Sotto urges random drug testing in Senate after illegal substance smell report

• Senate Minority Leader Tito Sotto recommends random drug testing in the Senate after a suspected marijuana odor was reported
• Former actress and Padilla staffer Nadia Montenegro was mentioned in the OSAA report but denied using marijuana, citing her vape as the possible source
• Senate President Chiz Escudero ordered a formal investigation, while Padilla’s office launched its own probe
• Montenegro was placed on leave effective August 13, with Padilla’s office advising her to undergo a drug test

Senate Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III has recommended the conduct of random drug testing in the Senate following suspicions that a staff member of a senator may have used marijuana inside the chamber’s premises.

The matter came after the Senate Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) released a report regarding the search for the source of a suspected marijuana odor within the building.

The name of former actress Nadia Montenegro, who works under Senator Robin Padilla’s office, was mentioned in the report.

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In a report by Nimfa Ravelo on Super Radyo dzBB on Friday, Sotto recalled that he also ordered random drug testing in the Senate when he was Senate President during the 18th Congress to ensure that the institution remained drug-free.

On Thursday, current Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero directed a formal investigation into the incident.

Padilla’s office likewise conducted its own probe after Montenegro’s name surfaced in the OSAA report.

According to the OSAA, Montenegro denied using marijuana but admitted to having a vape, which could have been the source of the unusual odor.

Atty. Rudolf Philip Jurado, Padilla’s chief of staff, clarified that Montenegro was not terminated but was instead placed on leave.

“Nadia Montenegro did not resign from our office. She is only on leave,” Jurado said, noting that her leave took effect on August 13.

He added that Montenegro had been advised to undergo a drug test. Jurado earlier confirmed that their office had already required an explanation from the staff member mentioned in the OSAA report.

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Vicente “Tito” Sotto III is a Filipino politician, television personality, and former Senate President who has served in public office for decades. Best known as a long-time senator, he played key roles in legislation on health, culture, and public order, while also being a prominent figure in the entertainment industry as a comedian, actor, and host. Sotto is widely recognized for his influence in both politics and show business, making him one of the most notable public figures in the Philippines.

Recently, the senator-elect paid tribute to Freddie Aguilar, calling him one of the best singer/composers he ever produced. He expressed heartfelt admiration on social media, saying Aguilar will now perform for a far greater audience, accompanied by praying hands and heart emojis. Freddie Aguilar, known for his iconic song Anak, made a lasting mark on Filipino music with powerful, socially relevant compositions. Sotto and Aguilar shared a long-standing professional and personal connection from their time in the OPM scene, making the tribute especially meaningful.

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Last month, TitoSen confirmed there are ongoing talks between him and some senators for the Senate Presidency. The senator-elect revealed that several colleagues have approached him, expressing their support for his potential leadership bid in the 20th Congress. The incoming senator then expressed his willingness to accept the Senate Presidency if he has the support of the majority. He then indicated his readiness to lead if he secures the backing of at least 13 senators, as required by Senate rules.

Source: KAMI.com.gh