Malaca±ang: Malaca±ang on Wednesday expressed concern over the proposed measure mandating drug testing for all public officials, warning that it could violate the law and the Constitution.

According to Philippines News Agency, this response came after Senator Robin Padilla proposed that all government officials, regardless of rank or position, should undergo drug testing. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro addressed the issue in a press briefing, suggesting that Senator Padilla should familiarize himself with the court's decision on this matter.

Castro mentioned that while the proposal aims to ensure transparency and a drug-free government, it might not hold up under legal scrutiny. She cited a 2008 Supreme Court decision in the case of Social Justice Society vs. Dangerous Drugs Board, which declared that mandatory universal drug testing for public officials is unconstitutional as it infringes on the right to privacy.

The Supreme Court ruling specified that universal drug testing violates privacy rights and can only be conducted randomly and under reasonable circumstances. Castro emphasized that mandatory universal testing is not permitted and warned against its implementation without considering legal implications.

Castro also cautioned that pursuing mandatory drug testing, without a solid legal foundation, could lead to unnecessary expenditure of government resources. She advised Senator Padilla to thoroughly study the legal aspects of the proposal to avoid wasting time and public funds.