In observance of Undas (All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days), the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in the Caraga Region (Region 13), in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA-13) and other law enforcement units, launched “Oplan Harabas,” a region-wide initiative aimed at ensuring the safety of travelers through surprise mandatory drug testing for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and conductors.
The campaign, part of the government’s pre-Undas safety measures, seeks to prevent road accidents caused by drug-impaired driving and to promote public safety as thousands are expected to travel to their hometowns this week.
As part of the initiative, authorities also rolled out “Oplan Undaspot” on Tuesday, conducting on-the-spot drug tests for drivers and conductors at the Langihan and Robinsons terminals in this city.
“The legal basis of ‘Oplan Undaspot’ is Republic Act No. 10586, or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013,” PDEA-13 said in a statement.
According to PDEA-13, a total of 28 bus drivers and 27 conductors at Langihan Terminal underwent drug testing, with one driver testing positive for illegal drug use.
At the Robinsons Terminal, 30 bus drivers, 15 conductors, three taxi drivers, two tricycle drivers, one van driver, and one Grab driver were tested, all yielding negative results.
Meanwhile, in preparation for the expected surge of travelers during the Undas period, the Police Regional Office (PRO)-13 announced the deployment of 1,816 police personnel across the region.
Police officers will be stationed in cemeteries, public streets, airports, seaports, bus terminals, churches, and other areas of public convergence to ensure peace and order. Assistance desks will also be set up in cemeteries and along major highways to provide help to motorists and commuters.
Authorities are reminding the public to remain vigilant, cooperate with law enforcement personnel, and observe safety protocols during the Undas holiday.