7 public utility drivers positive of illegal drug use

CEBU, Philippines - Seven more public utility drivers were tested positive of using illegal drugs during a random roadside drug test conducted yesterday by the Land Transportation Office-7 personnel.

There were 33 taxi and PUJ drivers that were subjected to the drug test. Four taxi drivers and three PUJ drivers tested positive.

LTO-7 operatives confiscated their license and will be barred from driving until they shall have complied with the mandatory rehabilitation at the accredited facility of the Department of Health.

After rehabilitation, the drivers will have to pay P10,000 fine before they will be issued a new license.

Department of Transportation and Communication Secretary Mar Roxas plans to use the Cebu model in the conduct of roadside drug testing.

LTO-7 director Raul Aguilos said Roxas wanted to implement the roadside drug test nationwide. According to Aguilos, the secretary has asked the module of the roadside drug testing in Cebu.

Since the implementation of the roadside drug testing last year, over 30 public utility drivers have already been found positive of drug use. – (FREEMAN)