The Land Transportation Office (LTO) disclosed on Monday that it has revoked the driver’s licenses of 98 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers who tested positive for illegal drug use during the Holy Week travel period last month.

LTO chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said that the action aligns with the instructions of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Department of Transportation (DoTr) Secretary Vince Dizon to ensure road safety.

In a statement, Mendoza said that the 98 PUV drivers, including bus drivers, will also face a lifetime ban from obtaining a driver’s license.

“This decision is in line with the declaration of our Secretary Dizon about the need for us in the government to fight back against these errant drivers for the sake of the safety of road users,” Mendoza said.

“Getting a driver’s license is not a right, it is a privilege given by the national government under the condition that you will behave and be a responsible driver. If you violate this condition, then this privilege will be revoked, similar to our decision in connection with the 98 PUV drivers who tested positive for illegal drug use,” he added.

Mendoza also confirmed that the license of the bus driver involved in the recent SCTEX road accident that killed 10 people has been revoked, with a lifetime ban on obtaining a driver’s license as part of the penalty.

The driver’s refusal to undergo a drug test was cited as the reason for the revocation.

In a press briefing, Dizon cited that this is the first time the LTO has issued a revocation order for such a large number of PUV drivers.

“For drivers, especially in PUV companies, if you do not think we are serious, you are mistaken. Those licenses have been revoked, and I am double-checking with the LTFRB and the LTO to ensure they are no longer driving,” Dizon said.

“If bus companies and PUV companies or owners still allow them to drive, we will also revoke your franchise,” he added.