AT LEAST seven public utility drivers were found positive for using illegal drugs after the Land Transportation Office in Central Visayas (LTO-7) conducted a surprise roadside drug test on Friday in Talisay City.
LTO-7 Director Raul Aguilos said the conducted the roadside drug test on 53 PUV drivers along the national road of Linao, Talisay City.
The roadside drug test is part of the LTO-7’s effort to ensure the safety of travelers for the All Souls’ and All Saints’ Days celebrations.
Aguilos said seven drivers—three mini bus drivers and four jeepney drivers—were found positive for shabu use.
“We have confiscated their licenses and they can not drive pending the result of the confirmatory test to be done in Manila”, Aguilos said.
If the confirmatory test will still get a positive result, then the LTO-7 will revoke the licenses of these drivers.
Aguilos, however, said these drivers could reapply for a license after six months but they would have to pay a P15,000 penalty and would have to undergo rehabilitation under the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-accredited drug rehabilitation centers./Correspondent Jhunnex Napallacan