The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency on Monday conducted simultaneous surprise mandatory drug tests to bus drivers and conductors, and K9 sweeping in bus terminals, airports and seaports throughout the country to to help ensure the safety of travelers and the roads during the Holy Week.
Director General Aaron Aquino said the agency implemented Oplan “Huli Week” in coordination with other government agencies as part of PDEA’s holistic approach to bring down the demand for illegal drugs, and promote drug-free workplaces, harm-reduction and reformation.
“We are also doing this to curb incidents of vehicular accidents caused by drugged drivers and make the roads safer, especially this Lenten season’s travel rush,” he said.
On Monday, PDEA, along with the Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and Philippine National Police, proceeded to the bus terminals of Five Star Inc., DLTB Inc., Philtranco Bus Line and JAM Bus Line, all in Pasay City; and Quezon City’s Araneta Center bus port, Araneta Center bus terminal, and the terminals of Bicol Isarog, Raymond Bus Line Inc., Dela Rosa Bus Inc., Partas Bus Inc., Five Star Bus Inc., ES Transport Inc., Florida Bus Lune, JAC Bus Inc., Victory Liner Inc., Dagupan Bus Inc., DLTB Ibc., and JAM Bus Inc. and conducted surprise mandatory drug test to drivers and conductors.
PDEA, with the assistance of Manila International Airport Authority and Philippine Ports Authority, also swept high-risk airports and major seaports for illegal drugs using K9 dogs.
“Any driver who refuses to undergo the mandatory drug test will be reported to the Land Transportation Office. To those tested positive for drug use, their driver’s licenses will be withheld pending the issuance of clearance by the PDEA. They must undergo the rehabilitation process before reclaiming their licenses,” Aquino warned.
He said the agency’s preventive education and community involvement service were also present to perform on-site counseling, and help facilitate the rehabilitative treatment of drivers found positive for illegal drugs, in coordination with the Department of Health.
“There is a prevailing practice of illegal drug use among provincial bus drivers because of the nature of their work. They use dangerous drugs to stay awake, or counter fatigue, especially those driving the long haul or overnight,” he said.
“While the rest of the nation observe Holy Week, Oplan: Huli Week is our humble contribution in keeping our traveling kababayans and the roads safer during these solemn times,” he added.