Mandaluyong top cop tests positive anew in confirmatory drug test

Mandaluyong City Police chief Cesar Gerente tested positive again for illegal drugs on Thursday, Philippine National Police spokesperson Colonel Jean Fajardo said.

“Dahil meron na tayong resulta ng confirmatory test, ay sinimulan na rin po yung pre-charge investigation at nakausap nga po natin yung investigating unit po ng NCRPO at siya po ay kakasuhan po ng conduct unbecoming of a police officer po for testing positive for drug test,” Fajardo said in a “24 Oras” interview with Oscar Oida.

Gerente has been relieved from his post after testing positive for illegal drugs on August 24, according to Eastern Police District (EPD) Director Police Brigadier General Wilson Asueta.

The authorities said that Gerente could be removed from the police force and  face criminal charges for his alleged offense.

“Meron po siyang 15 days to challenge nga po itong result ng confirmatory test. Then, antayin po natin 'yan na kung i-cha-challenge niya itong result ng confirmatory test but since we already have the findings of the confirmatory test this will be the basis para nga po gumulong na nga po itong pre-charge investigation,” Fajardo added.

Gerente is currently under the custody of the National Capital Region Police Office.

GMA Integrated News tried to get his statement but has yet to respond.

Meanwhile, the EPD vowed to continue conducting mandatory random drug testing to ensure discipline and integrity in the police force.—Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA Integrated News