Transport groups back drug testing for drivers (8:32 a.m.)

SEVERAL transport groups supported the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency's (PDEA) move to subject drivers of public utility vehicles (PUVs) to drug testing.

The Alliance of Concerned Transport Organization (Acto), Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Associations of the Philippines (Fejodap), and Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston) are supportive of the move, saying this is to ensure that PUV drivers are not taking the illegal substance while on the job.

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Efren de Luna of Acto said aside from PUV drivers, private vehicle drivers should also undergo drug testing, while Zenaida Maranan of Fejodap recommended that drivers be subjected to blood testing.

Piston secretary-general George San Mateo said the government should provide drivers an alternative to illegal substances to ward off drowsiness.

Earlier, the Southern Luzon Bus Operators Association (Soluboa) and Integrated Metropolitan Bus Operators Association (Imboa) also backed PDEA's move. (Sunnex)