Manila bans motorcycle rider face covers

MANILA, Philippines — To deter crimes, the Manila City government has started enforcing an ordinance that prohibits motorcycle riders from using anything that cover their faces.

Mayor Isko Moreno said he signed City Ordinance 9134 or the anti-balaclava and other face covering ordinance last week.

Balaclava, according to ordinance author and District 1 Councilor Rosalino Ibay Jr., is also called a ski mask.

The new law would penalize people if they conceal their facial features and identity by wearing bonnets, ski masks, bandanas, handkerchiefs, caps, hats, hoodies and similar coverings while on a motorcycle or when alighting from their motorcycles to fix it or perform transactions at markets, banks and other similar establishments.

They are also prohibited from using the face coverings when inside commercial, government and other establishments.

According to the measure, motorcycle riders would be excused if they wear face masks during pandemic and other public health emergencies.

Law enforcers on official duty, seriously ill patients and persons required to wear turban and other items according to their religion are also exempted.

The ordinance called on establishments to put up signages requiring motorcycle riders to remove their masks or face coverings before entering.

A fine ranging from P1,000 to P5,000 will be imposed on violators.

Moreno said the ordinance aims to prevent crimes such as hold-up, snatching and others involving motorcycle riders from happening.