Government backpedals on motorbike barriers

MANILA, Philippines — There’s no more barrier to a comfortable, cozy ride between couples.

Authorities have backpedaled from their policy of requiring all motorcycle riders to install a plastic barrier between them, finally heeding public concerns over its absurdity.

Riders living in the same house such as couples are no longer required to use the barrier in Metro Manila and nearby provinces that reverted to the less stringent general community quarantine effective Wednesday, according to Police Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar.

Nonhousemates, however, should keep the backpack-like, Angkas-designed barrier, he said.

The lifting “is proof that the NTF (National Task Force) on COVID-19 has been heeding the concerns and suggestions of the public,’’ said Eleazar, commander of the Joint Task Force COVID Shield.

Up until Wednesday, the policy seemed to have been carved in stone.

For more news about the novel coronavirus click here.
What you need to know about Coronavirus.
For more information on COVID-19, call the DOH Hotline: (02) 86517800 local 1149/1150.

The Inquirer Foundation supports our healthcare frontliners and is still accepting cash donations to be deposited at Banco de Oro (BDO) current account #007960018860 or donate through PayMaya using this link.