Manila Implements Ban on Face-Concealing Headgear in Public Spaces

New Ordinance Takes Effect in Manila

The City of Manila, Philippines, has officially implemented a ban on wearing any headgear that conceals the face in public places and establishments. The measure, formalized under Ordinance No. 9134, also known as the 'Anti-Balaclava Ordinance,' was approved by Mayor Francisco 'Isko Moreno' Domagoso on November 3, 2025, with enforcement commencing around November 23-24, 2025.

The Manila Public Information Office stated that the ordinance aims to 'deter criminal activities and assist law enforcement agencies in the prevention and investigation of crimes by regulating the use of motorcycle helmets and other face-concealing headgear in public establishments.' This initiative specifically targets crimes such as robberies and snatching, which are frequently perpetrated by individuals on motorcycles.

Scope and Prohibited Items

The ban applies to a range of items that obscure facial features and identity. These include:

• Helmets
• Face masks (unless medically necessary)
• Balaclavas or ski masks
• Caps
• Hoodies
• Tinted visors
• Bonnets
• Bandanas
• Handkerchiefs

The prohibition extends to government, commercial, and public establishments, as well as all public areas, including streets, sidewalks, markets, parks, and parking facilities.

A significant focus of the new regulation is on motorcycle riders and passengers. They are now forbidden from wearing face-covering headgear when they are off their motorcycle or while in standby mode in public areas, even if within three meters of their vehicle for tasks like purchasing items or performing minor repairs. Individuals are required to remove their headgear when instructed by law enforcement personnel, barangay officials, security guards, or other authorized government representatives.

Exemptions and Penalties

The ordinance includes several crucial exemptions to accommodate various circumstances:

• During public health emergencies when face masks are recommended or mandated by the Department of Health (DOH) or an interagency task force.
• For motorcycle riders in motion or those temporarily stopped due to traffic lights, road signs, or when hailed by traffic enforcers.
• Law enforcement personnel on official duty, particularly during emergency or 'hot pursuit' operations.
• Individuals with serious illnesses or comorbidities that necessitate the wearing of face masks.
• Persons with religious exemptions, such as those wearing turbans or other faith-based headgear.

Violators of Ordinance No. 9134 face escalating penalties. A first offense incurs a fine of ₱1,000 (approximately $17 USD). A second offense will result in a ₱3,000 fine (approximately $51 USD). For the third and succeeding offenses, individuals will be fined ₱5,000 (approximately $85 USD), may face up to 15 days of imprisonment, and could have their driver's license recommended for revocation.

Public Reaction

The ordinance has drawn attention from various groups. The youth organization Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan (SPARK) criticized the measure, labeling it 'an infringement on basic human rights' and suggesting it 'criminalizes the basic activities of ordinary citizens.' SPARK expressed concerns that 'vague and discretionary clauses' within the ordinance could potentially lead to profiling, harassment, and arbitrary stops by authorities. The group argued that effective peace and order should stem from community-focused reforms rather than punitive ordinances targeting ordinary citizens.