LTO revokes 99 drivers' licenses for drug use, implements new safety measures

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has permanently revoked the driving license of Teodoro Merjan and 98 other PUV drivers who tested positive for drug use during random tests.

Merjan confessed to dozing off while driving on the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), where he caused a fatal crash resulting in 10 deaths and 37 injuries, leading to criminal charges including homicide and physical injury.

Solid North Bus will face civil cases and compensation claims beyond usual third-party liability insurance coverage, while all buses under Solid North and other PUV drivers must now undergo drug tests every three months as part of new safety measures.

The LTO announced that 278 Solid North buses will undergo machine-accredited motor vehicle inspections by the LTO, with mandatory drug testing conducted by DOH-authorized clinics for drivers and conductors.

LTO chief Assistant Secretary Vigor D. Mendoza II emphasized that driver's licenses are a privilege and not a right, stressing that violations can result in lifetime bans on driving.