CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)–Without yet the prototype or barrier design to be placed between the motorcycle driver and passenger from the National Inter Agency Task Force (IATF), the Philippine National Police (PNP)-10 still allows back riding for couples starting July 10.
During the NorMin COVID-19 Response Task Force Press Conference, July 14, PLtCol Mardy Hortillosa said, “Ang mando namo sa kapulisan pwede mag-angkas maski wala pa ang barrier kay nagpaabot pa ta sa barrier design nga gamiton. Kung naa na, ang mga gamotorsiklo kinahanglan nga magpabutang gyud ato.”
(Based on our mandate from the police, motorcycle back riding is allowed even without the barrier yet since we are still waiting for the barrier design that will be used. If the design is already available, motorcycle drivers should put one on their vehicle)
Since July 10, Hortillosa said they have not reported any violation on back riding and emphasized that they are intensifying the awareness on back riding guidelines including the use of helmet of both the driver and passenger, and wearing of face mask at all times.
As for Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Sec. Eduardo Año’s pronouncement on back riding, Regional Director Arnel Agabe said there is a unified policy on such that should be followed by the local government units (LGUs).
The prototype designs submitted by Bohol Governor Arthur Yap and Angkas chief transport advocate George Royeca, where the driver would wear the barrier like a backpack, were approved by the National Task Force for COVID-19 and shall be adhered to, Agabe said.
The regional director added, “Kung mas maayo na ang atong kahimtang (If we have a better situation) and if we will make a very positive performance and accomplishment in the prevention and containment of the virus, dili lang ang minyo o common-law couples ang i-allow nga i-backride pwede na ang uban pud (not only the married or common-law couples will be allowed for motorcycle back riding, others may be allowed as well)
DILG said back-riders will be asked to present documents at Quarantine Control Points (QCPs) or to law enforcers as proof that they are indeed a couple. Agabe said a married couple must have the same last name and for common-law partners, they must share the same address.
The department also reminded the public though that as the design of the motorcycle is modified, riders must be cautious and must always observe speed limit while riding. (RTP/PIA10)
