SOME 100 bus drivers, bus conductors, van and taxi drivers in Agora Terminal, this city, have undergone surprise drug testing on Monday, October 28, as the Philippine Drug Enforcement (PDEA) launched “Oplan Undaspot” for the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day this weekend.
Some 40 bus drivers, 42 employees of various bus companies, 5 van drivers, and 13 taxi drivers all tested negative for illegal drugs use, the PDEA-Northern Mindanao said.
PDEA assistant provincial officer Agent Expedito Cardona said the surprise drug test was done to ensure that bus drivers are fit to travel when an influx of passengers are expected during the long weekend.
"This is a nationwide joint operation to ensure the safety of the passenger while travelling. We also received reports nga nakiglambigit gihapon ang atong mga drivers sa illegal drugs, so we have to make sure they are and will remain drug-free," Cardona said.
If a driver tested positive for drug use, Cardona said the Land Transportation Office (LTO) will confiscate their licenses and will be barred from travelling.
Only when they complete a drug rehabilitation program will they be allowed to drive again, Cardona added.
The Oplan Undaspot also aims to prevent illegal drug traffickers in taking advantage of the influx of people and busy operations in the terminals to transport illegal drugs.
PDEA has tapped the Land Transportation Office and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to ensure proper action will be imposed for the drivers who tested positive.