ILOILO City – Drivers of jeepneys, taxis, tricycles, and buses subjected to unannounced drug tests on March 29 all passed, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 6.
Director Alex Tablate said of the total 157 drivers, 82 were in Iloilo City and 75 in Bacolod City.
The drug tests were part of PDEA’s Oplan Harabas, Drug Test Muna Bago Pasada “to prevent road accidents since summer has started,” said Tablate.
“Maraming aksidente sa lansangan kasi may mga drivers na positive sa illegal drugs,” he lamented.
More unannounced drug tests targeting drivers of public utility vehicles would be conducted, according to the director.
“Those who test positive for illegal drugs risk the revocation of their driver’s licenses. They also face criminal charges,” said Tablate.
The riding public’s safety is paramount, he stressed.
The drug tests were conducted in coordination with the Philippine National Police, Land Transportation Office (LTO), and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.
PDEA director General Aaron Aquino said these were part of the holistic approach to monitor drivers under the influence of illegal drugs.
“Drivers who refuse to undergo drug tests would be reported immediately to the LTO, said Aquino.
He added, “This program will serve as our revalidation effort on the alleged illegal drug use by drivers of public transport. At the same time, it promotes a drug-free public transport system.”/PN
