Pillion riders may face raps for not following health protocols — Eleazar

MANILA, Philippines — Pillion riders may face criminal complaints for not complying with health protocols as mandated by Republic Act 11332 or the law on mandatory reporting of notifiable diseases, Police Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, head of Joint Task Force COVID Shield, said Friday.

“Mayroon tayong batas na R.A. 11332. Ngayon po isa sa mga provision doon, ito po ay non-cooperation of person or entity on this health or public concern. Pwede nating gamitin iyon aside from possible existing ordinances ng isang lugar. Aside from sa hindi mag-su-suot ng helmet,” Eleazar said over Teleradyo when asked about violations of those breaching pillion riding protocols.

(We have a law on Republic Act 11332. One of the provisions there is non-cooperation of person or entity on this health or public concern. We can use that law aside from the possible existing ordinances in an area. Aside from those who are not wearing helmets.)

To recall, the government allowed pillion riding on motorcycles only for married couples or couples living together. It also required couples to use a protective barrier while onboard motorcycles.

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año previously said couples should also bring identification cards to present at checkpoints.

For now, Eleazar said those who will not comply with the guidelines on pillion riding will just be warned.

READ: No arrests to be made on 1st day of allowed pillion riding for couples — HPG

/MUF