84 PUV drivers, 2 conductors tested positive for drug use —PDEA

More than 80 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and two conductors tested positive for illegal drug use during a surprise nationwide drug screening for the Holy Week, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

The PDEA said the drug test was conducted on Wednesday, April 16, in all major land terminals in the country as part of Oplan: Harabas. Of the 3,270 individuals that underwent the drug screening, 84 drivers yielded positive results.

Of them, 13 were bus drivers, one was a mini-bus driver, 19 were jeepney drivers, 47 were tricycle drivers, one was taxi driver, two were motorcycle taxi riders, and 11 were UV van drivers. Two conductors likewise tested positive.

"In light of the heavy influx of Holy Week travelers eager to come home and be with their families, PDEA implemented these drug tests to ensure the safety of the riding public," said PDEA Director General Isagani Nerez.

Drivers who tested positive for drug use were not allowed to drive. Their licenses were temporarily confiscated pending the results of the confirmatory tests and issuance of clearance by PDEA.

They will also undergo the rehabilitation process and intervention programs provided by the local government before reclaiming their licenses.

Meanwhile, PDEA also conducted surprise K9 sweeping operations or using Narcotics Detection Dogs (NDDs) to detect concealed illegal drugs carried by passengers inside the premises of public transport terminals.

The PDEA implemented Oplan: Harabas in accordance to the provisions of RA 10586, or the "Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013", or "An Act Penalizing Persons Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, Dangerous Drugs, and Similar Substances, and for Other Purposes" aimed to curb road accidents caused by drivers under the influence of illegal drugs.—Sundy Locus/AOL, GMA Integrated News