'No group rides, no cycling w/o masks': Las Piñas to heighten apprehension of cyclist violators
The local government of Las Piñas city will heighten its monitoring and apprehension of cyclists violating minimum health protocols mandated by the government following photos from the Philippine Star over the weekend that showed cyclists in groups and without masks along C5 Extension.
"We do not allow that," Paul San Miguel, officer in charge of the Las Piñas public information office, told PhilSTAR L!fe when asked about the now viral photos.
San Miguel said there are usually police stationed along C5 extension — which during weekends has cyclists, joggers, and some street vendors — to enforce minimum health standards, such as wearing face masks and physical distancing. Cycling is allowed, as long as there is enough spacing, and everyone wears face masks.
"Dati pa nanghuhuli ang mga police sa lugar ng mga walang face masks," San Miguel said.
San Miguel added that the majority of those cycling along C5 extension during weekends are not even from Las Piñas.
When asked about the photographs taken by the Philippine Star, San Miguel said the incident happened only after the police stationed at the area went to patrol a different place.
"But because of this, the chief of police assured me that he will increase the number of police deployed to the area. Mas hihigpitan na ang pag-patrol," said San Miguel.
A joint administrative order from four government agencies regarding the promotion of active transportation during the pandemic stated that bicycle users “must wear face masks to decrease the chances of spreading COVID-19.” Physical distancing of one meter should be observed, according to the order.
In a press release by the Department of Health last month, it said that only face shields are not required, but cyclists should still wear masks and observe physical distancing.