Three more PUV drivers test positive for drugs

CEBU, Philippines - Three more public utility drivers were tested positive of illegal drugs as the Land Transportation Office operatives yesterday continue the roadside drug testing.

Two of those tested positive of using shabu were taxi drivers while the other one was a Public Utility Jeepney driver plying Talamban route.

The three were part of the 50 drivers subjected to the random roadside drug testing by the LTO operatives at the Talamban area.

 Last Tuesday there were also six tested positive of illegal drugs out of the 51 drivers subjected to the test.

LTO regional director Raul Aguilos said that the three drivers recently tested positive were also suspended. Their licenses were confiscated pending the result of the confirmatory test in Manila.

According to Aguilos, there were already 14 PUV drivers who have been confirmed drug addicts.

Their licenses were already revoked and will not be granted another license until after six months.

They also need to show proof that they have undergone drug rehabilitation aside from paying the P10,000 fine. Those who are already tested positive twice will no longer be allowed to get a new driver’s license.

Aguilos said another round of roadside drug test will be conducted by them next month.

The activity is part of the LTO’s 10-year road safety program to reduce traffic accidents, which is considered as one of the leading causes of death in the world. —(FREEMAN)