ILOILO City – One person was found positive for drug use after the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 6 and Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 6 conducted surprise drug tests in transport terminals and airport in the city and province of Iloilo yesterday, October 4.
The specimen however will undergo a confirmatory test to verify the initial positive result.
PDEA data showed that as part of the “Oplan Harabas”, subjected to unexpected drug tests were a total of 236 drivers, 99 conductors and two dispatchers from the following:
* Ceres Terminal in Barangay Camalig, Jaro district;
* Tagbak Terminal in Barangay Tagbak, Jaro;
* Robinsons Pavia and Ungka terminals in Barangay Ungka II, Pavia, Iloilo;
* Mohon Terminal in Arevalo district;
* Aleosan Transport Terminal in Mandurriao district; and
* Iloilo Airport in Cabatuan, Iloilo.
Melvin Suarez Estoque, acting director of the PDEA-6, said the implementation of “Oplan Harabas” is part of the agency’s strategy to reduce drug demand, promote drug-free workplaces, and improve road safety.
This initiative also aims to reduce vehicular accidents caused by drivers under the influence of illegal drugs, resulting to safer roads for commuters, Estoque said.
He added that drivers who test positive for illegal drugs use will not be allowed to continue their trip, and the LTO will confiscate their licenses.
“Oplan Harabas” is being implemented in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act 9165 (RA), or the Comprehensive Dangerous Act of 2002, and RA 10586, or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, as well as Dangerous Drugs Board Regulation No. 2 Series of 2004.
Aside from drug testing, PDEA-6 distributed drug preventive information and education and communication materials to commuters to raise awareness on the ill effects of illegal drugs./PN
