BONTOC, Mountain Province – In response to the public’s mounting complaint on the increasing number of motorcycles and tricycles without mufflers or silencers, thereby emitting excessive sounds, the Bontoc Local Government Unit (LGU) passed an ordinance against these causes of public nuisance.
Before the passage of the ordinance, local officials received numerous complaints from residents on the disturbance and stress caused by the noise of open pipe mufflers along the streets of Bontoc, especially during night time.
Accordingly, some youngsters and riders, whizzing in their modified motorcycles that create a loud noise are troubling the residents, especially during the night causing health problems to the ailing and senior citizens.
According to health experts, excessive noise pollution leads to several health disorders such as hypertension, irritation, and sleep disturbance. Accordingly, exposure to sudden loud noise can even cause temporary hearing loss for a few minutes.
Thus, prioritizing the health and wellness of the public, Bontoc Mayor Franklin Odsey approved Municipal Ordinance No. 334, s. 2021, passed by the Sangguniang Bayan. The ordinance does not only prohibit the use of motorcycles and tricycles without mufflers or silencers but also penalizes any person violating the ordinance.
Any person caught operating or driving a motorcycle or a tricycle without mufflers or silencers shall pay the prescribed penalty of P500 for the first offense, P1, 000 for the second offense, and P2, 500 for the third and succeeding offenses.
It was stipulated in the ordinance that failure on the part of the violator to pay the corresponding fine to the Office of the Municipal Treasurer shall be a basis for the apprehending officer to impound the motorcycle or tricycle. The motorcycle or tricycle shall only be released if the violator presents proof of full payment.
The ordinance was authored by Sangguniang Kabataan Chairperson Sherwin Chamkas and Association of Barangay Captains President Jimmy Cherwaken, and was co-sponsored by Sangguniang Bayan member Jerome Tudlong, Jr.
The ordinance will take effect after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation.
