Strict medical exams for drivers pushed

A TRANSPORT group called on the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) to tighten the medical examinations for driver's license applicants because of the series of deadly road mishaps recently.

George San Mateo, secretary general of the Pinag-Isang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operaytors Nationwide (Piston), said the existing protocols at the Land Transportation Office (LTO) are not enough to deter irregularities in the application of license.

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“We are aware of the irregularities in drug testing and the other medical requirements wherein applicants can just pay extra cash to make sure that he or she would pass the test,” stressed San Mateo.

He also urged DOTC to subsidize the cost of drug tests for all Public Utility Vehicle drivers nationwide, junking the neuro-psychological test as a requirement for applicants.

“Instead of imposing new requirements such as neuro-psychological testing, the LTO should perfect the system first by eliminating fixers,” he added.

Among the concerns the group raised are the existence of fly-by-night drug testing centers that use inaccurate testing equipments and offer favorable test outcomes in exchange of higher fees.

In their bid to rid the streets of drivers under the influence of drugs, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) asked transport leaders to submit their drivers and conductors to a voluntary drug testing.

The PDEA’s proposal was supported by LTO, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and several bus operators.(AH/Sunnex)