Anti Riding-in-Tandem: Concealed Faces Now Banned in Manila

As we continue to grapple with peace and order concerns, particularly crimes committed by “riding-in-tandem” assailants, the City of Manila has enacted a new measure targeting face-covering apparel that conceals identity in public spaces.

The Manila City Council has approved Ordinance No. 9134, or the “Anti-Balaclava and Other Face Covering Ordinance of the City of Manila,” authored by Councilor Rosalino “Jhun” Ibay Jr. The ordinance prohibits wearing motorcycle helmets, masks, balaclavas, hoodies, caps, or any headgear that hides a person’s identity inside commercial, government, or other establishments.

The ban extends to public areas, including roads, alleys, sidewalks, markets, and parking spaces. Riders must remove their helmets or face coverings once they have dismounted or are in standby mode. This means even brief activities, such as buying from a sari-sari store, withdrawing from an ATM, or repairing a motorcycle, require riders to uncover their faces.

Violators will face escalating penalties: ₱1,000 for the first offense, ₱3,000 and up to 8 hours of community service for the second, and ₱5,000 and/or up to 15 days in jail for the third, along with a recommendation for driver’s license revocation.

There are exemptions: riders may wear helmets while driving, and face coverings are permitted during public health emergencies, for law enforcement duties, medical reasons, or religious practices.

Private establishments are also mandated to post visible signs informing the public about the ordinance to ensure awareness and compliance throughout the city.

For the full context of the ordinance, read it HERE.

What are your thoughts on this new ordinance? Should the city focus more on improving police visibility and enforcement rather than restricting face coverings, especially now that we’re in flu season, when masks remain essential for health protection?