CHR: Respect rights of motorcycle drivers

MANILA, Philippines – Following several street crimes involving perpetrators on board motorcycles, local governments in Metro Manila are pushing for ways to curb crime. The Quezon City government wants to require motorcycle drivers to wear a vest with their vehicles’ plate numbers printed on it. The city of Manila, meanwhile, wants to prohibit “riding-in-tandem” altogether. Motorcycle riders have cried discrimination over the proposed law, and no less than the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) doubts if prohibiting “riding-in-tandem” is a good idea. “Riding-in-tandem is not in itself a crime,” said CHR chairperson Etta Rosales. “We should not discriminate.” Rosales also reminded policemen to observe certain rights of motorcycle drivers when flagged at checkpoints. “Police lang dapat ang nagch-check point, hindi ‘yun military,” she said. “Bigyan mo ng karapatan, right to privacy, itong mga riding-in-tandem na ito.” The police clarified that they do not discriminate against motorcycle riders. The PNP also said it will intensify its Motorcycle Tactical Riders Unit and increase check points in the metro.