The Role UM Plays in Strengthening Drug-Free Workplaces in Davao City

Davao City, Philippines - The University of Mindanao (UM) once again served as host for the Drug-Free Workplace Training held on September 17–18, 2025, at Cagliari Hall, UM Matina Campus. The two-day training brought together 70 participants from 26 business establishments in Davao City, including HR supervisors, safety officers, operations managers, and business proprietors.

The program equipped participants with the knowledge and practical tools to design and implement effective Drug-Free Workplace Programs, strengthening workplace safety, compliance, and productivity.

The Drug-Free Workplace Program is mandated under DOLE Department Order 53, s. 2003 and Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. This was further reinforced by Davao City Ordinance 0503-13, which requires establishments with ten or more employees to conduct mandatory random drug testing, provide intervention programs, and deliver preventive education on the dangers of drug abuse.

This initiative also advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by promoting healthy and safe workplaces free from the risks of substance abuse, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, by supporting government efforts to strengthen workplace governance, compliance, and accountability.

As a member of the Technical Working Group (TWG) of the Davao LGU, UM continues to play a vital role as a trusted training provider for this initiative. The session featured expert resource speakers from PDEA XI, DOLE XI, and the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council, who guided participants in developing their own workplace drug policies and drafting a three-year prevention and intervention plan.

The training concluded with participants expressing their appreciation and renewing their commitment to support the government’s campaign against drug abuse, reinforcing UM’s contribution to creating safer and more resilient workplaces in Davao City.