Three bus drivers who tested positive for drug use will be kept off the road, in line with the Department of Transportation and Communications’ (DOTC) efforts to make travelling safe for motorists this holiday season.
The DOTC said its random drug tests at major public transport terminals over the week showed that some bus drivers had not yet kicked the drug habit, despite the recent crackdown on illegal substances in the aftermath of several highly-publicized road mishaps.
The department said officers of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Friday apprehended three drivers—two from Cebu province and one from Metro Manila—who tested positive for drug use.
Random drug tests were first carried out by the DOTC through its line agencies last November.
“Because of the success of the project, we implemented it again this holiday season. The fact that we were able to ferret out suspected drug users shows that the project works to ensure safe travel for all passengers,” LTFRB Chair Jaime Jacob said.
Drivers found to be drug users will face the corresponding legal penalties, he added, including the confiscation of their licenses.
The drug tests, which were simultaneously conducted in bus terminals in Metro Manila (Pasay City, Quezon City and Manila), Cebu (South Bus Terminal), Iloilo and Bacolod City (North Terminal), are a core component of the DOTC’s “Safe Christmas” campaign.
Edgardo Cabase, LTO senior director of the law enforcement service, said 202 drivers of 68 buses were inspected from Dec. 21 to 23 in Cebu. Two of those tested yielded positive results for drugs.
In Metro Manila, the LTO inspected 72 buses, and tested 67 drivers, one of whom was also found to be positive for drugs. In Iloilo, 54 buses were inspected, and 10 drivers were tested, while 45 buses were checked, and 24 drivers were tested in Bacolod. All yielded negative results for drugs.
The use of drugs, particularly stimulants like metamphetamine or “shabu,” is common among drivers who have to stay awake during long drives.