More than 100 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers in Cagayan de Oro City underwent a surprise drug test during “Oplan Harabas” at a major terminal in the city on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, as part of heightened safety measures for Holy Week.

The drug test was carried out by personnel of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) in Northern Mindanao.

Authorities said the drug test aims to ensure that drivers are roadworthy and that commuters are safe during the expected surge of passengers during Holy Week.

Drivers who test positive for illegal drug use will have their licenses confiscated immediately and will undergo a confirmatory test. If the result remains positive, the LTO will proceed with the revocation of their driver’s license.

“Pag nakahatag og specimen ang atong driver kung nagpositive siya muhear gyud siya og intervention community-based o facility based ug matod pa sa LTO kuhaon gyud ang iyang driver’s license ug ma-revoke,” PDEA-10 Assistant Regional Director, Mary Leslie Sharon Maquilang, said.

“Meron rin kaming intervention, the intervention is he has to go to the brgy and dun siya magsabi sa brgy na nagpositive siya gagawan ng intervention ng brgy,” LTO-10 Director, Nelson Manaloto, added.

LTFRB-10 personnel also inspected bus companies to ensure compliance with approved routes, franchises, and the roadworthiness of their units.

“Musunod lang gyud sila sa ilang ruta gyud so kung naay outside nga route nga walang kaukulang mga dokumento nga naifile sa ating opisina meron ho yan kaukulang penalties,” LTFRB-10 Director, Aljo Bendijo, said.

Some drivers expressed support for the drug test, saying it helps prevent accidents and ensures the safety of both drivers and passengers.

“Importante gihapon kayo para makalikay ta sa mga disgrasya bitaw kay dili man gyud nato na malikayan basin naa’y nagagamit para safety ang driver ug ang pasahero,” a taxi driver, Juvy Dumaog, said.

Authorities are awaiting the results of the drug tests and assured that those who test positive will be barred from operating to prevent risks to the public.