Negros’ San Carlos City bans use of full-face helmets

Negros Occidental’s San Carlos City is prohibiting the use of full-faced helmets while driving motorcycles in an effort to prevent crimes. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

BACOLOD CITY — The mayor of San Carlos City in Negros Occidental has prohibited the use of full-faced helmets while driving motorcycles in an effort to prevent crimes.

Mayor Renato Gustilo issued Executive Order No. 89, which mandates the use of half-face protective helmets while driving within the city proper and limits the driving speed of motorists up to 40 kilometers per hour.

The Feb. 29 order takes effect immediately.

Gustilo also said motorcycle riders have to remove their helmets when inspected by authorities manning the checkpoints.

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The order states that the wearing of helmets by motorcycle riders is required from Sancaville Subdivision in Barangay Rizal to the Kalingling Bridge going outside San Carlos City.

Gustilo said he wants to prevent drive-by shooting involving persons wearing helmets and other face coverings.

The San Carlos City police had filed three counts of frustrated murder complaints against a job order employee of the Department of Public Works and Highways for hurling a grenade at a coffee shop that resulted in the injury of three people and damage to two vehicles on Feb. 27.

The suspect was on board a motorcycle and wearing a helmet.

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A 75-year-old store owner, her 42-year-old son, and a 34-year-old female store attendant were injured in the attack.

The windshield of black Mitsubishi Xpander of a 55-year-old policeman was also damaged from the incident.

Lt. Col. Nazer Canja, San Carlos City police chief, said the suspect was identified by a person privy to the crime and was arrested at his residence on the same day.