TEN bus drivers and two conductors tested positive for illegal drug use after the surprise inspection conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in bus terminals in Metro Manila.
The drug test was conducted to ensure the safety of passengers during the All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days exodus.
PDEA Director Aaron Aquino said a total of 848 bus drivers and seven conductors underwent surprise drug testing since the PDEA conducted “Oplan Undaspot” at bus terminals since October 29.
Oplan Undaspot is a surprise mandatory drug testing for all bus drivers. It also involves the conduct of K9 sweeping in different terminals and ports nationwide to ensure the safety of passengers who will be traveling to their respective provinces to visit their departed loved ones.
The PDEA tapped the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) for the inspection of bus units.
Part of the activity is the distribution of information, education and communications materials on drug prevention to travelers.
Aquino said he ordered the mandatory drug testing of drivers due to the increasing number of bus drivers and conductors arrested for illegal drug use.
“This is our way of extending our concern to the Filipino people as a government entity, while ensuring a safe and harmless travel,” he said.
“The use of illegal drugs in transportation industry is very rampant even in ordinary hours, making the riding public prone to accidents. These drivers should face the consequences of using illegal drugs so as not to compromise the safety of passengers,” he added.
The drivers who tested positive for illegal drug use will undergo rehabilitation process and will not be allowed to work pending the confiscation of their licenses. (SunStar Philippines)