MANILA – Malacañang said backriding on motorcycles will soon be allowed with the guidelines expected to be released by the National Task Force (NTF) on coronavirus disease 2019 response this week.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque announced over the weekend that motorcycle back-riding is already allowed “in principle” upon the approval of the requirements set by the technical working group.
“Pinapayagan na in principle ang back riding upon the approval of the requirements na ise-set ng technical working group,” Roque said during the Laging Handa briefing.
Roque added that departments of Transportation, Science and Technology, and Health; the Metro Manila Development Authority; and the Bureau of Philippine Standards were tasked to look for the “safest and effective” manner to ensure the safe back-riding amid the outbreak.
“Sila ay inatasan na mag-pulong at alamin ang pinakaligtas at pinaka-ebektibong paraan para mabawasan ang transmission sa back-riding sa mga motorsiklo,” Roque said.
President Rodrigo Duterte earlier said that he could not allow motorcycle back-riding because strict physical distancing cannot be observed.
Having a passenger on motorbikes remains prohibited in general community quarantine areas. Even couples are not allowed to ride together on motorcycles, with authorities concerned the proximity may lead to virus spread.
Motorcycle taxi services have recently proposed the use of especially designed plastic shields between the driver and passenger as a way to comply with health standards./PN
