Nine members of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) were placed under restriction after they were tested positive for the use of illegal drugs during the random drug testing conducted in Dumaguete City on Wednesday.

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson, Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, a total of 281 personnel of the PCG District Southern Visayas were subjected to the drug testing at Barangay Calindagan, Dumaguete City.

The result of the initial screening showed that nine personnel including eight males and one female, yielded positive findings.

Cayabyab said the nine PCG personnel were immediately placed under restriction pending the release of confirmatory laboratory results.

"In accordance with existing rules, those who will be confirmed to be positive will face appropriate disciplinary actions, which include dismissal from the Coast Guard service," she said.

"Based on the directive of PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil L Gavan, we continue to implement regular and unannounced drug testing as part of our commitment to ensuring that all personnel remain physically and mentally fit to perform their duties," she added. Robina Asido/PHS