On his first day in office Monday, Mayor Greg Gasataya took a drug test to serve notice that he will enforce a drug-free city government policy in Bacolod.
He tested negative for the use of illegal drugs at the City Health Office.
Gasataya said undergoing a drug test is voluntary, but he will require his executive assistants and other co-terminus appointees to subject themselves to drug tests as well.
“This is a campaign of the government to ensure that we function well (as government officials) and it is part of the campaign against illegal drugs. We want to set an example. This is not mandatory, but as elected officials it is our responsibility,” the first-term local chief executive said in a media interview.
Gasataya’s first executive order directed the establishment of the senior citizen center at the Government Center Annex Building.
“The City Government of Bacolod recognizes the valuable role of senior citizens in the development of society and aims to enhance their quality of life by ensuring their welfare and well-being through the provision of accessible programs and services,” he said.
Another executive order directed all city government staff to return to their mother units or original plantilla assignments effective July 1.
“It is imperative that all city government personnel are properly accounted for in terms of their respective plantilla positions and designated offices,” he said.*PNA