DOTr mandates drug tests for PUV, motorcycle taxi drivers

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is mandating regular drug tests for public utility vehicle (PUV) and motorcycle taxi drivers, with operators to shoulder the costs.

This initiative, aimed at improving road safety following recent fatal accidents, has been questioned by some transport groups and lawmakers.

1-Rider Partylist Representative Bonifacio Bosita called the mandatory drug testing discriminatory, arguing that private car owners should also be tested.

The Palace, however, defended the rule, stating its necessity for commuter and passenger safety.

Recent fatal accidents include a multi-vehicle collision on SCTEX caused by a bus, which killed at least 10 people, and an SUV incident at NAIA that resulted in two deaths.

While the drivers in these specific incidents tested negative for alcohol and drugs, the DOTr is proceeding with enhanced safety measures.

Bosita supports the DOTr's directive to shorten driving hours for PUV drivers, emphasizing strict enforcement.

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GMA News
1-Rider rep: Mandatory drug testing of PUV drivers discriminatory
ABS-CBN
Palace backs regular drug tests for PUV drivers
Manila Bulletin
Bacolod City officials back mandatory drug test for PUV drivers
Philippine News Agency
Palace sees need for mandatory drug test to ensure road safety
Philstar
DOTr orders drug testing for PUV drivers every six months
BusinessWorld Online
DoTr orders shorter driving hours, regular drug testing for public utility drivers
Philippine News Agency
Bacolod City officials back mandatory drug test for PUV drivers
Manila Bulletin
Senators support move to require drug testing for PUV drivers every 90 days
Philippine News Agency
DOTr chief orders drug testing for all PUV drivers every 90 days
Manila Bulletin
DOTr to require mandatory drug testing for PUV drivers every 90 days
Rappler
DOTr to require regular drug tests for PUV drivers
Philstar
DOTr mandates drugs tests, reduced drivers’ hours after deadly road crashes
ABS-CBN
DOTr chief wants regular drug testing for PUV drivers
Inquirer
PUV drivers mandated to undergo drug testing every 90 days – Dizon
GMA News
DOTr to require all PUV drivers to undergo mandatory drug test