The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Saturday announced that it will issue show-cause orders to bus operators whose drivers tested positive for illegal drug use during a nationwide drug screening conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

The drug tests, held on 16 April under “Oplan: Harabas,” covered major land transport terminals across the country.

Of the 3,270 individuals tested, 84 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and two conductors yielded positive results.

Among those who tested positive were 13 bus drivers, one mini-bus driver, 19 jeepney drivers, 47 tricycle drivers, one taxi driver, two motorcycle taxi riders and 11 UV Express drivers.

Two conductors also tested positive for illegal drug use.

LTFRB chairperson Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III said the agency takes the results seriously and will act swiftly to hold accountable those who put public safety at risk.

“It is unacceptable and deeply troubling that individuals entrusted with the safety of passengers are found to be operating vehicles under the influence of prohibited substances,” Guadiz stressed.

“They (operators) will be required to explain why no sanction should be imposed upon them for employing drivers who pose a clear risk to public safety,” he said.

Guadiz reminded operators that they are duty-bound to ensure their drivers are fit to operate public transport vehicles, both physically and mentally.

Failure to comply with these responsibilities may result in penalties, including possible suspension or cancellation of their franchises.

The LTFRB continues to work closely with the PDEA and other agencies to keep the country’s roads safe and free from drug-impaired drivers.