“SURPRISE” drug tests were conducted at various Iloilo transport terminals recently. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 6 and Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 6, through their “Oplan Harabas” initiative, found one driver who tested positive for drug use.
While one may seem insignificant, the implications are far-reaching. A single driver under the influence of illegal substances has the potential to endanger not only themselves but the lives of countless passengers and fellow motorists. One thing is clear: the battle against drug use on our roads remains far from over.
Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and Republic Act 10586, the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, are the cornerstones of the government’s efforts to combat drug use and maintain road safety. These laws, coupled with PDEA’s and LTO’s initiatives, have been instrumental in minimizing accidents caused by drivers under the influence. However, the Iloilo experience suggests that while the laws are robust on paper, there is a pressing need for stricter enforcement and expanded safety measures.
Road safety is especially critical in Iloilo, where the rapid urbanization has increased traffic congestion and the demand for public transportation. Drivers of buses, jeepneys, and even airport transport vehicles shoulder an immense responsibility for public safety. Yet, despite these laws, there are still those who risk lives by operating vehicles under the influence of drugs.
One of the key challenges lies in ensuring that laws like RA 10586 are not just implemented sporadically, but consistently. The surprise drug tests conducted in Iloilo’s transport terminals are smart, but they should be conducted more regularly and expanded to include more checkpoints, especially during peak travel seasons like holidays and festivals. This will serve as a deterrent for drivers who might be tempted to use illegal substances, knowing that drug tests can happen at any time.
We must also call for stricter penalties for those found violating these laws. Confiscating a license is a start, but additional consequences, such as mandatory rehabilitation and suspension of public transport operations for non-compliant companies, should be explored. This would send a strong message that the government prioritizes the safety of commuters and will not tolerate any form of negligence.
The distribution of drug prevention materials during the recent “Oplan Harabas” campaign is a step in the right direction. However, there is room to further educate drivers, conductors, and even commuters on the dangers of drug use in the transportation sector. Transport companies should also take an active role by enforcing their own internal drug-free policies and conducting regular in-house drug testing.
Iloilo has come a long way in terms of infrastructure and development, but none of that progress will matter if our roads are not safe. We urge local authorities to continue improving the enforcement of RA 9165 and RA 10586 and explore new ways to strengthen road safety regulations.
Let’s work together to ensure that our public transport system remains free of drugs and that every journey taken is a safe one. Safer roads for Iloilo mean a safer future for all Ilonggos.
