Up to 400 bus drivers and conductors in the Davao Region underwent a surprise drug test at a terminal in Davao City two days ahead of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

The drug test was part of ‘Oplan Harabas’ implemented by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in coordination with other agencies like the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

“Nationwide po ito simultaneous drug test… here in Davao Region, 100 tests ang in-allot natin; for Davao City, 150 tests; for Tagum, may 150 tests also,” said Yuri Lim, spokesperson of LTO-11.

Meanwhile, 100 drivers and conductors of buses and vans underwent the test in General Santos City.

In Koronadal City, 200 PUV drivers and conductors underwent the drug test.

If a driver tests positive, he will not be allowed to travel pending confirmatory test.

“Kung naay mag-positive sa screening test, ang license i-confiscate ng LTO, so i-endorse nato na ang mga nag-positive sa ilang mga respective ADAC (Anti-Drug Abuse Council) for intervention program,” said Noli Dimaandal, spokesperson of PDEA-11.

One of those who underwent the test at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal was Ronald Dandan, a bus driver for 23 years.

He said he keeps in mind that he is transporting human lives, which is why he always makes sure he drives safely.

These days, he drives to Mati, Davao Oriental from Davao City and vice versa.

“Para sa safety sa atong nga pasahero… ang uban man gud, nagsulay og drugs unya wa kabalo low bat na diay, mo-expire ang drugs, unya modasmag ang sakyanan sa ubang kasugat, madamay tong uban nga nagtinarong byahe,” he said.

He is confident his test would turn out negative.

Loyda Embalsado, one of the passengers that day, said safety is of paramount importance to her as a traveler.

“Importante gyud sa amoa ang seguridad nga wala gyud nagagamit ang driver kay naa siya presence of mind sa pag-drive niya unya daghang kinabuhi ang nakasalalay sa iyaha,” she said.