- 130 drivers tested in Davao terminals ahead of Holy Week surge
TO ENSURE passenger safety during the Holy Week and summer travel rush, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency XI randomly tested 130 bus and van drivers for illegal substances on Wednesday, April 1.
Led by assistant regional director Christy E. Silvan, PDEA XI coordinated with the Land Transportation Office XI, headed by Atty. Ernesto Rafael V. Robillo, and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board XI under Nonito A. Llanos III, for the operation.
The inspections, part of “Oplan Byaheng Ayos,” targeted the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal in Ecoland and the Gaisano Mall Transport Terminal in Bajada.
The initiative aims to guarantee that public transport operators are drug-free and fit to navigate the long weekend’s increased road traffic.
The PDEA XI’s Preventive Education and Community Involvement Section and the Gender and Development were on-site to provide immediate counseling and health interventions.
Strict penalties and rehabilitation
Drivers who fail the random drug screening will undergo a confirmatory test. A second positive result will lead to the confiscation of their license by the LTO XI. The agency may still reinstate their driving privileges, provided they undergo comprehensive rehabilitation, including:
- Health awareness sessions and counseling.
- Moral recovery and values formation.
- Life skills development, facilitated by their respective Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (ADACs).
A similar operation was conducted on March 31, 2026, at the Tagum City Overland Transport Terminal, as part of a regional strategy to secure major travel hubs.
Byaheng Ayos is anchored on Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and Republic Act No. 10856 (Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013). Both laws empower the state to prevent road accidents caused by drivers under the influence.
