Supreme Court Dismisses Three Court of Appeals Employees for Drug Use

Manila – The Supreme Court of the Philippines announced on Monday the dismissal of three Court of Appeals employees following their positive tests for illegal drug use.

According to Philippines News Agency, employees Garry U. Caliwan, Edmundo T. Malit, and Frederick C. Mauricio were found administratively liable for the serious charge of illegal drug use. The trio had tested positive for shabu, a methamphetamine, during a random drug testing conducted by the Court of Appeals in 2022. The findings were later confirmed by a Department of Health-Dangerous Drugs Board accredited laboratory.

The Judicial Integrity Board (JIB) advised that Caliwan, Malit, and Mauricio be dismissed from service for their violations. In the case of Mauricio, who had taken early retirement, the JIB recommended imposing accessory penalties including the forfeiture of his retirement benefits (with the exception of accrued leave credits) and perpetual disqualification from holding public office.

The Supreme Court clarified that the use of prohibited drugs by members, officials, employees, and personnel of the Judiciary is now classified under the serious charge of possession and/or use of illegal drugs or substances, as per Rule 140 of the Rules of Court, amended to address such offenses distinctly from grave misconduct. This decision underscores the judiciary’s strict stance on maintaining integrity and discipline within its ranks.