Joint Drug Operation in Negros Nets 20 Positive Cases Among Transport Workers
A coordinated anti-drug operation in Negros Oriental has led to the identification of 20 individuals who tested positive for illegal substances. The operation, known as Oplan Harabas 2026, was conducted on January 29, 2025, in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. This initiative was spearheaded by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency–Negros Island Region (PDEA-NIR) in partnership with the Land Transportation Office–Negros Island Region (LTO-NIR) and several other agencies.
Leadership and Deployment Details
The operation was overseen by a team of high-ranking officials from various agencies. Key leaders included LTO-NIR Officer-in-Charge Director Jeck Conlu, PDEA-NIR Director Melvin Estoque, Coast Guard District Southern Visayas Commodore Christopher Auro, Police Regional Office-NIR Director Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay, and Regional Highway Patrol Unit-NIR Chief Lieutenant Colonel Ma. Delia Pedrezuela. According to an LTO-NIR statement, a total of 96 personnel were deployed for this operation, with 18 coming directly from LTO-NIR.
Scope and Locations of the Operation
The random drug testing was carried out at multiple strategic locations across Dumaguete City to maximize coverage and effectiveness. The targeted sites included the Dumaguete Transport Terminal, Dumaguete Ceres Terminal, Bypass Road, Zone 2, and Barangay Looc. These areas are known hubs for transport activities, making them critical points for ensuring road safety and compliance with drug-free policies among transport workers.
Breakdown of Positive Test Results
LTO-NIR records indicate that out of 193 transport workers who underwent the drug test, 20 individuals yielded positive results for illegal drug use. The breakdown of these cases reveals a diverse range of transport roles affected:
- 14 truck drivers
- 1 truck helper
- 1 jeepney driver
- 1 e-trike driver
- 3 tricycle drivers
This data highlights the widespread nature of the issue across different segments of the transport sector in the region.
Procedures and Next Steps
Proper documentation and required procedures were meticulously followed for all individuals who tested positive during the initial screening. The LTO-NIR has clarified that those with initial positive results will undergo confirmatory testing to verify the findings. If the confirmatory tests also return positive, the individuals will face appropriate administrative sanctions in line with existing rules and regulations. This step ensures due process while maintaining strict enforcement of anti-drug policies to promote public safety and integrity within the transport industry.
