The local government of Manila has prohibited the wearing of any headgear or face coverings inside government offices, commercial establishments, and public spaces in the city.
According to an announcement by the Manila Public Information Office on its social media page, Ordinance No. 9134 strictly bans helmets, face masks, balaclavas, caps, hoodies, and tinted visors while inside these areas.
Riders and passengers are also prohibited from wearing face-covering headgear when not on a motorcycle or while in standby mode in public areas such as streets, sidewalks, markets, parks, and parking lots.
Headgear is not allowed for riders or passengers within three meters of a motorcycle while performing activities like making repairs or buying from stores.
Violators may be fined if they refuse to remove their headgear when instructed by authorities, barangay officials, or security personnel. The penalties include ₱1,000 for the first offense, ₱3,000 for the second, and ₱5,000 for the third, with possible additional penalties of 15 days imprisonment and revocation of license for the third and subsequent violations.
However, exemptions exist, including situations during public health emergencies, individuals with serious medical conditions requiring face masks, and those required to wear turbans or head coverings for religious reasons.