89 Drivers Tested Positive for Drugs in 'Oplan Harabas'

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) announced that its 'Oplan Harabas' driver drug test conducted in key ports showed 89 people who were positive for illegal drug use.

Aaron Aquino, Director General for PDEA, explained that the agency conducted 5,009 driver drug tests in major container terminals nationwide. This included the Philippines' two biggest ports: the Manila International Container Port (MICP) at the North Harbor in Tondo, Manila and the Port of Manila at the South Harbor in Port Area, Manila.

Of the 5,009 tested, the 89 who came out positive for the use of shabu and marijuana included 49 truck drivers, 11 tricycle drivers, nine truck helpers, nine van drivers, five jeepney drivers, three multi-cab drivers, two mini-bus drivers, and one truck employee.

'Oplan Harabas' is a simultaneous drug test conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to lessen the demand for illegal drugs and ensure a drug-free workplace.

PDEA decided to do it first in the country's key ports because drivers not only use heavy-duty commercial vehicles, but they mostly use it for their long-distance travel.

"There is a prevailing practice of drug use among the driving population to stay awake for long trips," Aquino said.

Those who tested positive for drug use will have their driver's license revoked by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and would undergo a rehabilitation process that includes counseling, values formation, moral recovery, and other life skills before they can get their licenses back.