LTO to continue nationwide random alcohol, drug testing of PUV drivers
MANILA, Philippines – The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Wednesday said it would continue conducting random nationwide inspections and drug tests of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers to protect the safety of road users.
The LTO said the move is in keeping with Section 15 of Republic Act No. 10856 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.
“This is part of the LTO’s objective to ensure the safety of road users, especially the riding public, so they will not become victims of road crash incidents,” the LTO said in a statement.
“The LTO aims to help avert these incidents by preventing drivers under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs from operating a motor vehicle by confiscating their driver’s license and requiring them to undergo drug rehabilitation,” it added.
According to the LTO, 558 road crash incidents have been recorded from January to August 2022, with August registering the most significant number at 128 and 476 drivers testing positive for alcoholic intoxication.
The licenses of drivers who tested positive for alcohol intoxication were then placed under alarm and preventive suspension for 90 days while waiting for the administrative sanctions and associated penalties that will be applied to the violators.
The LTO then reminded the public not to consume alcohol if they plan to drive a vehicle.
“Time and again, we have all seen the disastrous consequences brought about by drunk or drugged driving, more importantly during the Yuletide season, where many families go out to celebrate and be merry. It is time that we change that mindset to avert the loss of life and property,” said LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Teofilo Guadiz. — Alyssa Joy Quevedo, INQUIRER.net trainee
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