The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has vowed to continue conducting surprise inspections on bus terminals and drug test on drivers of passenger buses as millions of Filipinos are expected to go to their hometowns for the long Holy Week break.

LTO chief JayArt Tugade said the surprise inspections of passenger buses is meant to ensure the road worthiness of buses, especially for the long trips of buses going to and from Metro Manila and other urban areas.

During his surprise inspection at two major bus terminals in Metro Manila, Tugade said five bus drivers tested positive for illegal drugs—four at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange and one at the Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City. 

More than 140 bus drivers and conductors underwent drug test on Saturday, April 1, during Tugade’s surprise inspection at the PITX and Araneta Center.

He said one bus at the PITX was not allowed to travel due for having worn-out tires and fauly break lights.

“We also subjected the drivers and conductors to breath analyzer test and random drug test to ensure they are in proper condition and are alert when conveying passengers to their point of destination,” said Tugade.

“We also distributed copies of the Filipino Driver’s Manual to bus drivers to further remind them about road safety,” he added.

Tugade vowed to continue conducting inspections especially on the days leading to the Lenten exodus, explaining that it is a necessary move as lives of people are at stake.