Cyclists in Valenzuela need not wear face shields

MANILA, Philippines — Cyclists passing through Valenzuela City are no longer required to wear face shields after the city government approved the exemption on Tuesday.

The local government said the executive order was issued following consultation with cyclists who experienced the hazards of wearing face shields while riding bikes.

The executive order signed by Valenzuela Mayor Rex Gatchalian added that the protective gear obstructs the view, makes breathing difficult, and hampers the vision, especially when the cyclist is sweating.

“So as not to impede mobility, productivity, and safety of the wearer, face shields may be [temporarily] lifted, set aside or removed where the wearing of the same hampers or causes [difficulty] to the biker while biking alone in Valenzuela City,” the order read. —Nikka G. Valenzuela