Senate to implement stricter random drug testing

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva reiterated his support for random drug testing for all senators, officials, and staff in the Senate on Friday.

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri stated that he will subject himself and his office to a drug test starting Monday, emphasizing that everyone should undergo testing including lawmakers themselves.

Vicente Sotto III, the Senate Minority Leader, reiterated his request to Senate President Francis Escudero to implement mandatory random drug testing in the Senate after reports of marijuana use by a staff member.

Escudero confirmed on Monday that the Senate conducted its most recent mandatory random drug test (MRDT) for officials and employees on March 20, 2025, and is now reviewing the policy for stricter implementation.

The Senate is currently finalizing updated guidelines in consultation with various offices to ensure transparency and adherence to legal standards.