New anti-face concealment ordinance in Paranaque now in effect
In November 2025, the Manila City Council passed Ordinance No. 9134, also known as the “Anti-Balaclava and Other Face Covering Ordinance.” Principally authored by Councilor Rosalino “Jhun” Ibay Jr., the measure prohibits the use of motorcycle helmets, masks, balaclavas, face coverings, hoodies, caps, or any headgear that conceals a person’s identity inside commercial, government, or other establishments when the wearer is not on a motorcycle.
Now, Parañaque City has followed suit with City Ordinance No. 2025-30 (69), Series of 2025, also known as the “Anti-Face Concealment Ordinance of Parañaque City,” authored by Councilor Pablo Olivarez II and signed by Mayor Edwin Olivarez on November 13, 2025.
Up to PHP 5,000 fine, jail time
Under the ordinance, it is illegal to wear motorcycle helmets, bonnets, ski masks, balaclavas, full-tint face shields, construction helmets, industrial masks, or other items that conceal the face inside commercial, government, educational, financial, and other public establishments.
The ban also applies to individuals who have dismounted from their motorcycles, including those within three meters of a stopped or parked motorcycle in areas such as roads, sidewalks, alleys, parking lots, markets, parks, and designated crime-prone zones.
Additionally, the ordinance prohibits refusal to remove face-concealing headgear when requested by police officers, barangay officials, or security personnel.
Violators of the ordinance may face a fine of PHP 1,500 and a written warning for the first offense; a PHP 3,000 fine and/or at least eight hours of community service for the second offense; and for subsequent violations, a PHP 5,000 fine and/or imprisonment of up to 15 days, at the discretion of the court.
The ordinance will be enforced by the Parañaque City Police, barangay officials, and the Traffic and Parking Management Office. There are exemptions for medical or health-related purposes during officially declared public health emergencies, recognized religious or cultural practices, and motorcyclists who are actively riding on public roads and highways.
