LTFRB: Bus operators of drivers who tested positive for drugs face show cause orders

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Saturday said it would issue show cause orders to bus operators whose drivers tested positive for illegal drug use during Holy Week 2025.

"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 LTFRB Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III.

"The LTFRB will be issuing show-cause orders to the bus operators whose drivers were among those who tested positive. They will be required to explain why no sanction should be imposed upon them for employing drivers who pose a clear risk to public safety," said Guadiz.

Of the 3,270 individuals tested during the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency's (PDEA) Oplan: Harabas nationwide drug screening, 84 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers were found positive for prohibited drugs.

The PDEA activity was conducted on Holy Wednesday, April 16, at major land transport terminals across the country.

Broken down, those who tested positive were 13 bus drivers, a mini-bus driver, 19 jeepney drivers, 47 tricycle drivers, a taxi driver, two motorcycle taxi riders, and 11 UV Express drivers.

Two conductors also tested positive for illegal drug use.

The PDEA earlier said 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.

Meanwhile, the LTFRB reminded operators that they are duty-bound to ensure that their drivers are fit to operate public transport vehicles, both physically and mentally.

Failure to comply with these responsibilities may result in penalties, including possible suspension or cancellation of their franchises, according to the public land transport regulator.

The agency added that it continues to work closely with the PDEA and other agencies to keep the country's roads safe and free from drug-impaired drivers. — VDV, GMA Integrated News