NINETEEN individuals tested positive for the use of dangerous drugs during the simultaneous implementation of Oplan Harabas 2026 across major transport terminals on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, in Zamboanga Peninsula.
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 9, in coordination with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) 9, Philippine National Police (PNP), and Local Government Units, implemented Oplan Harabas 2026 to ensure safe and drug-free traveling during the Holy Week.
The PDEA 9 said the drug testing operations were conducted in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur; Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay; Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte; and Zamboanga City, targeting public utility drivers to safeguard passengers.
“A total of 1,286 individuals composed of bus, van, tricycle, taxi, and jeepney drivers were subjected to drug testing across the region,” said Pdea 9.
“Nineteen individuals tested positive for the use of dangerous drugs,” PDEA 9 added.
Individuals who tested positive will be referred to their respective Village Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (Vadacs) for intervention, rehabilitation, and monitoring programs.
To strengthen security, PDEA 9 said K9 inspections were conducted in transport terminals to prevent the transport of illegal drugs. Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials were distributed to drivers and passengers to raise awareness on substance abuse.
PDEA 9 said the proactive measure ensures the safety of commuters during the Holy Week while reinforcing the mandate of the agency to prevent the movement of illegal drugs within the transportation sector.
The agency said the successful implementation of Oplan Harabas 2026 highlights the collaboration among government agencies in keeping roads safe and maintaining drug-free communities during peak travel periods.
PDEA 9 assured the public that similar operations will continue to ensure public transport drivers remain drug-free throughout the Lenten season. (SunStar Zamboanga)