The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) conducted a comprehensive orientation on the implementation of random drug testing for all employees of the Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya (PGNV) on July 27, 2026, at the Carlos M. Padilla Convention Center (CMPCC), Provincial Capitol, Bayombong.
Held immediately following the regular flag-raising ceremony, the activity forms part of the province’s requirements for its application to secure the Drug Free Workplace accreditation.
Heading the orientation was PDEA Region 2 Legal and Prosecution Unit Chief Atty. Cherwin Maggulun, who laid out the guidelines, procedures, and legal basis for the conduct of random drug testing across all offices of the provincial government.
Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) Focal Person and Provincial Jail Warden SF04 Carmelo B. Andrada, Ret.,stated: “Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito conveys that a drug-free public service is the very foundation of honest, reliable, and compassionate governance. He reminds us that if we expect our communities to be free from the harm of illegal drugs, we must first ensure that our own ranks are clean, disciplined, and beyond reproach. This orientation and the drug testing policy are not about suspicion, they are about protecting our workforce, upholding public trust, and keeping our commitment to serve with integrity. We have already proven what we can achieve as one team, and this accreditation is another step toward building a safer, stronger Nueva Vizcaya for all.”
Andrada also highlighted the province’s existing milestone in anti-drug efforts: “The Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Jail stands as the only drug-free provincial jail in Region 2, and is one of only three such accredited facilities across the entire Luzon. This recognition is proof that when we act together and stay committed, we can set high standards that others will follow.”
Representatives from different offices under the PGNV attended the session, where they were briefed on their roles and responsibilities in complying with the accreditation requirements.
Andrada also reiterated that the initiative aims to institutionalize accountability, protect employee welfare, and ensure that public service remains free from the influence of illegal substances. Once granted, the Drug Free Workplace accreditation will serve as a testament to the province’s active participation in the national anti-drug campaign and as a model of good governance for other local government units. /mccd
[This article was first created on Facebook – Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya. For PGNV updates, visit: https://www.facebook.com/vizcayareporter]