PDEA: 84 drivers test positive for drug use in Holy Week ops

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Eighty-four public transportation drivers and two conductors tested positive for illegal drug use in Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency’s (PDEA) screening operations amid the Holy Week exodus.

The 84 drivers who tested positive included 37 tricycle drivers, 19 jeepney drivers, 13 bus drivers, 11 UV express drivers, two motorcycle taxi riders and one taxi driver, PDEA said in a statement on Thursday.

The agency also said the drivers who tested positive were barred from driving and had their licenses confiscated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

“They must undergo the rehabilitation process and intervention programs provided by the local government before reclaiming their licenses,” the PDEA said.

It added that the screenings were done in major passenger terminals across the country on Wednesday, but the agency has yet to detail the number and locations of these sites.

“In light of the heavy influx of Holy Week travelers eager to come home and be with their families, PDEA implemented these drug tests to ensure the safety of the riding public,” Director General Isagani Nerez said in a statement.

The operations were in line with Republic Act No. 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act.

READ: LTO eyes random bus inspections, driver drug tests for Holy Week exodus

The LTO previously said random and surprise drug testing for drivers was considered to ensure their fitness to drive as part of transport officials’ preparations for the Holy Week exodus.