Navotas cracks down on non-helmeted bikers

Navotas Mayor Toby Tiangco has ordered a strict implementation of a local ordinance ordering motorcycle riders to keep their helmets on while traveling, a measure enacted to ensure the safety of motorists on two wheels.

"Wala nang pakiusapan kung mahuli. And this goes too for all police officers. To avoid any embarrassment, we are imposing a ‘no pakiusap’ policy to show everyone that no one is above the law," Tiangco said.

Tiangco directed the Public Order and Safety Office (POSO), the local police force, barangay officials and "Task Force Helmet" personnel of the municipal government to strictly impose the rule of "helmets for all motorcycle riders."

The order was issued by Tiangco following reports that many such riders on scooters and motorcycles, including certain police officers and personnel, are back to the old and dangerous habit of not using protecting head gear while traveling, a violation of Municipal Ordinance 2002-08.

The safety measure requires all motorcycle and scooter riders to wear protective helmets within the territorial jurisdiction of Navotas.

"I would like to remind everybody, including police officers and personnel, that we are strictly enforcing this local ordinance, among others," the mayor said.

In his letter to Senior Superintendent Raul Gonzales, acting Northern Police District Office (NPDO) director, the mayor made an appeal urging him to personally remind his men and "simply abide by the ordinance" as this is being strictly enforced in his town.

The ordinance was enacted to curb a perceived rising number of accidents involving two-wheeled vehicles, mostly involving victims not using protective head gear.

The law imposes a fine of P500 for first offenders; P750 for second timers and P1,000 for third-time offenders.