Cubao: Several government officials conducted inspections and random drug tests in numerous terminals in Cubao, Quezon City as part of the government’s efforts to secure public transportation ahead of the expected influx of passengers during the holiday break. The initiative aims to prioritize passenger convenience and safety, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos’ directive.

According to Philippines News Agency, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chair Romando ‘Don’ Artes highlighted that the multi-agency inspection was conducted to ensure the safe, orderly, and convenient movement of commuters and to prevent untoward incidents at bus terminals during the holiday rush. The MMDA was joined by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

During the inspection, DOTr Undersecretary for Road Transport and Non-Infrastructure Ramon Reyes stated that random drug testing for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers was conducted to ensure the safety of commuters. “We want to ensure bus drivers have no trace of drug use and are fit and in good condition before operating public utility buses for long-distance travel,” Reyes said.

Passenger traffic at PUV terminals has increased, and the MMDA expects the influx to rise beginning this weekend. The MMDA has ordered full deployment of personnel to manage and address the expected increase in vehicular traffic on major roads in Metro Manila. K-9 teams have also been deployed to assist with the detection of illegal drugs and safety checks.

The MMDA’s latest vehicular count indicates that around 437,000 vehicles traverse the Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue daily.