MANILA, Philippines — A bus driver failed a drug test conducted by anti-narcotics and transport officials at bus terminals in Quezon City yesterday.
Officials from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Land Transportation Office and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) conducted a surprise inspection of bus terminals as Filipinos prepared to travel and visit cemeteries for “Undas” or All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days on Nov. 1 and 2.
A total of 160 bus drivers were tested for drug use as PDEA enforced Oplan Undaspot. The driver who failed the test will be subjected to a confirmatory exam.
PDEA chief Aaron Aquino said “Undaspot” is to prevent illegal drug traffickers from taking advantage of the influx of people at bus terminals to transport illegal drugs.
LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra said the drug testing would help ensure the safety of passengers.
A total of 1,072 buses have been issued a special permit by the LTFRB to travel to and from Metro Manila to the provinces from today until Nov. 5.
Regional offices have also issued special permits to more or less 800 buses.