Albuera, Leyte, Takes a Stance Against Illegal Drugs

The local government unit of Albuera, Leyte, under the leadership of Mayor Kerwin Espinosa, is determined to rid the town of illegal drugs. As part of this effort, Espinosa is implementing regular random drug testing among elected officials and local government employees to ensure a drug-free workplace. The program, managed by Leah Tamse, has already seen results, with 360 employees tested over July 2-7, of which three tested positive for illegal drug use.

Key Takeaways:

• The local government unit of Albuera, Leyte, under Mayor Kerwin Espinosa, has implemented regular random drug testing among elected officials and local government employees to ensure a drug-free workplace.
• The program, managed by Leah Tamse, has subjected 360 employees to random drug testing, with three testing positive for illegal drug use.
• Under the rule, non-regular employees who test positive will be terminated, while regular employees will undergo rehabilitation.
• Mayor Espinosa's campaign promise includes a fight against illegal drugs, urging traders and users to surrender and undergo rehabilitation or leave the town.
• In 2016, former President Rodrigo Duterte accused Kerwin and his father Roland Espinosa of involvement in the narcotics trade.
• Kerwin Espinosa was released from jail in 2023 after the Regional Trial Court in Baybay City junked the drug-related case against him for lack of evidence.

Statistics:

• 360 employees were subjected to random drug testing between July 2-7.
• Three employees tested positive for illegal drug use.
• 3 employees will undergo rehabilitation, while non-regular employees will be terminated.

Sources:

• Philippines News agency, "Albuera Mayor Conducts Random Drug Testing to Ensure a Drug-Free Workplace" (14 Jul 2025)