The driver of the passenger van that crashed along the Central Luzon Link Expressway (CLLEX) in Tarlac City morning on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, tested positive for marijuana and shabu, police said.

Tarlac City Police Chief, PLtCol. Mercado Ranier, said the drug test results were released shortly after the incident.

“Kakalabas lang po ng resulta ng drug test ng ating driver. Lumalabas po sa resulta na positibo po siya… ibig sabihin po, gumagamit po siya ng marijuana at shabu,” he said.

According to passengers interviewed by police, the driver was speeding despite repeated pleas to slow down.

“Pinagsasabihan na daw po siya, kinakatok na siya kung puwede bagalan ang kanyang pagpapatakbo, pero mabilis pa rin po at hindi siya nakikinig,” Ranier added.

The van crashed into a metal fence before veering off the road, killing five of the 14 passengers and injuring nine others, including the driver.

The suspect is now in police custody and undergoing inquest proceedings. He may face charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, multiple serious physical injuries, and damage to property.

Because he also tested positive for illegal drugs, he will be charged with violating Republic Act 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act.

The driver is yet to release a statement.