World · Philippines Bureau
DILG chief orders drug test for Isabela vice mayor after viral outburst
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla has directed Vice Mayor Jeryll Harold Respicio of Reina Mercedes, Isabela to undergo drug testing following a disruptive incident during a municipal session that drew online attention.
LSN Philippines ·
Manila — Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced Wednesday that he would require Vice Mayor Jeryll Harold Respicio of Reina Mercedes, Isabela to submit to a drug test following an unusual outburst during a Sangguniang Bayan session.
Remulla characterized the vice mayor's behavior during the municipal assembly as erratic, suggesting the incident warranted medical evaluation. The secretary said he would advise Respicio to comply with the drug testing requirement.
The incident gained traction on social media, prompting the Interior Department's intervention. Remulla's directive underscores the government's concern over the conduct of local officials during official proceedings.
The Sangguniang Bayan, the legislative body of municipalities in the Philippines, serves as the venue for deliberations on local governance matters. Disruptions during sessions can impede government operations and undermine public confidence in local institutions.