It’s Official: DILG Says Motorcycle Barriers No Longer Needed for APORs Living in Same Household

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) today said that in areas under the General Community Quarantine, the National Task Force COVID-19 has adopted a policy effective today to allow riders living in the same house not to use a motorcycle barrier anymore so long as the back rider is an APOR (Authorized Person Outside of Residence).

DILG Undersecretary and Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said that those living in the same household should show IDs with the same address as proof to Quarantine Control Points or to police officers conducting random checks on motorists. “Valid ID showing that both riders live in the same residence will be accepted by the Philippine National Police and traffic enforcers. The back rider must be an APOR while the driver may or may not be an APOR,” he said.

He also said that police officers will also require proof that the back-rider is an APOR like a valid ID or certificate of employment or other similar document.

For riders, however, not living in the same house, they must use the Angkas designed barriers or the other approved barriers of the National Task Force COVID-19. He also said that the motorcycle must be privately owned and not for hire.

He added that both riders (driver and back rider) must wear face masks and full-face helmets at all times while back-riding to ensure compliance with minimum health standards.

Approved Persons Outside of Residence (APOR) are individuals who are in government or those allowed to work in industries permitted to operate under the guidelines of the IATF. A full list of these industries has been released by the Department of Trade and Industry.

Malaya also said in areas under MECQ, the city or municipal mayor have the discretion to adopt or implement these guidelines depending on the situation in their localities.*