MANILA – Malacañang agrees with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) proposal for a regular and mandatory drug testing for all public utility vehicles (PUV) drivers.
According to Presidential Communications Office’s Undersecretary Claire Castro, it is vital for the PUV drivers to undergo drug test to ensure road safety in light of recent numerous road accidents.
She told reporters in a press briefing at Malacañang Palace: “Tandaan po natin, ang inaalagaan po dito yung safety ng commuters, passengers, ng mga tao na gumagamit po ng kalsada, including na rin po ‘yung mga driver,” she added.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon on Monday announced that all PUV drivers will be required to undergo drug test every six months, as part of the stricter nationwide road safety plan.
Castro, however, hoped that the new policy would not be seen as a “money-making strategy.”
“Hindi po ito basta-basta maaaring sabihin na huwag na lang gawin kung ito naman po ay makakasama sa safety,” Castro said.
“Huwag naman po natin agad husgahan na ito ay isang money-making device or strategy,” she added.
On Monday, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. vowed to implement reforms in the country’s transport systems, in light of recent tragic vehicular accidents. /PN
