SULTAN SA BARONGIS, Maguindanao del Sur — The local government of Sultan Sa Barongis has begun enforcing a stricter policy prohibiting motorcycle riders from wearing face coverings such as masks or bonnets while traveling along the municipality’s highways, a move officials say is aimed at improving security and deterring crime.
The policy stems from Municipal Ordinance No. 2025-94, recently approved by the Sangguniang Bayan and announced by Vice Mayor Prince Al-Jofner Angas Sr.. Under the ordinance, riders who are caught wearing items that conceal their identity while operating motorcycles on public roads within the municipality may face a fine of ₱2,500.
Local authorities said the measure forms part of the town’s broader efforts to strengthen peace and order, particularly amid concerns over crimes linked to “riding-in-tandem” suspects—motorcycle-riding individuals who often cover their faces to avoid identification during or after committing offenses.
According to the vice mayor’s office, the ordinance is intended to make it easier for law enforcement and the community to identify riders traveling through key roads in the municipality. Officials believe the visibility of riders’ faces could help discourage criminal activities and aid in investigations when incidents occur.
“The ordinance is a concrete action toward maintaining safety and order in our municipality,” the local government said in its public advisory announcing the new rule. Authorities emphasized that the measure is meant to protect residents and ensure a more secure environment in Sultan Sa Barongis.
Local officials also urged the public, particularly motorcycle riders and commuters, to cooperate with the implementation of the ordinance and follow the guidelines to avoid penalties.
However, some observers note that the effectiveness of the face-covering ban will likely depend on consistent enforcement, public compliance, and coordination between local officials and law enforcement units. In the coming days and weeks, authorities are expected to closely monitor the impact of the ordinance on crime prevention and community safety in the municipality.
If effectively implemented, local leaders hope the policy could serve as an additional deterrent against criminal activities and contribute to a more peaceful environment in Sultan Sa Barongis and across Maguindanao del Sur.