Calls to Resume Random Drug Test in Senate
Amid reports of alleged marijuana use within the Senate premises, there is a growing call to bring back the random drug test among its employees. Senate Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III emphasized the urgent need for this measure to maintain a safe and professional workplace.
“The call is for the Senate leadership: bring back my previous order for random drug testing,” Sotto said during an interview, highlighting his concern over the recent incident. He recalled that during his tenure as Senate president, the Senate Office of the Sergeant at Arms (OSAA) conducted optional drug tests for senators and random checks for staff members.
Background on Previous Drug Testing Policy
According to Sotto, the random drug testing program was discontinued after his term ended. “When I was no longer there, they removed it,” he remarked in a text message. Now that he has returned to the Senate, the recent allegations have prompted him to push for the reinstatement of this policy.
Shock Over Alleged Marijuana Use Inside Senate
Sotto expressed disappointment upon learning about the supposed use of marijuana inside the Senate building. “That’s embarrassing. That’s really embarrassing,” he said, adding that such incidents undermine his advocacy for a drug-free environment. “It’s truly embarrassing—especially to our fellow Filipinos,” he added.
Incidents Reported by Senate Security Personnel
Two separate incidents involving an unusual odor suspected to be marijuana smoke were reported by Victor Patelo, a security guard stationed on the Senate’s 5th floor. Patelo noted that the scent was coming from the ladies’ comfort room near the senators’ extension offices.
In July, a male staff member alerted Patelo about a strong smell in their area. After inspecting the vicinity, Patelo confirmed the unusual scent but did not find anyone smoking at the time. He documented this in an incident report dated August 13.
Then, just last Tuesday, another male employee, identifying himself as part of Senator Panfilo Lacson’s staff, reported a similar odor. The employee said the smell resembled marijuana and pointed to a woman named Nadia Montenegro as the only person present in that area during the incident.
Ms. Nadia Montenegro Addresses Allegations
Patelo was asked to discreetly approach Ms. Montenegro, who denied smoking or using marijuana inside the comfort room. However, she admitted to carrying a vape device in her bag, which she suggested might have caused the unusual scent reported earlier.
Officials confirmed that former actress Nadia Montenegro is currently employed in Senator Robin Padilla’s office. She has been asked to submit a written explanation following her name being mentioned in the incident report. Montenegro has reportedly been on leave since Wednesday.
Senate Leadership Responds to Incident
Community members noted that the alleged incident has stirred concern among Senate officials. Many believe reinstating the random drug test will help prevent similar occurrences and uphold the integrity of the institution.
As calls to resume the random drug test grow louder, Senate leaders are expected to evaluate the situation and consider implementing stricter measures to ensure a drug-free environment for all employees and officials.
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