Aside from barriers mounted on motorcycles, the National Task Force (NTF) against COVID-19 has approved another barrier design that can be used by couples riding together, its chairman said on Monday.
According to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, motorists can now use a barrier designed like a backpack and worn by the rider. The ‘special suit’ or backpack-type barrier designed by Angkas is now approved and can be used effective immediately.
Earlier this month, the government presented an approved barrier design from Bohol Gov. Arthur Yap, featuring a transparent divider between rider and passenger on a motorcycle. This type of barrier is mounted directly on the motorcycle with safety handles for the passenger.
Since government allowed backriding for couples last July 10, authorities mandated that both rider and passengers must present proof that they belong to the same household and should be separated by barriers aboard motorcycles.
Lorenzana, who also sits as NTF chairman, said that the backpack-type barrier designed by Angkas is safe and sturdy and will be vital in efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID19). He further clarified that as of the moment, only married couples or live-in partners living under the same household are allowed to ride in motorcycles together. – Doris Franche