Motorcycle riders have until Sunday (July 19) to install the barriers prescribed by the government in allowing back-riding.

In a press statement Tuesday, Joint Task Force Covid Shield commander, Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said riders may choose between the prototype designed by the Bohol provincial government and the design submitted by ride-hailing firm Angkas, which were approved by the National Task Force (NTF) against Covid-19.

Eleazar said he had already coordinated with the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa to task those supervising and manning the quarantine control points to disseminate the information about the grace period for riders and the full implementation of the policy on July 20.

Eleazar said the grace period aims to give motorcycle riders enough time to comply with the policy, which was also agreed upon during his consultation with PNP Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) director, Brig. Gen. Eliseo Cruz, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) general manager Jojo Garcia and Angkas chief transport advocate George Royeca.

“As per Secretary of the Interior and Local Government and NTF against Covid-19 Vice Chairman Eduardo Año, we will continue monitoring and warning those without barrier while citing or apprehending those with other violations,” Eleazar said.

The Angkas model is worn by the motorcycle drivers and weighs approximately one kilo while Bohol’s design is attached to the motorcycle.

Royeca said the barrier is “rigid but flexible upon impact” and the thin durable plastic sheet can survive massive force without shattering and shaking.

“The set of rules for motorcycle back-riding is a balance between safety and the necessity of transportation. Our motorists have long requested for this and now that it was finally granted, please do not abuse it,” said Eleazar.

The government allowed motorcycle back-riding for couples starting July 10 over public clamor due to limited public transportation.

Aside from installing physical barriers and wearing of face masks and helmets, motorcycle riders are also required to present proof that they are married or live-in partners.

Married couples should have the same last name while common-law partners must have the same address in their IDs to be presented to law enforcers. (PNA)