Mandaluyong City Police Chief Relieved from Duty After Testing Positive for Drugs
In a recent development, the chief of Mandaluyong City Police, Col. Cesar Gerente, has been relieved from his duties after testing positive for drugs. The Eastern Police Department (EPD) made the announcement, stating that Gerente’s positive test came during a surprise drug examination conducted by the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on August 24.
EPD Director PBGen. Wilson Asueta confirmed the news and revealed that the drug test was part of a broader initiative to screen the top brass, commanders, and chiefs of various offices and support units within the NCRPO. The purpose of this random drug testing is to detect and remove drug-using police officers from their ranks.
As a result of the positive test, Gerente has been assigned to the Regional Personnel Holding and Accounting Section under the Regional Personnel and Records Management Division of NCRPO. He will further undergo investigation, and administrative charges may be filed against him.
In response to the incident, the NCRPO conducted another drug test on all 497 personnel of the Mandaluyong City Police Station on August 28. Fortunately, all of the officers tested negative, providing assurance that the police force remains committed to upholding the highest ethical standards.
NCRPO Director Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez emphasized the importance of integrity enhancement within the police force. He stated that random drug tests are part of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr.’s five-focus agenda, which aims to strengthen internal disciplinary mechanisms and prevent corruption and other issues within the ranks.
Meanwhile, Mandaluyong City Mayor Ben Abalos and other city government officials welcomed the appointment of PCol. Mary Grace Madayag as the new acting chief of police for Mandaluyong City. Mayor Abalos expressed support for the NCRPO’s efforts to cleanse the police force of drug users, aligning with the government’s goal of a drug-free country.
Abalos called for strict tests and the enforcement of high standards in the selection process for the next chief of police to avoid similar issues in the future. He assured the public that the local government will continue to work towards a peaceful, brighter, and more prosperous future for everyone.
