RANDOM TEST. Public utility drivers and conductors in General Santos City fall in line to take the random drug test initiated by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and partner agencies at a bus terminal in General Santos City on Friday (April 8, 2022). The initiative, dubbed, Oplan Harabas, intends to ensure the safety of the passengers heading home for the upcoming Holy Week observance. (Photo courtesy of PDEA-12)
GENERAL SANTOS CITY—Ninety-one public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and nine conductors from here and nearby Koronadal City tested negative for illegal drug use during the simultaneous random drug testing Friday.
Kath Abad, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Soccsksargen spokesperson, said the “Oplan Harabas” surprise drug test was in coordination with the Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, local government units, and the Philippine National Police.
“Oplan Harabas aims to thwart illegal drugs from being a cause of road accidents,” Abad said, adding that surprise drug tests ensure that drivers are not under the influence of any illegal substance before they hit the road.
Of those subjected to urine sample drug testing, 50 were drivers from this city while 41 were from Koronadal City.
Nine passenger van conductors from this city also underwent the test.
Abad said Oplan Harabas also aims to ensure the safety of passengers and other road users heading to the provinces for the Holy Week. (PNA)
