Iloilo City: Four public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers from this city tested positive for illegal drug use during the surprise drug testing operation spearheaded by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) 6 (Western Visayas) on Tuesday. The initiative was part of "Oplan Harabas," which tested 156 PUV drivers at the Ceres Terminal in Barangay Tagbak, Jaro and the Mohon transport terminal in Arevalo District.

According to Philippine News Agency, the operation aims to reduce road crashes linked to drivers under the influence of illegal drugs, as emphasized by LTO-6 Director Gaudioso Geduspan II. He highlighted that despite ongoing enforcement efforts, the Philippines continues to experience an annual average of 12,000 road crash fatalities, with about 500 incidents occurring in Western Visayas.

The drivers who tested positive included a taxi driver, a tricycle driver, and two drivers of a modernized jeepney. They are now required to undergo confirmatory testing with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

"Oplan Harabas" is part of the broader "Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa and Summer Vacation 2025" initiative by the Department of Transportation, aimed at safeguarding the commuting public during peak travel periods.

LTO-6 Assistant Director Jeck Conlu reiterated the agency's commitment to maintaining a drug-free transport system and enhancing road safety across the region. He stated, "We would like to ensure the compliance of the public transport to safety standards for the welfare of the riding public."

The implementation of Oplan Harabas was carried out in coordination with PDEA, the Philippine National Police, Department of Health, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, and the Iloilo City Government.