• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
A total of 20 transport workers in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, failed a surprise drug test conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency–Negros Island Region (PDEA-NIR), in coordination with the Land Transportation Office–Negros Island Region (LTO-NIR) and other partner agencies, yesterday.
The operation took place at the Dumaguete Transport Terminal, Dumaguete Ceres Terminal, and Bypass Road in Zone 2, Barangay Looc, with 96 personnel deployed, including 18 from LTO-NIR.
Out of 193 transport workers tested, 20 were found positive for illegal drug use.
LTO-NIR disclosed that among those who tested positive were 14 truck drivers, one truck helper, one jeepney driver, three tricycle drivers, and one e-trike driver.
Those who initially test positive will undergo confirmatory testing. Once confirmed, they will face appropriate administrative sanctions according to existing rules and regulations.
Additionally, individuals confirmed positive will face charges for violations of the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act (RA 10586) and the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165).
All proper documentation and procedures were observed for those who tested positive.
The agency emphasized that the activity aligns with its mandate to ensure that public utility vehicle drivers are physically and mentally fit to operate, safeguarding public safety.*
