13 drug testing centers decry LTO's in-house drug test center
Thirteen drug testing centers located near the regional office of Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Brgy. Tabuc Suba, Jaro face imminent extinction following the opening of the Drivers License Renewal Center (DLRC) inside a mall last Wednesday.
This is because the DLRC also houses a drug testing and medical center operated by HLO Drug Testing, allegedly based in Cebu.
An operator of a drug testing center in Brgy. Tabuc Suba, who spoke on condition of anonymity, decried the operation of HLO Drug Testing right inside the DLRC saying it is grossly unfair and it would kill their business.
The same source said, it appears that persons applying for drivers license renewal at the DLRC are immediately referred to the HLO Drug Testing located next door for their medical and drug test.
The source further claimed that even those who apply for renewal at the LTO regional office are told to obtain their medical and drug test from the DLRC.
The source said the LTO regional office would not honor drug test results obtained from other drug testing centers.
"Apparently the right of the drivers to choose where to have their medical and drug test is being curtailed," the source added.
Another drug testing center operator said the move is unfair since the drug testing centers located near the LTO regional office are all accredited by the Department of Health and have been serving the public for quite some time.
Before the opening of the DLRC individuals applying for licenses as well as for renewals have been used to taking the services of drug testing centers near the LTO regional office as they are just steps away.
Meanwhile, Felicisimo Robles, officer in charge of the DLRC, denied allegations that LTO does not honor drug test results obtained from other accredited drug testing centers.
"There's no truth to it," Robles said adding, drivers have the freedom to choose where to get their medical and drug test results as long as the establishment is accredited.
Robles also clarified that the nature of the DLRC could be likened to a "one stop shop" the reason why it also houses the drug testing center.
"Our main objective here is to decongest our licensing centers and to give convenience to the clients we serve," Robles said.
Robles said the DLRC is similarly located in Cebu, Davao, Cagayan De Oro, and Metro Manila.