The National Task Force (NTF) against Covid-19 has set more rules for motorcycle driver and back rider.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año on Monday said back-riders will be asked to present documents at quarantine control points or to law enforcers as proof that they are indeed a couple.

He said a married couple should have the same last name and for common-law partners, they must share the same address.

He said married couples should bring copies of their marriage certificate and present IDs if asked by law enforcers.

The NTF has approved the motorcycle back-riding using a prototype barrier but allowed only for husbands and wives, common-law couples, and live-in partners.

Año said a prototype design submitted by Bohol Governor Arthur Yap was adopted by the National Task Force for Covid-19.

He said despite allowing back rides for couples, the public must still know the proper protocols by the IATF which includes the installation of protective barriers in the motorcycle.

He also said the policies on wearing face masks in public will be strictly implemented by authorities.

“Only couples are allowed. Pwede hulihin husband and wife kapag walang barrier. May grace period pa para makagawa sila ng barriers (Husband and wife can be apprehended if there is no barrier. They still have grace period to place barrier in their motorcycles). The Joint Task Force Covid Shield will recommend the grace period,” he said.

Violators would face charges for violations of Republic Act (RA) 11332 or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health. Events of Public Health Concern Act, particularly Section 9 (e) or non-cooperation of persons and entities affected by health events.

On the other hand, those not wearing helmets may be held liable for violation of Republic Act 10054 or the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009 and local ordinances that impose fines for violators. (PNA)