A TOTAL of 157 drivers of passenger jeepneys, taxis, delivery trucks, utility vans, and tricycles in Western Visayas tested negative for illegal drug use during the simultaneous random drug test led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) through the nationwide implementation of Oplan Harabas Friday, March 29.

The test was in coordination with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), local government units, and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Oplan Harabas aims to thwart illegal drugs from being a cause of road accidents.

Dubbed “Drug test muna bago pasada,” the objective of Oplan Harabas is to ensure that drivers are not under the influence of any substance particularly illegal drugs before they hit the road, PDEA 6 spokesperson David Garcia said.

“Harabas” in Bisaya term means “paspas,” he said.

Of the total number, 82 drivers were from Iloilo City and 75 were from Bacolod City. They all submitted their urine samples for the test.

Of the 75 Bacolod drivers, 24 were jeepney drivers, 12 were utility van drivers, 20 were taxi drivers, and 19 were tricycle drivers.

The areas of Bacolod north and south terminals, and Daalco Waiting Station were venues for the test.

Garcia said the idea came after reports reached their office that some drivers especially those who are traveling long distance allegedly use substance to keep them awake.

Based on the data of traffic accidents, there was an increase of 400 percent in accidents in 2014 compared to 2001 and some of which are due to mechanical engine trouble and human error brought by intake of substances including illegal drugs, Garcia said.

This is the first implementation nationwide to ensure road safety, Garcia said.

He is hoping that it will continue in the coming years.

Garcia said they decided to do the test in two major cities in Western Visayas since they cannot cover all areas in the region in one day.

We will conduct another test anytime soon to subject other drivers, he added.