LTO revokes licenses of 10 bus drivers, 8 conductors for illegal drugs use
At A Glance
- The recent decision was the second "big-time" revocation order from the LTO, the first happened after the Holy Week exodus this year wherein 98 bus drivers lost their licenses due to various offenses that also include testing positive for illegal drugs use.
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) revoked the licenses of 10 bus drivers and eight conductors after they tested positive during the conduct of random and surprise drug tests.
LTO chief, Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said the 10 drivers are employees of the Victory Liner, along with six other bus conductors. The other two bus conductors, he said, are from Solid North Transit Inc. who tested positive during the May 5 drug test.
“Aside from revocation of the licenses, they were also perpetually disqualified from being granted with both the driver’s license and conductor’s license,” said Mendoza.
The recent decision was the second “big-time” revocation order from the LTO, the first happened after the Holy Week exodus this year wherein 98 bus drivers lost their licenses due to various offenses that also include testing positive for illegal drugs use.
“Jurisprudence is replete with cases wherein the Supreme Court rules that a license is merely a permit or privilege, and that such privilege granted by the State may be suspended or revoked in the exercise of its police power, in the interest of the public safety and welfare,” said Mendoza.
“In the case of these people, the expectation is higher because they are driving and catering to the public transportation needs,” he added.
Mendoza said the decision was based on the Republic Act 10586 (Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013) and the Republic Act 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, which specifically states prohibition to drive under the influence of illegal drugs.
Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon vowed to run after erring motorists following the recent fatal road crashes.
In the case of the revocation orders, Dizon also warned bus companies that their franchises will be revoked if he finds out that they are still being allowed to drive.
Mendoza, for his part, warned motorists to strictly comply with what the government wants in exchange for granting the privilege to drive: to be courteous, disciplined and responsible drivers.