What show biz people think of compulsory drug testing

The show biz industry is now the focus of the Duterte government’s crackdown on illegal drugs following the inclusion of 50 stars on his “narcolist.” Three have in fact been the subject of recent arrests, namely: Mark Anthony Fernandez, Krista Miller and Sabrina M.

The police’s most recent catch, and probably the most publicized so far, was Mark Anthony, 37, who was found in possession of a kilo of marijuana in his car on Oct. 3. The son of the late action star Rudy Fernandez and actress Alma Moreno told police that he has been using marijuana for medical purposes.

Three days earlier, Krista (Kristalyn Engle in real life), 26, was arrested in a drug-bust operation in Valenzuela City.

On Sept. 25, Sabrina M, 36, was arrested in an antidrug operation by the Quezon City police.

Ma. Aurora Moynihan, 45, the sister of actress Maritoni Fernandez, was found dead with multiple gunshot wounds by authorities on Sept. 10 in Pasig City. Beside her was a cardboard placard, warning drug sellers who cater to celebrities that “they will be next.”

In light of the administration’s controversial antidrug war and recent arrests, should show biz people be subjected to compulsory drug testing?

Inquirer interviewed seven entertainment personalities on their views on this burning issue.

Yael Yuzon

Yael Yuzon of Sponge Cola: I have no problem with taking a drug test. I guess we are all under scrutiny. It’s just right that all industries get checked. If the government will be strict, it should be strict to all sectors.

I will have to take a drug test on my birthday in November, anyway, so that will not be random anymore. I don’t do drugs, but this needs to be done.

I know I may fit the profile (of a drug user), because I sing in a band, but that’s stereotyping. It does not apply to me.

This October, we have 26 gigs in 31 days. I will not be able to survive this if I’m not healthy. What I do every day is train for marathon, and take vitamins.

JC de Vera

JC de Vera: That’s (drug testing) perfectly fine with me. I think it’s time for everyone to undergo testing. If the result comes out negative, then that’s good. If you’re not using illegal drugs, then you don’t have to be afraid to take it. I believe that subjecting everyone in the industry to drug testing will do more good than harm.

I have mixed emotions about the idea that the industry is now the government’s target. There are films that carry illegal drug use as a theme, and there are actors who think they cannot portray the role of a drug addict effectively without actually using drugs.

As for me, I just ask people—those who have tried it—how they feel. I don’t think I have to actually try it.

Ryza Cenon

Ryza Cenon: I’m clean. I have nothing to worry about. I’m willing to do it because I know that it’s for my own good. To be fair to everyone, the show biz industry should also be open to this.

If you are sure that you’re clean, why would you feel offended being subjected to testing? Actors are idolized by the youth. It would be a good thing to know that the people they emulate deserve to be called their idols.

Martin del Rosario: Show biz people need to do this in order to distinguish drug users from those who aren’t. These users need more attention than the rest of us. I have no problem with taking the test.

This has already been done to policemen, politicians and even to judges. It’s part of our responsibility as celebrities to promote awareness on the negative effects of illegal drugs.

Martin del Rosario

Arnold Reyes: I don’t mind taking the drug test because I’m not a drug user, anyway. I’m ready, any time. I just don’t know with other celebrities, because I hear rumors that some of them do take drugs. I just hope that people in government will not make sweeping statements.

Artists, who are always at the frontline, also have a reputation to protect. Go easy on us. While others, like politicians and those working in government agencies, have obligations to the Filipino people, actors and performers are still private citizens.

Anna Luna: I’m OK with the ongoing drug testing because industry people will benefit from this eventually. I’m willing to submit myself to tests. I hope the government will be able to keep its promise of getting rid of illegal drugs in the country in six months’ time.

I’m keeping a positive outlook. I believe that all the programs that the government is initiating now will eventually help improve our lives.

Paul Cedric Juan: I believe that as citizens of the Philippines, we should subject ourselves to drug testing—no matter which industry we belong to. We all need confirmation.

We should all be able to tell ourselves that “Yes, I’m safe. I’m drug-free.” If you know that you’re not into illegal drugs, why would you feel worried? —Photos by Alec Corpuz