Poe tells LTFRB, LTO to conduct regular random drug test on PUV drivers
Sen. Grace L. Poe (Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau)
MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) should conduct random drug tests on drivers nationwide not just during holidays, according to Sen. Grace Poe.
During the joint hearing of Senate committees on public services, public works, and finance on Thursday, Poe asked the LTFRB if they conduct regular random drug tests on drivers to ensure commuters’ safety.
“Sorry your honor, we do not do random drug tests, we only collaborate with other government agencies,” LTFRB executive director Atty. Robert Peig answered.
READ: LTO eyes random bus inspections, driver drug tests for Holy Week exodus
Poe, who heads the panel on public services, then questioned why they are not enforcing this, to which Peig answered that they “coordinate with other agencies” when it comes to the implementation of surprise drug tests.
LTO executive director Atty. Greg Pua Jr. said they are coordinating with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and transport leaders in conducting drug tests.
“We did this in Davao to around 400 po yung drivers, sometime in January,” Pua revealed.
But Poe said this should be regular, especially this coming Holy Week.
“Implementing na po nag-co-conduct na po since last week, mag procure din po kami ng sariling drug testing kit para po hindi kami nakadepende sa PDEA,” Pua told the senator.
(We have already implemented this since last week. We will procure our drug testing kit so we will not depend on PDEA.).
“Paki-submit sa committee kung maraming nahuli,” Poe answered.
(Please submit before the committee how many are caught using illegal drugs.)
Earlier Thursday, the LTO released a statement baring its plans to conduct “random and surprise” inspections to ensure buses’ road worthiness as well as drug tests to ensure drivers’ mental and physical readiness in preparation for the Holy Week exodus.
He further said LTO personnel will be present not only in bus terminals and major thoroughfares but also on roads leading to seaports and airports across the country.
Mendoza added that he ordered the agency to assist local government units in their security plans for the holidays.
