Ordinance banning mask-wearing during protests deferred

CEBU, Philippines - Is it justified to arrest a motorcycle driver with a full-face helmet if he happens to be near a strike or any protest activity?

This was the question raised by Councilor Augustus Pe Jr., chairman of the Cebu City Council committee on peace and order, that led to the deferment of the final deliberation and approval of the ordinance proposed by Councilor Hilario Davide III.

Davide, acting on the instruction of mayor-on-leave Tomas Osmeña, had proposed an ordinance penalizing anybody caught covering his face within the vicinity of any picket or strike area. This ordinance also covers crash helmets.

But Pe said it is common for motorcycle drivers to stop near commotions or events like labor strikes and it might be unfair if they will be arrested.

Councilor Rodrigo “Bebot” Abellanosa also questioned some words in the proposed ordinance such as “faceless persons” which refers to persons who covers their faces during labor strikes.

 “Bitaw, mora’g mahulo’g nga kataw-anan ang termino nga faceless kay masabot man nga ang tawo walay nawong,” said one of the City Hall personnel who attended the session last Wednesday. Davide decided to move to next week’s session the deliberation of the issue so it will not delay the session that ended past 5 p.m.

Osmeña earlier explained that some bad elements and intruders posing as protesters in picket lines might make violence and it will be difficult for lawmen to identify them if they are masked.

Davide said he observed that some persons, either from the protesters or the management, cover their faces while they are at the strike area, prompting him sponsor the proposed ordinance.

The mayor hogged headlines last year after he went to the picket area at the Gaisano Capital South armed with his 9mm pistol and allegedly brandishing a shotgun. — Rene U. Borromeo/BRP   (THE FREEMAN)