits the use of illegal drugs, especially among law enforcers,” Nartatez said in a statement. “This case reinforces our commitment to cleanse our ranks.”

Nartatez has directed the immediate filing of administrative charges against Ordoña, with dismissal from the service being the penalty pursued should the charges be proven.

The necessary documentation for filing the complaint is scheduled for 15 December. The PNP chief added that criminal cases may follow if supported by evidence, underscoring that no one in the organization is exempt from accountability.

“Let this be a clear message that the Philippine National Police is no place for those involved in or using illegal drugs,” Nartatez said.

“Our counter-intelligence operation and internal cleansing mechanisms are strong. We will run after you and make sure that you will suffer the consequences as part of our commitment to protect the integrity of the organization and the honor of the badge,” he added.