SIMULTANEOUS random drug testing and terminal security sweeps targeted public transport workers across Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, and Santiago City, Isabela, on August 28, 2026.
Spearheaded by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office 2 (PDEA RO2) under Regional Director DIR III Gil Cesario P. Castro, the regional initiative aimed to reinforce safety and curb drug distribution within the public transportation sector.
Collaborative forces executing the operations included the Land Transportation Office Region 2 (LTO RO2), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Region 2 (LTFRB RO2), Highway Patrol Group (HPG), Tactical Enforcement Unit of the Santiago City Police Office, Tuguegarao City Police Station SWAT, and local government units from both cities.
Starting around 7:00 AM in Tuguegarao City, officers screened 119 bus drivers, conductors, and van operators.
Initial screening detected Methamphetamine Hydrochloride (shabu) in one bus driver’s sample, which was later confirmed through secondary laboratory testing. Authorities confirmed that legal interventions and standard operating protocols will follow.
Over in Santiago City, testing began at 8:00 AM for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and conductors. Out of 110 individuals screened, four tested positive during preliminary drug evaluations.
Complementing the chemical screenings, specialized PDEA K9 units swept terminal areas, inspecting passengers and luggage to deter individuals from using transit networks as drug trafficking routes.
Highlighting the necessity of inter-agency cooperation, Director Castro emphasized that maintaining public transport safety requires active participation from government bodies, transport operators, and passengers alike.
Castro noted that regular preventive sweeps ensure commuters can travel with confidence while verifying that public drivers remain fit for duty.
PDEA RO2 reiterated its request for transport operators, staff, and passengers to stay vigilant and maintain compliance with law enforcement to secure a drug-free transport system throughout Region 2.
