Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada has expressed support for the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) proposal to implement mandatory and regular drug testing for drivers.
Estrada welcomed the announcement by Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, describing it as a proactive step in promoting road safety for commuters.
The senator also mentioned that he is considering the possibility of proposing legislation to make the measure permanent and legally binding.
The proposed policy would require public and private drivers to undergo regular drug testing, though the DOTr has not yet released full guidelines or implementation plans.
Estrada has previously shown support for similar measures. He is one of the co-authors of Republic Act 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013. The law mandates drug and alcohol testing only for drivers involved in vehicular accidents.
The renewed push for stricter testing comes amid concerns over road safety and the potential risks posed by impaired drivers.
While the proposal has been generally well received by lawmakers like Estrada, further discussions are expected as to whether it will move forward as a department policy or a national law.
No timeline has been announced yet for the potential rollout.
