Drivers of provincial buses based in Metro Manila were tested yesterday for possible use of illegal drugs with the coming All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

The drug tests were to ensure safe travel for passengers to the provinces for the 1 to 2 November holidays.

From January to September 2018, 1,287 drivers, 24 taxi drivers and 12 bus conductors were arrested for using illegal drugs.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) coordinated with the Land Transportation Office in conducting the dope tests under “Oplan Undaspot.”

The tests were to “prevent illegal drug traffickers from taking advantage of the influx of people and busy operations in these terminals to transport illegal drugs,” PDEA Director General Aaron Aquino said.

A total of 160 bus drivers were tested at the Victory Liner Terminal, Bicol Isarog Terminal and Araneta Center Bus Terminal.

The lone driver who tested positive for drug use will undergo a confirmatory test. He will be fired from his job if he fails the second test.

“The possibility that the bus drivers use illegal drugs to counter fatigue cannot be discounted,” Aquino pointed out.

PDEA’s records from January to September 2018 showed that around 1,287 drivers, 24 taxi drivers and 12 bus conductors were arrested for using illegal drugs.