Drunk drivers, beware; breath analyzer tests start next week

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MANILA, Philippines – The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has announced that effective March 12, breath analyzer tests will be required of motorists who are thought to under the influence of alcohol.

LTO official, Jason Salvador, said that the measure is aimed at curbing the incidents of drunk driving in the country; especially in National Capital Region, Metro Davao and Metro Cebu, as regions which have the highest recorded rates of vehicular mishaps caused by driving while intoxicated.

“The LTO is mandated to do random drug tests at terminals of public utility vehicles,” Salvador said.

The maximum acceptable blood alcohol levels for non-professional drivers is up to 0.05 percent (approximately the amount after consuming one 12-oz bottle of 5% beer, one glass of 12% wine, or one shot of  80-proof liqour); while for professional drivers, it’s up to 0.01 percent. Drivers found with levels exceeding the limits mandated under the anti-drunk driving law will be penalized in accordance with the stipulations of the law.

Breath analyzer tests will be conducted if the driver fails the initial field sobriety tests, which involve standing on one foot without falling, walking along a straight line and following a moving object with their eyes.