Angkas says to release design of approved backpack-like shield for motorcycles

MANILA - Angkas said Tuesday it would release to the public the backpack-inspired motorcycle shield design approved by the country's coronavirus task force, as part of its contribution to curb the spread of the disease.

The government on Monday approved the plastic barrier design attached to the driver like a backpack and with handles on the lower part to reduce human contact, Angkas chief transport advocate George Royeca told ANC. 

With widely available materials, the shield would cost around P200 to P250 to make, he said. 

"This is our contribution to the existing pandemic and to curb the further transmission," Royeca said.

"The barrier is an added protection between both passengers. The idea here is really not just for couples, but eventually later on, if the quarantine measures are lifted then we'll be able to use this shield for everybody," he added.

Other advocates earlier proposed a barrier shield attached to the motorbike, which Cavite Governor Jonvic Remulla described as "dangerous, inconvenient, and does not make sense."

Motorcyce ride-hailing operations were suspended in March when the entire Luzon was placed under lockdown. The pilot run for motortaxis has expired. 

The Department of Health is studying a proposal on a "special suit" for motorcycle taxi drivers that would help to provide social distancing with the passenger, Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque earlier said.

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