DOTr discouraging motorcycle backriding

To enforce social distancing, DOTr is discouraging backriding

As part of the nationwide prescribed social distancing measures of the Department of Health (DOH) to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) allows the use of motorcycles during the community quarantine period but is discouraging backriders or pillions.

Due to the nature of the motorcycle and its limited capacity to only carry two passengers in close proximity, the DOTr recommends that motorcycles should only be used by a single individual, instead of a rider and pillion. Social distancing dictates that individuals practice maintaining a 1 (one) meter radius from the next person at all times.

This recommendation comes at the heels of the recent nationwide suspension of the Motorcycle Taxi Pilot Study and Grab’s suspension of GrabShare group rides from its ride-hailing service. The moves were made to reduce the likelihood of passengers coming into close proximity with partner-drivers, partner-riders, and other passengers.

To summarize, riding a motorcycle during community quarantine is allowed. Having a backrider is not.