The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is gearing up for the expected surge of commuters going home to their provinces to observe All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on November 1 and 2.
According to DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez, the agency is now conducting “strict inspections” of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators to ensure the safety of commuters.
These inspections will include random drug and alcohol testing of PUV drivers, vehicle roadworthiness check, and verification of valid franchises and licenses.
“[Inspections] are on-going. A few days [before] Undas, what we will be checking are the drivers because we will coordinate with PDEA. I am announcing this now, so that the drivers will stop doing what they are doing, don’t live with drugs, it is forbidden,” Lopez was quoted as saying.
The DOTr, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), has intensified its campaign to eliminate the use of illegal drugs among PUV drivers.
The joint operation aims to uphold road safety and protect commuters from the dangers of impaired driving.
Random testing and surprise inspections are being carried out at bus terminals, provincial routes, and transport hubs to ensure that all drivers are fit to operate their vehicles.
Drivers found under the influence of alcohol or using unregistered vehicles will then face immediate suspension, revocation of licenses, or impoundment of units.
The transportation department advised commuters to plan their trips early and remain patient amid the expected congestion in terminals and highways.
Passengers are also encouraged to follow terminal protocols, secure their belongings, and only take authorized public transport vehicles.
“What we can say is that we are ready for Oplan Undas, but aside from the preparation of government infrastructure, it is also important that the owners are prepared, check the tires, the brakes. Your vehicle must be in good condition and you must be in good condition to drive because no matter how beautiful our infrastructure is, the main reason is the driver himself,” Lopez stated.
DOTr assured the public that with its full coordination among transport agencies, law enforcement units, and local governments, it is 100 percent ready to handle the travel rush and ensure that Filipinos can observe Undas 2025 peacefully and safely.
(With report from PIA)
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