PNP-HPG: Back-riding policy violators may be arrested starting this weekend

The Philippine National PoliceHighway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) said it will only warn and not apprehend those found violating the guidelines of the back-riding policy during its first day of implementation on Friday, July 10.

“Warning lang. Hindi pa tayo manghuhuli. Although hahanapan natin sila ng mga protective shields (We will only warn them. We won’t apprehend them. Although we will check whether they have protective shields),” PNP HPG Director P/Brig. Gen Eliseo Cruz told DZBB.

Cruz said riders will be

warned if they do not have protective shields or if they fail to present documents.

The PNP HPG director said authorities will ask riders for identification cards or documents which can prove that they are married or are live-in partners.

Cruz said riders can present original copies of their marriage contract or a barangay certification stating that they live in one household. Riders can also present photos of their wedding as proof, according to Cruz.

After Friday’s dry run, Cruz said the PNP HPG will strictly enforce the back-riding policy and will start

apprehending violators.

“Maaring bukas po ay tuloy-tuloy na ang pag huli natin (We will probably start apprehending violators tomorrow [Saturday]),” he said.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government announced on July 9 that back-riding among married couples or live-in partners will be allowed starting July 10.

DILG Secretary Eduardo Año said violators will be charged.