PDEA proposes testing for students aged 10 years old and up

In response to a Philippine Drug Enforcement Administration (PDEA) proposal to implement mandatory drug testing for all students aged 10 years old and up, Department of Education (DepEd) said they will be requesting a meeting with the PDEA regarding the department’s existing drug testing requirements.

In a statement by DepEd, they claim their existing drug testing program is sufficient, noting it complies by all mandates and regulations. The release also pointed out, following a recent presentation before the cabinet, DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones received the full support of President Rodrigo Duterte.

DepEd said they will be requesting a meeting between Briones and PDEA Director General Aaron Aquino to discuss the program and compare department objectives.

The statement noted, drug testing, which began during the 2017-2018 academic year, will, upon completion, sample around 10,000 teachers and 21,000 secondary students.

With regard to younger students, Briones said they will place an emphasis on curriculum geared towards drug prevention./WDJ