LTFRB: PUV operators not exempted from sanctions

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) warned bus and other public utility vehicle operators on Sunday that terminating drivers who tested positive for drug use during random drug tests conducted last 16 April will not exempt them from penalties.

The tests were part of “Oplan: Harabas” at major land transport terminals nationwide.

LTFRB spokesperson Atty. Ariel Inton stated that it is the responsibility of bus and public vehicle operators to conduct regular random drug tests on their employees, including drivers and conductors, to ensure passenger safety.

“Don’t gamble with the lives of passengers in public transportation,” Inton told bus operators, warning them of potential suspension or revocation of their franchise.

The LTFRB has issued show-cause orders to bus operators whose drivers tested positive for illegal drug use during the nationwide drug screening conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency last 16 April.

Out of 3,270 individuals tested, 84 public utility vehicle 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.

“Their (bus operators’) approach should be preventive. They should have done a random drug test prior to Holy Week or any other peak season,” Inton said.

“It’s not an excuse to say that nothing happened, because they were found positive. It’s also not an excuse that they already removed the driver,” he added.

Meanwhile, LTFRB chairperson Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III said the agency takes the results of the recent random drug testing seriously and will act swiftly to hold accountable those who put public safety at risk.