Two drivers from Solid North Bus Inc. have tested positive for illegal drug use following a government-mandated drug testing campaign, according to the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
The two drivers will undergo confirmatory testing. If the results are validated, they could face the permanent revocation of their professional licenses and potential criminal charges.
In addition to drug testing, the LTO also conducted roadworthiness inspections on the bus company’s fleet.
Of the 276 buses inspected at the Zambales Motor Vehicle Inspection Center, only 46 units met current safety standards. The remaining buses are still under evaluation.
The Department of Transportation (DoTr) ordered nationwide drug testing for drivers after a Solid North bus was involved in a fatal road crash on Labor Day along SCTEX, which killed 10 passengers.
The initiative, conducted in coordination with the LTO, is part of a larger crackdown on unfit drivers and unsafe vehicles operating across the country.
The LTO warned it will not hesitate to ground buses or revoke operating permits if violations are found.
Meanwhile, the LTO has started inspecting all passenger buses owned and operated by Solid North Transit.
LTO Chief, Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II, said the inspection, conducted in Subic, Zambales, aims to ensure that all of the bus firm’s units are roadworthy, following the fatal road accident at the expressway toll plaza in Tarlac City on 1 May.
“More than 700 of its drivers, conductors and employees underwent mandatory drug testing, and we are waiting for the final results. This roadworthiness inspection is also a requirement before they can operate again,” Mendoza said.
Earlier, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon ordered the suspension of operations for all Solid North Transit buses after the Tarlac City accident.
Mendoza emphasized that both the mandatory drug testing and the vehicle inspection should serve as a warning and constant reminder to all public utility vehicle (PUV) companies to ensure they comply with the obligations outlined in their franchises.
“Our DoTr Secretary has given strict instructions for the government to take action and show the public that we are serious about ensuring the safety of all road users,” Mendoza said.
“This will be the new normal — conducting random drug tests and roadworthiness inspections,” he added.
In addition to PUVs, the same policy will be applied to all trucking companies.
Furthermore, Mendoza stated that they will intensify their campaign against erratic drivers by deploying more enforcers equipped with breath analyzers.
