PDEA: Some PUV drivers tested positive for drugs amid Holy Week exodus

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Wednesday said some public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers tested positive for illegal drugs in surprise screenings across the country amid the Holy Week exodus.

In Western Visayas, PDEA said that on the first day of Oplan Harabas, 822 drivers underwent random drug testing. Six of them yielded positive results.

On Holy Wednesday, 607 more drivers were tested and two taxi drivers initially tested positive for methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu.

They will undergo confirmatory testing and appropriate legal proceedings, according to PDEA.

In Bicol, PDEA said 172 PUV drivers and conductors underwent surprise drug testing. Three drivers including a bus driver and two tricycle drivers initially tested positive for shabu.

In Eastern Visayas, PDEA said 152 drivers and conductors were tested. Of these, three drivers tested positive for illegal drugs.

The individuals who tested positive were given initial counseling and referred to local health offices for further intervention, including possible treatment and rehabilitation.

In Zamboanga Peninsula, authorities conducted large-scale drug testing covering 1,286 drivers across multiple cities and towns. A total of 19 individuals also tested positive.

According to PDEA, those who will be confirmed positive will be referred to local anti-drug abuse councils for intervention and monitoring.

The Land Transportation Office may impose administrative sanctions such as suspension or revocation of driver’s licenses, PDEA added. —KG, GMA News