A jeepney driver in La Union tested positive for illegal drug use during a surprise screening of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and conductors in the Ilocos Region on Thursday, Oct. 29.
The screening covered 111 transport workers as authorities intensified road safety measures ahead of Undas.
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 1 said the driver yielded a positive result during the initial screening conducted under Oplan Harabas, an anti-drug operation aimed at preventing drug-impaired driving among public transport workers.
According to PDEA, the driver was referred to the Department of Health Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (DOH-TRC) in La Union for a drug dependency examination and confirmatory testing.
The operation was led by PDEA Region 1 Director Julius M. Paderes in coordination with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Philippine National Police-La Union Police Provincial Office, DOH-TRC La Union, and Regional Highway Patrol Unit 1.
Aside from drug testing, PDEA K-9 units inspected bus terminals, cargo bays, and baggage areas for illegal drugs and other contraband.
Authorities also distributed information and educational materials to passengers and transport workers to promote drug-free and responsible driving.
PDEA said the operation was part of heightened security and safety measures to protect commuters traveling during the Undas holidays.