DepEd reaffirms zero-tolerance policy after school drug incident

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Iloilo has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on illegal drugs following an incident at Abangay National High School in Janiuay, Iloilo.

On Sept. 4, a 16-year-old Grade 9 student was found in possession of a plastic sachet containing suspected illegal drugs during a classroom inspection.

Reports from Aksyon Radyo-Iloilo indicated that the discovery occurred after a teacher conducted a search of several male students based on information that someone had brought a knife to school.

The sachet, found in the student’s sock, contained approximately 0.02 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of P500.

Police Capt. Alwyn Salmon, head of the Janiuay Municipal Police Station, said the student underwent a drug test but did not admit to using illegal drugs or disclose the source of the substance. The student has been turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) while awaiting the drug test results.

In a statement released on Sept. 6, DepEd-Iloilo reaffirmed its strict zero-tolerance policy on illegal drugs within school premises. This is in accordance with DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012, and DepEd Order No. 55, s. 2013, which mandate a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of child abuse, including exploitation, violence, discrimination, bullying, and other abuses.

The department emphasized that immediate actions have been taken, including cooperation with local authorities.

DepEd also pledged to strengthen its drug prevention and education programs to ensure a safe learning environment.

“Our commitment to student safety remains unwavering, and we are dedicated to providing necessary support and rehabilitation for the affected student,” the statement said.

DepEd further called on stakeholders to support its efforts to maintain drug-free campuses.