10 drivers test positive for drug use

CEBU, Philippines - Ten out of 150 drivers were found positive for drug use during the roadside drug testing conducted by the Land Transportation Office-7 and Cemex Corp. in Naga City yesterday.

LTO-7 Regional Director Raul Aguilos said that the ten are multicabs and mini-bus drivers plying the Southern Cebu route.

Aguilos said the driver’s license of the ten drivers were confiscated and will be subject for revocation if they will also test positive in a confirmatory test to be done in Manila.

Once revoked, these drivers can no longer get a license unless they undergo rehabilitation in a center accredited by the Department of Health and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

Aside from rehabilitation, they also have to pay a fine of P10,000.

Aguilos said roadside drug testing is done to protect the passengers from drivers who use prohibited drugs.

This is also aimed to stop drug users from driving motor vehicles, especially public utility vehicles, to prevent road accidents.

Yesterday’s roadside drug testing was part of LTO’s celebration of the Road Safety Month as well as in preparation for the June 3 opening of classes.

“This is just part of a series of road safety activities being undertaken by LTO and Cemex Corporation to promote safety,” said Aguilos.

Aguilos encourages big business establishments like Cemex Corp. to partner with them in promoting road safety in their respective workplace and community. —/MBG (FREEMAN)