Palompon, Leyte cop found positive for shabu faces dismissal

The head of the Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered the filing of administrative cases against a police officer in Palompon, Leyte, who tested positive for shabu.

In a statement Sunday, PNP acting chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said a police corporal assigned to the Palompon Municipal Police Station tested positive for illegal drugs in a targeted test conducted on December 5.

The police officer was reportedly involved in the use of narcotics in September 2025.

Nartatez said criminal charges may follow if supported by evidence, adding that no one in the organization is exempt from accountability.

“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. This case reinforces our commitment to cleanse our ranks,” Nartatez said.

(We are deeply concerned and disappointed. The use of illegal drugs has no place in the Philippine National Police, especially among those tasked with enforcing the law. This case reinforces our commitment to cleanse our ranks.)

He added that while the incident is considered isolated, it is being addressed firmly and without hesitation.

Nartatez also ordered expanded intelligence-driven and random drug tests for police units nationwide, especially frontline and operational personnel. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News