PUV drivers to undergo mandatory alcohol, drug testing, says DOTr

MANILA: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has mandated that public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers must undergo a comprehensive alcohol and drug test, in the agency’s bid to reinforce road safety.

Under Department Order (DO) No. 2025-008, PUV drivers, including motorcycle taxi riders, shall be subject to regular mandatory alcohol and drug testing before employment. The cost of which will be shouldered by the operators and owners of the vehicles.

The said test will then be conducted every six months after they have been employed, as well as a periodic random test including tests conducted whenever there is reasonable suspicion of drug use.

“The new order underscores the government’s commitment to implementing a stricter road safety plan nationwide pursuant to the President’s directive to make the country’s roads safe again,” DOTr wrote on a Facebook post.

Sanctions

Drivers who fail to submit the mandatory alcohol and drug tests or carry with him (or her) the results of the drug test while operating a PUV will be subjected to the following sanctions:

• Holding of employment or dispatch
• Revocation of driver’s license

On the other hand, operators who are unable to perform their obligations will face the below penalties:

• A ground for cancellation of Certificate of Public Convenience, Provisional Authority, or Special Permit
• A ground for suspension of Certificate of Registration of the vehicle covered by the DO for a period of 90 days

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