The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has once again taken a strong stance on road safety by revoking the licenses of 98 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers who tested positive for illegal drug use during the Holy Week exodus. This sweeping move is in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive and the guidance of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon to prioritize commuter safety and public road discipline.
LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II stated that these drivers, including several bus drivers, are now permanently disqualified from ever obtaining a driver’s license again. “Getting a driver’s license is not a right—it is a privilege granted by the government on the condition that drivers will behave responsibly. If this condition is violated, then the privilege will be revoked…” said Asec. Mendoza.
SCTEX Crash Driver Also Sanctioned; Institution Issues Strong Warning
In a related development, the LTO also permanently revoked the license of the bus driver involved in the fatal Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) crash that claimed 10 lives. The revocation was based on the driver’s refusal to undergo the mandatory drug test, which led to a lifetime ban from driving.
This marked the first time such a large-scale revocation has occurred, and DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon made it clear during a press briefing that this is just the beginning of intensified efforts to hold PUV companies and drivers accountable. “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 Dizon.
He added a firm warning to operators: “Kapag yan pinagmaneho pa rin ng mga bus companies at mga PUV companies or owners, pati prangkisa ninyo ire-revoke namin.”
The LTO also warned reckless and irresponsible drivers, often labeled “kamote drivers,” reminding them that the privilege to drive comes with the responsibility to uphold road safety. “They must behave at all times. Otherwise, we will not hesitate to revoke your privilege to drive,” said Mendoza.
To reinforce these measures, the LTO and DOTr are ramping up drug and alcohol testing efforts, improving coordination with the LTFRB, and intensifying monitoring to ensure that only competent, drug-free drivers are allowed behind the wheel. The government’s message is clear: those who jeopardize public safety will face serious consequences, no exceptions.
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