CANDIDATES URGED TO UNDERGO DRUG TEST

SENATOR Francis Pangilinan has urged candidates for 2004 elections to
undergo drug test to prove they are willing to comply with the law.

This would also show that the candidates are willing to help curb drug
menace by setting an example, Pangilinan added.

"They should undergo if that is what the law says. The candidates
choose to run voluntarily hence, they should comply with the
requirements of the law," Pangilinan said.

He said the new drug law mandates that every politician, who expresses
intentions to run for any position, should undergo drug test to
determine if they are physically fit.

Pangilinan said public officials should be cleared of drug problems in
order to gain public trust.

"Public office is a public trust. Those who run for office should be
fit and capable, even clean when it comes to drugs," Pangilinan said.

He likewise challenged candidates to voluntarily submit themselves to
the drug test and disclose to the public the result of the examination
to show transparency and honesty in public service.