Dagupan city: The Land Transportation Office in Ilocos Region (LTO-1) conducted a surprise random drug test on Monday for 100 public transport drivers at a major bus terminal in Dagupan City.
According to Philippines News Agency, LTO-1 Director Glorioso Daniel Martinez revealed that one driver tested positive, but the result requires confirmation from the Department of Health, as medication might have influenced it. The activity was held in partnership with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Philippine National Police, and Department of Health Treatment and Rehabilitation Center as part of the agency's Oplan Pasko 2025. This initiative aims to enhance commuter safety during the holiday season.
The operation targeted drivers of public utility buses (PUBs), public utility vehicles (PUVs), vans, modern jeepneys, and tricycles, including conductors. It was conducted under Section 15 of Republic Act 10586, known as the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013. The law mandates the LTO to perform random terminal inspections and drug tests to deter impaired driving and improve safety. Drivers who refuse testing or test positive face license confiscation and potential revocation upon conviction.
"If upon confirmation, the driver tests positive for illegal drugs, he will face charges and revocation of his driver's license," stated Martinez. The same activity will also be implemented in other areas of the Ilocos Region.
With the anticipated holiday surge, public transport drivers are required to be fit to operate vehicles. These random drug tests are part of LTO-1's commitment to protect riders and prevent accidents. Meanwhile, Martinez mentioned that they are also conducting terminal inspections and will set up assistance desks in terminals throughout the region.
He added that they will monitor drivers committing serious violations, such as reckless driving and colorum operations, which involve running without proper permits. "Road safety is a shared responsibility; we must ensure the safety of the commuters," he emphasized, advising commuters not to support or patronize colorum vehicles.
