The PNP Highway Patrol Group started implementing a stricter adherence of motorists to Republic Act 10054 or Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009 in Puerto Princesa today, September 27, 2021, because of the increase of motorcycle accidents.
PNP-HPG Palawan Assistant Team Leader PLT Wilson Nagales said they are continuously campaigning and reminding the motorists to wear the appropriate helmet as prescribed by the law.
“Tuloy-tuloy naman ang kampaniya namin regarding sa pagsuot ng standard helmet… hindi lang po sa helmet pati na rin po sa ibang traffic violations…siyempre, sa ngayon po na medyo tumataas ‘yung aksidente sa motorcycle pati sa ibang motor vehicle na involved sa ibang aksidente. Siyempre ngayon kailangan natin sundin ang batas na RA 10054, ito ‘yung motorcycle helmet act of 2009,” Nagales explains.
“Matagal na po ang pinapatupad ang batas na yan. Kumbaga sa ano sila na rin [ang] may pagkukulang na hindi sumusunod sa batas,” he added.
He also reminds the public that they are doing this as well for the safety of motorcycle drivers and passengers.
“Sundin lang po natin ang batas para po hindi kayo mahuli, yan din po ay para sa safety din po ninyo habang kayo ay nagmomotorsiklo,” he added.
In an interview with Palawan Daily, a motorist said he wishes that the government would provide ample time for everyone to buy a standard helmet, especially since everyone is struggling financially.
“Wala na nga pambili ng bigas…ibibili ko na lang ng standard helmet. Sana bigyan ng ilang linggo pang konswelo, hindi naman lahat makakabili agad,” he said
Meanwhile, according to the OIC of the Land Transportation Office Antonia Dela Cruz, fines for not wearing a helmet or the standard helmet are:
First offense – P1,510 Second offense – P3,010 Third Offense -P5,010 Fourth offense – P10,010
Republic Act No. 10054 or the “Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009” states that, “All motorcycle riders, including drivers and back riders, shall at all times wear standard protective motorcycle helmets while driving…”.
Only tricycle drivers are exempted from the law.