Photo courtesy: LTO Strategic Communications
FOLLOWING the tragic multiple-vehicle collision at the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) toll plaza that claimed at least 10 lives, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced on Friday, May 9, that two Solid North bus drivers tested positive for illegal drugs.
While the driver directly involved in the SCTEX crash tested negative for drugs according to police reports, the DOTr revealed that mandatory drug testing conducted by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) revealed positive results for two other Solid North Bus Inc. drivers. These drivers will now undergo confirmatory tests.
The LTO is simultaneously conducting roadworthiness inspections of Solid North’s bus fleet. To date, 46 out of 276 units have passed inspection, with the process ongoing.
Initial reports suggest the SCTEX accident occurred when the bus driver fell asleep at the wheel. Although the driver tested negative for drugs, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) noted he was taking maintenance medication, which may have contributed to drowsiness.
This incident, along with a separate accident where a sports utility vehicle crashed into the Ninoy Aquino International Airport entrance, resulting in two fatalities, has sparked widespread concern over road safety in the Philippines. Both accidents tragically involved children among the victims.
In response to the escalating number of deadly crashes, the DOTr has implemented several new measures, including mandatory drug testing for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers every 90 days and a reduction in maximum driving hours from six to four hours.
Trips exceeding four hours will now require a reliever driver. The DOTr is also pursuing stricter regulations for driver’s license issuance. These measures aim to improve road safety and prevent future tragedies. The ongoing investigations into both accidents are expected to shed further light on the contributing factors and inform future safety regulations.
