One hundred fifty nine public utility bus drivers tested negative for illegal drugs while a motorcyclist tested positive in a random drug test at the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) on Wednesday, according to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
The DOTr, in a statement said that the motorcyclist voluntarily submitted to a drug test amidst its random testing at the PITX, in line with its preparation for the Undas break.
The DOTr said the Land Transportation Office (LTO) confiscated the license of the driver while awaiting the results of the confirmatory test of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the license of the motorcyclist will be automatically canceled if he tests positive again in the PDEA confirmatory test.
‘Random drug testing to be policy’
According to Lopez, the random drug testing conducted on Wednesday is aimed at ensuring the security and safety of ‘Undas’ season passengers.
Lopez said the DOTr will implement the random drug testing as a policy in various places, not only during Holy Week, Undas, and Christmas.’This random drug testing is important for long haul trips like those to Naga and other provinces. It is also important for drivers to have a relief partner so they can rest after long drives,’ said. Lopez.
Lopez likewise ordered the LTFRB, LTO, and Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation to apprehend bus drivers who deviate from the PITX lane to avoid random drug testing.