SURPRISE drug tests on bus drivers, conductors, and K9 sweeping in bus terminals, airports, and seaports nationwide.
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), together with its partner government agencies, conducted simultaneous surprise mandatory drug test to bus drivers and conductors, and K9 sweeping in bus terminal, airports and seaports throughout the country to help safeguard travelers during the Lenten Season.
PDEA Director General Wilkins M. Villanueva said the agency implements the 2022 iteration of OPLAN: “HARABAS” today, (Friday, April 8, 2022) as part of the agency’s holistic approach in reducing the demand for illegal drugs, promoting drug-free workplaces, and reformation.
OPLAN: “HARABAS” is a simultaneous surprise mandatory drug testing to all drivers in public terminals nationwide aimed to ensure the safety of passengers from drugged drivers and at the same time promote a drug-free public transport system all over the country.
“Apart from preventing the trafficking of illegal drugs via public transport, we are also doing this to curb incidents of vehicular accidents caused by drivers under the influence of drugs, and make the roads safer for commuters during the holiday rush,” Villanueva added.
PDEA, in collaboration with the Land Transportation and Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine National Police (PNP) and local government units (LGUs), proceeded to the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) and SM Mall Of Asia (MOA) transport terminal, and conducted drug tests to bus drivers and conductors.
PDEA, with the assistance of Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), also swept the country’s high-risk airports and seaports for dangerous drugs using K9s. Various bus and van terminals were also subjected to K9 sweeping to prevent the transportation of illegal drugs using these facilities.
“Drivers who will be tested positive for illegal drugs will not be allowed to travel, and their licenses will be confiscated by the LTO. These erring drivers must undergo the rehabilitation process before their licenses are returned,” Villanueva noted.
