QC police arrest 14 ‘habal-habal’ drivers

March 19, 2020

The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) on Wednesday rounded up 14 habal-habal (motorcycle) riders during anti-colorum operations in the city.

Police Brigadier General Ronnie Montejo, Quezon City director, said despite the enhanced community quarantine which prohibits or suspends public or private transport, they received reports there are habal-habal riders who offer rides to commuters and charge them very unreasonable amount.

“This prompted us to conduct anti-colorum operations,” Montejo said.

According to Montejo, ten habal-habal riders were caught in Payatas Road, Barangay Payatas while four were nabbed in Commonwealth Avenue, Barangay Old Capitol Site.

“They were issued ordinance violation receipts while the motorcycles were impounded,” he said.

Montejo said riders will be charged with violation of Section 7 of Republic Act 4136 which states that (a) private passenger automobiles; (b) private trucks; and (c) private motorcycles, scooters, or motor wheel attachments shall not be used for hire under any circumstances and shall not be used to solicit, accept, or be used to transport passengers or freight for pay.

Montejo reiterated that under the enhanced community quarantine, these people which should have ‘no business’ to go out should stay at home.

“They did not only violate the law but are exposing themselves more to the dreaded COVID-19. Hence, we appeal again for the cooperation of everybody in these trying times,” he added. Ella Dionisio/DMS