By Glazyl Y. Masculino
BACOLOD City – The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Norppo) has warned motorcycle riders to refrain from ferrying back riders lest they face charges.
Police Colonel Julian Entoma, Norppo director, said that motorcycle back riders will be totally banned in the province starting today, March 27, 2020, to ensure the safety of the people from the possible spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Entoma also appealed to the public, particularly those who drive motorcycles, to abide by the law while the entire province is under a state of calamity due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Entoma said that motorcycles used as public conveyance or locally known as “habal-habal” traveling in the streets of the city and different parts of the province are strictly prohibited to carry passengers during the community quarantine period.
He said that persons caught violating the order will be charged for violation of Republic Act 11332 or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act.
“This is part of our social distancing measures. I encourage everyone to cooperate and follow the guidelines set forth by the government to totally stop the disease from spreading putting everyone at risk. Remember that the best thing to do is to stay at home and be safe,” he added.
