The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) conducted yesterday simultaneous surprise drug tests to bus drivers in the bus terminals in Pasay City and Quezon City while drug-sniffing dogs searched the area to ensure the safety of millions of travelers expected to troop to the provinces for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
PDEA Director General Aaron N. Aquino explained that OPLAN “UNDASPOT” has been enforced in coordination with Land Transportation Office (LTO) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
Aside from ensuring the safety of the passengers, Aquino said the inspection was done to prevent illegal drug traffickers from taking advantage of the mammoth crowd and busy operations in these terminals in carrying out their illicit trade.
On Monday, representatives from PDEA, LTO and LTFRB proceeded to JAC Liner Bus Terminal, Philtranco in Pasay City; and Partas Bus Terminal, Five Star Bus Terminal in Cubao, Quezon City, to conduct surprise mandatory drug tests and K9 sweeping operations.
Aquino said long trips, particularly by provincial drivers, may be detrimental to the safety of the passengers due to fatigue.
“Thus, the possibility that the bus drivers use illegal drugs to counter fatigue and keep them alert cannot be discounted,” Aquino said.
“Any driver who refuses to undergo the mandatory drug test will be immediately endorsed to LTO for proper action,” he added. (Chito Chavez)
