Iloilo: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Western Visayas (PDEA-6) on Monday launched Oplan Harabas, a surprise drug testing initiative for drivers and conductors, across various terminals in the region to ensure a safe and drug-free travel experience this Holy Week.

According to Philippines News Agency, PDEA-6 Information Officer Graciela Tanaleon stated that Oplan Harabas is part of the campaign to "reduce drug demand and enhance road safety." The surprise drug testing and K9 sweeping inspections were conducted simultaneously in six transport terminals, including the Culasi Ceres Terminal, Tibiao TODA (Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association) Terminal, and the San Jose de Buenavista Terminal in Antique; Pueblo de Panay Integrated Transport Terminal in Capiz; Citi Mall Terminal in Kalibo, Aklan; and the Sara Transport Terminal in Iloilo.

Out of the 761 drivers and 61 conductors who underwent the drug tests, five tested positive for shabu and one for marijuana. The Culasi Ceres Terminal and Pueblo de Panay Integrated Transport Terminal each yielded two positive results, with one each from Citi Mall Terminal and San Jose de Buenavista Terminal.

Tanaleon mentioned that those who tested positive, including one jeepney driver and five tricycle drivers, will undergo confirmatory testing, with their licenses immediately confiscated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). The result of the confirmatory test is expected within the next 24 hours.

Tanaleon further emphasized that Oplan Harabas aims not only to penalize but also to warn drivers that the conduct of surprise drug tests will continue, with penalties from the PDEA and other government agencies, such as the LTO, to follow.