By Jennifer P. Rendon
In the absence of public transport, motorcycles are the most accessible mode of transportation for workers and the public in general as communities battle the threat of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
There’s nothing wrong with driving a motorcycle, after all, Police Colonel Paul Kenneth Lucas, Iloilo police director, said.
However, he announced Friday that motorcycle back riders will be accosted at checkpoints with the ongoing implementation of Enhanced Community Quarantine to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Lucas said back riders contradict physical distancing as advised by the World Health Organization to avoid COVID-19.
WHO urged the public to observe physical distancing as the virus is transmitted via droplets released when someone coughs or sneezes.
Lucas issued the warning after receiving several complaints from motorcycle riders who were denied access and apprehended for ferrying back riders.
And yes, “the prohibition includes even riders who are family members,” Lucas said.
FOOD PASS
Lucas also announced that couriers of basic goods and merchandise must still carry a “Food Pass” from the Regional Director of the Department of Agriculture in the area where the company is located.
He said couriers of goods have still to be checked at border checkpoints to see if they have Food Pass issued by the DA regional director.
Lucas, however, clarified that the checking procedure should be less stringent in order not to hamper the smooth passage of merchandise, especially the perishable goods.
He added that even with the Food Pass, the police can still apprehend couriers if the delivery van carries unauthorized passengers or those who have fever, and if the Food Pass bears a signature other than those who are authorized by the DA Memorandum Circular No. 7 issued on March 17, 2020.
Lucas made this clarification to resolve issues between food couriers and personnel manning the border checkpoints in the province.
