On June 19, 2024, Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. initiated a surprise drug testing for 200 drivers from the P2FVTODA. This proactive measure is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal drug use and ensure the safety of its citizens. The drug testing was supervised by Mayor Lazatin himself, with the support of personnel from the Angeles City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ACADAC) led by Ricky Saul.
The surprise drug test was conducted in coordination with the Land Transportation Office (LTO). “Ang ginagawa nating ito ay bahagi po ng ating programa kontra droga,” Mayor Lazatin stated, emphasizing the importance of the initiative in their anti-drug campaign. “Ito rin po ay upang masiguro na walang droga sa hanay ng mga drivers dito sa Angeles,” he added, highlighting the goal of maintaining a drug-free environment among the city’s tricycle drivers.
Chief Adviser IC Calaguas spearheaded the drug testing program, with significant contributions from various city officials. These included Councilor Atty. Arvin Suller, Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, ACADAC Head Ricky Saul, Angeles City Traffic Development Officer Francis Pangilinan, Public Transportation and Regulatory Officer Ferdinand Calma, City Health Officer Dr. Verona Guevarra, CHO Assistant Officer Dr. Cristine Joy Patio, Gender and Development Officer Mina Cabiles, Information and Communication Technology Division Chief Michael Lising, Association of Barangay Captains – Angeles City President Danilo Nacu, Angeles City Economic Development and Investment Promotions Officer Irish Bonus-Llego, and City Social Welfare and Development Officer Edna Duaso.
The drug testing initiative is grounded in Republic Act 10586, also known as the “Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.” Mayor Lazatin’s commitment to preserving public safety through this program underscores the city’s determination to prevent the spread of illegal drugs within the transportation sector. He called for the full cooperation of public transportation operators and drivers to ensure the success of this crucial initiative.
This program draws inspiration from the “Oplan: Harabas Drug Test Muna Bago Pasada” campaign, initially introduced by former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Director General Aaron Aquino. The program’s implementation in Angeles City reflects a sustained effort to promote public safety and a drug-free community.
With a staggering 11,500 tricycle drivers in the city, this drug testing initiative marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of both the drivers and the passengers they serve. The city’s leadership remains committed to extending these efforts and maintaining vigilance in the fight against illegal drugs.
Photo by: Angeles City Information Office
