CHR warns schools on drug testing

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Thursday cautioned higher education institutions (HEIs) on implementing mandatory drug testing on students.

CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said they recognize the intent of the Commission on Higher Education (CHR) in ensuring a safe and drug-free environment for the youth.

“Strict guidelines in its implementation should be observed, including a prohibition from imposing sanctions – be it administrative or criminal – to students who are found to be users or dependents, including those who refuse to undergo the random drug testing,” she added.

Instead of condemning students found to be drug users, she said the government and the education institutions should move toward reformation of users or dependents.

Last month, CHED issued the implementing guidelines for the conduct of drug testing on college students, citing provisions of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

“All HEIs are enjoined to include in their student’s handbook the conduct of mandatory random drug testing of students, with notice to parents. Aside from random drug testing, an HEI may, within the parameters of its institutional academic freedom, also include in its student’s handbook a policy for the conduct of mandatory drug testing as a requirement for admission and retention, after observation of consultation and other similar requirements,” it added.

The guidelines also allowed the conduct of any legitimate drug-related operation inside colleges and universities, provided that they coordinate first with school officials.