Laoag: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Wednesday conducted random drug testing of bus drivers and conductors in public transport terminals here ahead of the expected influx of passengers during the Holy Week break.

According to Philippines News Agency, Maripe de Guzman, public information officer of PDEA Region 1 (Ilocos), stated that approximately 100 public utility drivers and conductors were targeted for random testing in various terminals throughout the day. “The surprise drug testing on bus drivers aims to ensure the safety of passengers,” De Guzman explained during an inspection and random drug testing at the Florida Bus station in the city.

De Guzman further noted that Laoag serves as the main transport hub for northbound passengers, which is why the operation was conducted there, with the Land Transportation Office leading and PDEA acting as a support unit. The operation, known as “Oplan Harabas,” was carried out under Republic Act 9165, the “Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002,” and Republic Act 10586, the “Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.”

The initiative is aimed at preventing road accidents caused by drivers under the influence of dangerous drugs. Drivers who test positive will undergo further validation to determine the level of their drug use. Those found with severe levels will be required to undergo a rehabilitation process, De Guzman stated. Additionally, drivers under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol will face confiscation of their driver’s license.

As of now, the PDEA has not released the results of the random drug testing. Meanwhile, as a security measure, law enforcers have deployed trained dogs to various public transport terminals in the area to detect the possible presence of contraband inside the luggage and packages of passengers.