MFRTA Reminds Motorcycle Drivers to Wear Full-Face Helmets

Compliance with Motorcycle Helmet Act Strengthened in Manolo Fortich

TANKULAN, Manolo Fortich — The Manolo Fortich Road and Traffic Administration (MFRTA) has reminded motorcycle drivers to comply with the use of full-face helmets to enhance road safety and ensure adherence to Republic Act No. 10054, otherwise known as the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.

“Effective immediately, bawal na ang mga habal-habal driver sa paggamit og nutshell helmet,” said Jim “Tata” Luton, Traffic Aide III of the MFRTA, during an interview on the Barug Manolo Fortich radio program on June 17, 2026.

Coordination with Partner Agencies Underway

According to Luton, the MFRTA has already sent communication letters to partner agencies and institutions, including BUSECO, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), encouraging their personnel who use motorcycles to wear full-face helmets while on the road.

The initiative forms part of the municipality's broader effort to strengthen compliance with existing road safety regulations and promote responsible driving practices.

Focus on Driver Compliance

The MFRTA clarified that its current priority is to achieve full compliance among motorcycle drivers in both the public and private transport sectors.

While the Motorcycle Helmet Act requires both drivers and back riders, or pillion passengers, to wear standard protective helmets, authorities acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding health and sanitation concerns related to helmets provided by habal-habal drivers.

As such, consideration may still be extended to passengers while policy discussions continue.

Under Republic Act No. 10054, all motorcycle riders and passengers traveling on roads and highways are required to wear standard protective helmets bearing a genuine Philippine Standard (PS) mark or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker.

Proposed Resolution Awaits Approval

Luton said a proposed resolution is currently under deliberation by the Sangguniang Bayan to address concerns related to helmet use, particularly among habal-habal passengers.

The MFRTA is awaiting the approval of the resolution and its corresponding implementing rules and regulations before full implementation can proceed.

Under the proposed measure, non-compliant drivers may face penalties, including a fine of ₱500 for the first offense. The implementation is also expected to cover hinterland barangays throughout the municipality.

Rules Apply to All Motorists Passing Through Manolo Fortich

The MFRTA further clarified that motorcycle drivers from outside Manolo Fortich who are merely passing through the municipality will not be exempt from the implementation of the policy.

Authorities emphasized that compliance with helmet regulations applies to all motorists using roads within the municipality's jurisdiction.

Prioritizing Road Safety

The MFRTA urged all motorcycle drivers to comply with helmet regulations, emphasizing that wearing proper protective gear remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injuries and save lives in the event of road accidents.

As the municipality continues to strengthen road safety measures, motorists are encouraged to practice responsible driving and observe traffic regulations for the safety of all road users.