MANILA — Dismissal proceedings will be initiated against a police officer assigned to the Palompon Municipal Police Station in Leyte after he tested positive for illegal drug use, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

The police officer, with the rank of police corporal, was among the subjects of a targeted drug test conducted on Dec. 5, with results released on Dec. 13.

The drug test stemmed from a report received in September by Team 8 of the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group regarding a police officer allegedly using illegal drugs. After a series of validations confirmed the information, the team prepared Target Intelligence Packet “K9,” which led to the inclusion of the police officer in a random drug testing conducted by the Regional Field Unit-8.

Test results showed that the police officer tested positive for methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu,” according to a PNP statement released Sunday.

“We are deeply concerned and disappointed. Walang puwang sa Philippine National Police ang paggamit ng ilegal na droga lalo na sa mga inaasahang magpatupad ng batas (The Philippine National Police prohibits the use of illegal drugs, especially among law enforcers). This case reinforces our commitment to cleanse our ranks,” Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.

Nartatez directed the immediate filing of administrative cases against the police officer in line with existing PNP rules, with dismissal from the service among the penalties being pursued if the charges are proven.

He also said criminal cases may be filed if supported by evidence, stressing that no one in the organization is exempt from accountability.

“Let this be a clear message that the Philippine National Police is no place for those involved in or using illegal drugs. Our counter-intelligence operation and internal cleansing mechanisms are strong. We will run after you and make sure that you will suffer the consequences as part of our commitment to protect the integrity of the organization and the honor of the badge,” Nartatez said. (PNA)