ILOILO City – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region 6 (PDEA-6), in coordination with local law enforcement units, conducted on Wednesday, October 29, simultaneous operations across Western Visayas under its “Oplan Harabas 2025” that aims to ensure safe and drug-free travel ahead of Undas (All Saints’ and All Souls’ days).
A total of 1,013 transport personnel were subjected to a surprise drug test, comprising of 876 drivers, 135 conductors, and two dispatchers from various terminals in Iloilo, Aklan, Antique, and Capiz. Of these, six tested positive for illegal drug use, while the rest yielded negative results.
PDEA-6 said those who failed the test were referred for confirmatory testing and their licenses were confiscated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
Also carried out were random K9 sweeping operations in major terminals and transport hubs.
Ralph Rommel D. Torres, director of PDEA-6, emphasized that “Oplan Harabas” aims to keep roads and transport terminals drug-free, ensuring the safety of commuters during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) has started implementing a comprehensive security and public safety coverage through the Enhance Managing Police Operations to ensure the safe, orderly, and peaceful observance of Undas.
More than 4,280 police personnel, augmented by force multipliers and local volunteers, were deployed throughout the region.
PRO-6 has maximized police visibility in cemeteries, transport terminals, tourist destinations, and other public convergence areas to prevent crimes and maintain peace and order.
Police assistance desks were also established in public and private cemeteries to complement the established motorist assistance hubs along major highways to address public concerns and provide immediate assistance when needed.
PRO-6 director Brigadier General Josefino Ligan reminded the public to remain vigilant and cooperative with authorities.
“We encourage everyone to follow local regulations, avoid bringing prohibited items such as firearms, bladed weapons, alcoholic beverages, loud sound systems, and gambling paraphernalia, and to observe proper waste disposal while visiting their departed loved ones,” he said./PN
