4 PUV Drivers Face License Revocation Over Drug Use

By Gerome Dalipe IV

Four public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers may soon lose their licenses after testing positive for illegal drug use during a surprise inspection by the Land Transportation Office Region 6 (LTO-6).

The drivers—a taxi driver, a tricycle driver, and two modernized jeepney drivers—were among 156 PUV operators subjected to random drug testing during “Oplan Harabas” on April 15 at the Ceres Terminal in Barangay Tagbak, Jaro, and the Mohon Terminal in Arevalo District.

Confirmatory tests by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 6 detected methamphetamine hydrochloride, or “shabu,” in their urine samples.

The results, validated through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), were relayed to LTO-6 in a letter dated April 21 from PDEA-6 Regional Director Melvin S. Estoque.

The operation was conducted in line with Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

It was a joint effort involving LTO, PDEA, the Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Health (DOH), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and the Iloilo City Government.

“This initiative is part of our broader commitment to ensure that our roads are safe and free from drivers under the influence of illegal drugs,” said LTO-6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso Geduspan II.

“We want to prevent drug-related road crashes and protect the commuting public,” he added.

Assistant Regional Director Jeck Conlu echoed the stance, saying public transport operators must strictly follow safety standards for the benefit of commuters.

“Oplan Harabas” is part of the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa and Summer Vacation 2025” safety campaign.

In response to the positive test results, LTO-6 has summoned the four drivers for administrative hearings.

The agency is considering revoking their licenses under its zero-tolerance policy on drug use among drivers.

Director Geduspan said similar operations will continue as part of ongoing efforts to uphold road safety and protect passengers from drug-impaired drivers.