LTO orders bus roadworthiness checks, crew drug tests for Undas

Vigor Mendoza II —LTO Facebook photo

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Wednesday directed all regional directors to conduct roadworthiness inspections on passenger buses and drug tests for the crew amid the expected influx of travelers during the commemoration of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day or Undas.

According to the LTO in a statement, LTO Sec. Vigor Mendoza II ordered the random drug testing to be conducted on both bus drivers and conductors.

READ: LIVE UPDATES: Undas 2024

“We expect the bus companies to do their part in ensuring safe travel for our kababayan. On the part of the LTO, the intervention is on the inspection of passenger buses and the conduct of random and surprise drug testing,” said Mendoza.

Furthermore, Mendoza also said that bus drivers’ mental and physical preparedness must also be checked.

LTO all set for Undas

Meanwhile, as part of its preparations for Undas, Mendoza said the LTO will deploy a “sufficient number of LTO personnel” to assist in traffic management.

“Our personnel will be there on major thoroughfares in coordination with other agencies like the Philippine National Police. Our goal is to ensure that this year’s Undas will be peaceful, safe and hassle-free to all our kababayan,” said Mendoza.

He then urged the public to plan their travel well, especially those heading to the areas affected by the recent weather disturbances.

Mendoza also reminded motorists using their own vehicles to also check their cars’ roadworthiness, from its brakes and wheels, down to its basic parts—to ensure not just their family’s but other travelers’ safety.

“And most importantly, magbaon tayo ng mahabang pasensya (bring your patience with you). Walang maibubunga ang init ng ulo sa daan (being hot-headed would not do anyone good),” he added.

Commuters, on the other hand, may report any misbehavior on the road through the “Aksyon on the Spot” at 09292920865.