PDEA: 61 PUV drivers, conductors tested positive for illegal drugs ahead of Holy Week

A total of 61 public utility vehicle drivers, conductors, and dispatchers tested positive for illegal drugs ahead of Holy Week, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Saturday.

The PDEA said at least 4,210 individuals underwent screening during the nationwide implementation of the agency’s Oplan Harabas on Friday in light of the expected influx of Holy Week travelers.

The agency said the drug tests were conducted in major bus, jeepney, tricycle, and public utility vehicle (PUV) terminals nationwide.

A total of 27 tricycle drivers, 10 jeepney drivers, 11 bus drivers, seven van drivers, five conductors, and one dispatcher tested positive for the use of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, and marijuana.

“Those drivers [who] tested positive for drug use upon confirmatory test will not be allowed to travel and have their licenses confiscated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO),” the PDEA said in a statement.

“They must undergo appropriate intervention and reformation programs to be provided by their respective local Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs) before reclaiming their licenses,” it added.

The PDEA also conducted K9 sweeping operations in public transport terminals, including the country’s high-risk airports and seaports, to detect illegal drugs carried by passengers. —VBL, GMA News