The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has denied circulating an
advisory on milk tea products that allegedly contain psychoactive substances
found in the Cannabis sativa plant, more commonly known as marijuana.
In a statement, PDEA Director General Moro Virgilio Lazo said that he did not
sign the document that has been circulating online.
The signature on the document was meant to be an X mark, and it was only
intended for internal use within PDEA.
“For if you fail the drug test, you face the consequence. No ifs no buts,” Lazo
said.
PDEA is not the government agency that is mandated to determine and check
the safety of food and beverage products for public consumption, Lazo added.
However, the agency said that it will closely coordinate with the proper
authorities to submit its findings.
The public is advised to be wary of any information that they see online, and
to only rely on information from official sources, according to PDEA.
Here are some tips for staying safe when consuming milk tea:
Buy milk tea from reputable establishments.
Ask about the ingredients of the milk tea before you order.
Be aware of the signs of marijuana intoxication, such as red eyes, dry
mouth, and dilated pupils.
If you suspect that you have consumed milk tea that contains
marijuana, seek medical attention immediately.