LTFRB taking action vs. drivers using drugs

Following a massive nationwide screening led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is taking action against bus operators whose drivers tested positive for illegal drugs.

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In a released statement, the LTFRB said show-cause orders will be issued to these operators, demanding they explain why no sanctions should be imposed on them for employing drivers who pose a threat to public safety.

The testing was conducted under “Oplan: Harabas”, a coordinated anti-drug operation spearheaded by the PDEA last April 16, in time for Holy Week.

Nationally, a total of 3,270 individuals were tested, with 96 yielding positive results --94 of them drivers and two conductors. These findings raised alarm across the transport sector.

According to the LTFRB, 13 of those who tested positive were bus drivers, one was a mini-bus driver, 47 were tricycle drivers, 19 jeepney drivers, 11 UV Express drivers, two motorcycle taxi riders, and one taxi driver.

The two conductors who also tested positive were assigned to the buses.

LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz III called the results “deeply troubling,” emphasizing the grave risk posed to commuters by drug-impaired drivers.

"It is unacceptable and deeply troubling that individuals entrusted with the safety of passengers are found to be operating vehicles under the influence of prohibited substances," said Guadiz.