DRUG TEST ORDERED FOR B'GAY, SK BETS

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has ordered all candidates in
the coming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections to
undergo drug testing.

The Comelec issued a resolution requiring all candidates to submit a
certificate of drug test attached to their certificate of candidacy (COC).

The poll body noted that the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act
provides that all civil servants, whether appointed or elected,
should undergo mandatory drug testing.

The law applies to candidates for Punong Barangay, Sangguniang
Barangay Kagawad Barangay, Sangguniang Kabataan Chairman and
Sangguniang Kabataan Kagawad in the scheduled Oct. 29, 2007
synchronized barangay and SK elections.

Candidates are required to secure their drug test certificates at
the drug testing centers authorized or accredited by the Department
of Health (DOH).

The certificates should be filed before the Comelec regional offices
not later than Oct. 18.

All election officers will then submit the list of candidates and
their respective certificates before the Comelec law department.

Candidates who fail to comply with the requirements will be
disqualified to participate in the elections.

On the other hand, the filing of the COC for the barangay and SK
elections will start on Sept. 29 up to Oct. 18.

The Comelec adjusted the period of filing of COC to allow candidates
more time to prepare in the coming polls.

Comelec said the COCs shall be filed during regular office hours,
except on the last day, when filing hours will be extended up to midnight.