Quezon city: The driver involved in the fatal crash along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City on Oct. 17 tested positive for illegal drugs, the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) confirmed Sunday. QCPD Acting Director Col. Randy Glenn Silvio reported that the suspect, Ruel dela Cerna, was found positive for shabu following a laboratory test conducted by the QCPD Forensic Unit.

According to Philippines News Agency, police have filed multiple charges against the 54-year-old suspect, including murder, frustrated murder, malicious mischief, abandonment of one’s own victim, and resistance and disobedience to a person in authority. Furthermore, Dela Cerna will face charges for violating the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act.

Col. Silvio emphasized that driving under the influence of illegal drugs carries significant penalties. If the offense results in death, the penalties include imprisonment ranging from 12 to 20 years and fines of up to PHP500,000.

Land Transportation Office Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao announced that Dela Cerna’s driver’s license has been permanently revoked. Additionally, the Department of Transportation has imposed a lifetime driving ban on Dela Cerna.

The incident, which occurred in Barangay UP Campus, saw the UV (utility vehicle) Express plow into 14 vehicles in front of the Commission on Human Rights, resulting in multiple casualties.