Two bus drivers from Solid North Bus Inc., which was involved in a fatal road crash on Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), have tested positive for illegal drugs during a mandatory drug testing conducted by the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
In a statement, Department of Transportation (DOTr) said that the bus drivers who tested positive will undergo confirmatory tests and if the results are validated, they may face ‘perpetual revocation’ of their driver's licenses and potential criminal charges.
Aside from drug testing, the bus company’s fleet was also inspected at the motor vehicle inspection center (MVIC) in Zambales.
Out of the 276 units inspected, only 46 were considered compliant with roadworthiness standards, while the LTO continues to assess the remaining units.
“These measures were implemented to ensure the safety of passengers, after one of Solid North Bus Inc.’s units was involved in the fatal Labor Day road crash in SCTEX, leaving 10 people dead,” DOTr added.
Department of Transportation Vince Dizon assured the public that the government remains committed to implementing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to provide a safe and convenient travel experience for all passengers.
The LTO will continue conducting drug tests among Solid North drivers to ensure passenger safety.
