THE Land Transportation Office (LTO), under the guidance of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon, has revoked the driver’s license of the 98 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers who tested positive for illegal drugs use during the Holy Week exodus.
LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said the 98 PUV drivers, including bus drivers, will also be penalized with perpetual disqualification from obtaining driver’s license.
“This decision is in line with the declaration of our Secretary Dizon about the need for us in the government to fight back against these errant drivers for the sake of the safety of road users,” said Asec Mendoza.
“Getting driver’s license is not a right, it is a privilege given by the national government under the condition that you will behave and be a responsible driver. If you violate this condition, then this privilege will be revoked similar to our decision in connection with the 98 PUV drivers who tested positive for illegal drugs use,” he added.
At the same time, Asec Mendoza said the license of the bus driver in the SCTEX road accident that killed 10 people was also revoked, adding that part of the penalty is lifetime ban to get a driver’s license.
The refusal of the bus driver to undergo a drug test was the ground for the decision.
In a press briefing, Secretary Dizon said it was the first time that the LTO issued a revocation order of driver’s license to a large number of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers.
“Para sa mga driver lalo na sa PUV companies, if you do not think we are serious nagkakamali kayo. Revoke na yang mga lisensyang yan at pinapa-double check ko na sa LTFRB at sa LTO kung talagang hindi na nagmamaneho ang mga yan,” said Secretary Dizon.
“Kapag yan pinagmaneho pa rin ng mga bus companies at mga PUV companies or owners, pati prangkisa ninyo ire-revoke namin,” he warned.
Asec Mendoza urged motorists to behave as he warned that the LTO will be serious in running after “kamote” drivers.
“Our aggressive actions in the past weeks should serve as a warning, as a strong message against errant drivers. They must behave at all times, otherwise, we will not hesitate to revoke your privilege to drive,” he said.
