Misunderstood ‘Balaclava Ordinance’

Dear Editor,

I am writing as a Manila resident and motorcycle rider who has noticed a lot of confusion online about the so-called “Balaclava Ordinance,” or City Ordinance 9134.

Many posts and comments claim that the city is now banning helmets or face protection even while riding, which has caused unnecessary panic among riders. I would like to help clarify this because the ordinance is being misunderstood.

As I’ve read it, the ordinance does not ban the wearing of motorcycle helmets or any protective gear while a rider is actually riding.

In fact, the ordinance itself clearly says that the restriction does not apply when the rider or passenger is “actively driving or moving.” National law also requires us to wear proper helmets, and nothing in this ordinance changes that.

The rule applies only after you get off your motorcycle, especially when you are within three meters of it — for example, when you stop to buy something at a store, use an ATM, fix the bike, wait by the roadside, or are parked in public areas.

In those situations, the city simply wants people to remove their face coverings so faces are visible. This is meant to discourage criminal activity, especially inside establishments or near places where many people and businesses operate.

I understand why the city wants to regulate masks and face-covering gear in public places, but I also think it’s important that the public knows the parameters of the ordinance.

It is not meant to punish law-abiding riders who are just following the helmet law. Many riders, including myself, were alarmed because of misinformation spreading on social media. Proper information helps everyone cooperate without fear of being unfairly penalized.

I also hope establishments will post the required notices, as the ordinance states, so people are not caught off guard. Clear and consistent communication will go a long way in avoiding misunderstanding and unnecessary confrontation.

Respectfully,

Paterno Santos Jr.

Tondo, Manila