Seven PUV drivers test positive in surprise drug test

At least seven bus and taxi drivers tested positive for illegal drugs in a surprise test for the Holy Week in Visayas and Mindanao, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). PDEA director general Undersecretary Jose Gutierrez said the surprise drug test was aimed at ensuring the safety of the droves of tourists and vacationers using public transport to observe Semana Santa, in light of recent road mishaps. “This is our humble share in helping keep our kababayans and tourists safe during this Holy Week. While the nation and the rest of the Christian world commemorate the Lord’s passion, death and resurrection, we remain on heightened alert and ready to serve and protect," Gutierrez said on Friday. The PDEA chief said that five out of the 50 drivers who were subjected to the test were positive for illegal drugs in the Eastern Visayas Region. In the Central Visayas Region, two drivers were found positive. Drivers in the rest of the regions where drug testing was being conducted were all found negative. Twenty-two were tested in Western Visayas, 11 were tested in the Zamboanga Region, and 35 were tested in Northern Mindanao. In Davao City, 311 drivers were tested and one tested positive for drugs. However, when authorities conducted a "confirmatory testing," the results turned up negative. Gutierrez has already instructed PDEA agents to coordinate with other law enforcement units to intensify security at checkpoints and to prevent the transportation of illegal drugs during the Holy Week. The PDEA conducted the drug testing with the help of the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory, the Highway Patrol Group, and the Land Transportation Office. -TJD, GMA News