RANDOM DRUG TEST Public utility vehicle drivers complete forms before undergoing drug testing at the Integrated Bus Terminal in Barangay Divisoria, Zamboanga City on Thursday (Oct. 31, 2024). Of the 756 drivers tested across the Zamboanga Peninsula, 20 tested positive for illegal drug use. (Photo courtesy of PDEA-9)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — A surprise drug test conducted under “Oplan Harabas” showed that 20 out of 756 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers across the Zamboanga Peninsula tested positive for illegal drug use.

Maharani Gadaoni-Tosoc, director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula), said the operation aligns with the annual “Undas” observance, aimed at enhancing road safety and deterring illegal drug use among drivers in public transport.

According to Tosoc, the drivers who tested positive on Thursday would be referred to their barangays, anti-drug abuse councils, and local social welfare offices for rehabilitation programs.

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“These drivers, after confirmation, will be referred to their respective barangays or municipal anti-drug abuse councils and to the local social welfare and development officer for appropriate interventions,” Tosoc said.

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Of the 20 drivers, 12 were from Zamboanga City, seven from Zamboanga del Sur, and one, a tricycle driver, from Zamboanga Sibugay.

Of the 756 drivers tested, 230 were from Zamboanga del Sur, 200 from Zamboanga Sibugay, 176 from Zamboanga City, and 150 from Zamboanga del Norte.

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“Oplan Harabas” was conducted in several regional transport hubs, including the Agora Terminal in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur; the Integrated Bus Terminal in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte; the Van Terminal in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay; and the Integrated Bus Terminal in Divisoria, Zamboanga City.

The initiative, led by PDEA-9, was conducted with the Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, Philippine National Police and local government units.

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