Quezon City: The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Wednesday conducted mandatory drug testing on 740 drivers and conductors of the Solid North Transit in its terminal in Cubao, Quezon City. This initiative aims to ensure the bus company’s compliance with road safety standards following the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) collision in Tarlac City on May 1 that resulted in 10 fatalities.
According to Philippines News Agency, LTO Chief, Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II stated that the action is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos’ directive to ensure road safety for all users. ‘The instruction of (Transportation) Secretary Vince (Dizon) is clear, we have to make sure that all their drivers and conductors are drug-free before they are allowed to operate,’ Mendoza emphasized.
Refusal to undergo drug tests is a ground for LTO action, such as license suspension or revocation, as driving a public utility vehicle (PUV) is considered a privilege granted by the government. The license of the driver involved in the fatal SCTEX collision was permanently revoked after their refusal to undergo a drug test. Mendoza stressed the government’s responsibility in ensuring that all PUV drivers are ‘mentally and physically prepared’ for their duties.
Mendoza noted that while efforts have been made to promote road safety, including swift action against reckless drivers and launching road safety campaigns, recent road crashes have highlighted the need for more preventive measures. In addition to drug testing, all Solid North Transit buses will undergo mandatory roadworthiness tests.
The LTO’s road safety crackdown will extend beyond Solid North Transit. ‘We understand the concerns of our kababayan (compatriots) on this matter, that is why the mass drug testing and mass inspection of buses of the Solid North will be replicated to other companies and operators, across the country,’ Mendoza assured. He has directed all LTO regional directors to collaborate with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for the implementation of surprise, random, and mandatory drug testing for all PUV drivers, from motorcycle taxi riders to bus and truck drivers.
