The Department of Transportation (DOTr) in the Caraga Region, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA-13) and other law enforcement units, has rolled out “Oplan Harabas” ahead of the Undas observance to ensure the safety of travelers during the long weekend.
The initiative, launched Tuesday, includes surprise mandatory drug testing for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and conductors to prevent road accidents and ensure commuter safety during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on November 1 and 2.
Simultaneously, PDEA-13 also implemented “Oplan Undaspot,” conducting on-the-spot drug tests at major transport hubs, including the Langihan and Robinsons terminals in Butuan City.
“The legal basis of ‘Oplan Undaspot’ is Republic Act No. 10586, or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013,” the agency said in a statement.
According to PDEA-13, 28 bus drivers and 27 conductors at the Langihan Terminal underwent drug testing, with one driver testing positive for drug use. At the Robinsons Terminal, 30 bus drivers, 15 conductors, three taxi drivers, two tricycle drivers, one van driver, and one Grab driver were tested, all of whom yielded negative results.
Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office (PRO)-13 announced the deployment of 1,816 personnel across cemeteries, terminals, highways, airports, seaports, churches, and other public areas to maintain peace and order throughout the observance.
Police officers will also man assistance desks in cemeteries and operate motorist aid stations along major highways to provide security and assistance to the traveling public during Undas.