MDPPA Statement on Motorcycle Vest with Plate Issue

In the light of the call of the Quezon City Police District for all motorcycle riders including back riders traversing within the jurisdiction of Quezon City to wear vest with printed plate number of the motorcycle they are riding, we make known our position.

We are not against curbing lawlessness and crimes perpetrated by motorcycle riding criminals. We condemn unlawful acts done by these groups.

We acknowledge the problem of criminality and we are greatly saddened that the perpetrators use motorcycles as their vehicle of choice in implementing their criminal acts. This has tainted the representation of the general motorcycle riding community due to negative perception brought about by these motorcycle-related crimes, and hence, is now
We are not against implementation of measures to deter crimes by motorcycle-riding criminals. We are for fair, just, and expedient approach.

We recognize the mandate of the PNP to safeguard and protect the citizenry. Enforcement measures and their implementation should not, however, be oppressive or excessive but should only be reasonably sufficient at all times to meet or address a public necessity.

We are against implementing wearing of vest showing the plate number of the rider’s motorcycle because this is not a reasonably sufficient measure to curb motorcycle related crimes.

The wearing of vest with plate number does not appear to be a rational way of identifying riders with criminal intent from those who are simply using their motorcycles for their legitimate daily activities. A criminal would never wear a vest registered under his name in committing a crime but will resort to using replica or stolen vest prejudicing safety and security of the rightful owner. Aside from the foregoing, the cost is an additional burden to the riders.