Manila bans balaclavas, other face-covering headgear in public establishments

To strengthen security and reduce crime in Manila, the local government is enforcing the "Anti-Balaclava" Ordinance, which prohibits people from wearing anything that covers their faces, especially inside commercial, government, and other public establishments, or while away from a motorcycle.

- BY RICHIELYN CANLAS

On Nov. 3, Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso signed City Ordinance No. 9134, principally authored by Councilor Rosalino "Jhun" Ibay Jr., titled the "Anti-Balaclava and Other Face Covering Ordinance of the City of Manila."

"Upang mas mapalakas ang seguridad sa Maynila, ipinatutupad na ang Manila Anti-Balaclava Ordinance (To further strengthen security in Manila, the Manila Anti-Balaclava Ordinance is now being implemented)," the local government said on Saturday, Nov. 22.

The mayor said that the ordinance is intended to prevent criminals from taking advantage of situations where faces are covered, so that anyone committing a crime can be easily identified and held accountable.

The ordinance prohibits the wearing of balaclavas, helmets, face masks (except for health reasons), hoodies that cover the face, and any headgear that conceals one's identity inside commercial and government buildings, as well as when lowered or on standby while riding a motorcycle.