Supreme Court Says Government Workers Using Drugs Should Undergo Rehab First
The Supreme Court rules that government workers who test positive for illegal drugs should undergo rehabilitation first.
SC has decided that government employees who test positive for illegal drugs should first be given a chance to undergo rehabilitation. The court stressed that dismissal should only happen if the employee refuses to cooperate or fails to complete the intervention program.
According to the ruling, drug use and dependence are not just criminal offenses but also health conditions that require treatment. Because of this, the court emphasized the importance of providing support and recovery opportunities instead of immediate punishment.
The decision came after the case of Carlito Salomon, a city engineer from Muntinlupa, who tested positive for shabu in two separate drug tests. The Court of Appeals had earlier found him guilty of grave misconduct.
However, the Supreme Court decided to suspend his penalty for now and ordered a new drug test to be done.
If Salomon tests negative in this new screening, he will no longer need to go through treatment. His eligibility and benefits as a public servant may also be reviewed by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) for possible reinstatement.
But if he tests positive again, he will be required to undergo a drug dependency assessment and join a rehabilitation program. If he successfully completes it and is later certified by his doctor as fit to return to work, the CSC will once again evaluate his status as a government employee.
The Supreme Court’s move shows a more compassionate and health-based approach to drug issues in the public sector, aiming to help employees recover rather than be immediately removed from service.
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