The Manila city government has enacted a new ordinance banning balaclavas, face-covering hoodies, and other headgear that conceal a person’s identity in public, commercial, and government spaces as part of efforts to enhance public safety.

The Manila Anti-Balaclava Ordinance prohibits wearing helmets, masks, balaclavas, or any face-covering inside commercial establishments, government offices, and other public facilities.

The ban also applies to individuals dismounting from motorcycles within three meters of the vehicle or when standing in public areas such as sidewalks, parks, parking lots, markets, and alleys.

Mayor Isko Moreno explained the rationale for the ordinance during his Yorme’s Hour program on November 14, saying, “Yun po'y iniiwasan natin upang hindi gamitin ng mga tulisan at tulonges yung ganyang senaryo. Kasi po'y pinangangalagaan natin ang kapakanan at kaligtasan ng higit na nakararami at mapanagot natin sa lalong madaling panahon upang makilala itong mga posibling suspect of a crime or a crime na kinommit. Eh mapapanagot natin sila kaagad.”

According to the Manila Public Information office, the ordinance includes specific exemptions, including:

• Use of face masks during public health emergencies as mandated by the DOH or IATF.
  
  

• Motorcycle riders in motion or temporarily stopped at traffic lights or road signs.
  
  

• Law enforcement officers performing official duties, particularly during emergencies or hot pursuit operations.
  
  

• Individuals with serious medical conditions requiring mask use.
  
  

• Religious exemptions, including those wearing turbans or other faith-based headgear.

Offenders face fines and possible jail time, escalating with repeated violations:

• First offense: ₱1,000
  
  

• Second offense: ₱3,000
  
  

• Third and subsequent offenses: ₱5,000, possible 15-day imprisonment, and recommendation for driver’s license revocation by the LTO

Public Reaction

The ordinance has sparked public debate. Supporters argue it is a necessary safety measure to prevent crimes committed by individuals concealing their identity. Critics, however, warn that it could be exploited by authorities for corruption, such as demanding money from motorcycle riders under the guise of enforcement.

_{Netizens react to new Anti-Balaclava ordinance in Manila. Photo screen grabbed from Manila Public Information Office / Facebook.}

City officials emphasized that the ordinance is intended to protect public safety while respecting legitimate health, religious, and operational exceptions.