Preparations are underway for mandatory and unannounced drug testing for approximately 12,000 public transport drivers in Angeles City. Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. is determined to eradicate illegal drug use in the city. This initiative was discussed during a coordination meeting led by Lazatin’s trusted adviser and chief political officer, IC Calaguas.
Calaguas outlined Lazatin’s plan, which involves conducting drug tests at all terminals for the aforementioned 12,000 public transport drivers. The model for this project is based on the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency’s “Oplan Harabas: Drug Test Muna Bago Pasada,” which was initially implemented during the tenure of Director General Aaron Aquino, with Calaguas serving as his acting Deputy Director General for Administration and Chief of Staff.
The execution of this project will be a collaborative effort between the city government and the Land Transportation Office (LTO). The legal foundation for this program is Republic Act 10586, also known as the “Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.”
Various city officials are involved in this program, including Councilor Atty. Arvin Suller, Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, Angeles City Anti-Drug Abuse Council 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.
Calaguas emphasized that this program underscores the Lazatin administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring public safety and curbing the prevalence of illegal drugs in the transportation sector. Mayor Lazatin is calling for the full cooperation of public transportation operators and drivers to ensure the success of this initiative.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
