CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The City Government of San Fernando and the local police will strictly implement the backriding policy which requires motorcycle riders to install barriers starting Monday, July 27, 2020.
The City of San Fernando Police Station and City Public Order and Coordinating Office (CPOSCO) conducted “Oplan Sita” on Thursday, an initial step towards the strict implementation of health and road safety protocols among the transportation sector.
The enforcement agencies inspected all modes of transportation passing along Jose Abad Santos Avenue to ensure they are following the guidelines set by the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
On Thursday alone, “Oplan Sita” along Jose Abad Santos Avenue netted some 80 individuals for violations of the Inter-Agency Task Force Bayanihan Act and traffic laws.
Lieutenant Colonel Paul Gamido, San Fernando chief of police, specifically warned motorcycle vehicles to install protective barriers following the advisory of the Department of Interior and Local Government(DILG) that allowed backriding for husbands and wives, common-law couples and live-in partners.
Based on the guidelines of DILG advisory, motorists sharing a ride should present valid IDs as proof that they fall on either of cited categories as partners.
A safety barrier must also be placed in between the driver and passenger, who should also observe minimum public health standards set forth by the Department of Health, such as the wearing of face mask and other relevant protective personal equipment.
Violators would face charges based on the Republic Act 11332, or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act, particularly its Section 9 (e) or non-cooperation of persons and entities affected by health events.
Meanwhile, Louie Clemente, CPOSCO officer-in-charge, urged motorists to observe all road-safety measures during their rides, such as proper use of prescribed motorcycle safety headwear or crash helmets.