Bacolod City Council Advances Ordinance to Curb Noisy Modified Mufflers

The Bacolod City Council has taken a significant step toward addressing urban noise pollution by approving on second reading the proposed "Ordinance Regulating the Use of Modified or Noisy Motor Vehicle Mufflers within the City of Bacolod." This legislative measure, authored by Councilor Caesar Distrito and co-authored by Councilor Jason Villarosa, aims to mitigate the growing public concern over excessive vehicular noise that has been disrupting peace, public order, and community well-being across various neighborhoods in the city.

Addressing Long-Standing Complaints

Councilor Caesar Distrito, who chairs the City Council committee on human resource and development, emphasized that the ordinance is a direct response to persistent complaints from residents. He stated that it aligns with the city's fundamental duty to protect public welfare. "This ordinance responds to a very real and persistent concern of our constituents," Distrito explained. "Excessive and unnecessary vehicular noise affects public health, safety, and the quality of life in our communities. Through this measure, the City of Bacolod affirms its commitment to maintaining peace, order, and a livable urban environment."

Distrito further highlighted that noise pollution should not be dismissed as a trivial issue. "Noise pollution has serious implications for mental health, rest, and public order. Regulation is necessary to balance individual freedoms with the collective right of our residents to a peaceful and healthy environment," he added.

Key Provisions and Enforcement Mechanisms

The ordinance introduces several critical provisions to tackle the problem effectively:

Prohibition of altered, open-pipe, straight-pipe, or excessively loud mufflers.
Authorization for roadside inspections and noise testing by enforcement agencies.
Confiscation of illegal mufflers and vehicle impoundment in warranted cases.

Enforcement will be carried out by the Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department, the Bacolod City Police Office, and duly deputized personnel. These authorities are empowered to issue citation tickets and ensure compliance with national noise emission standards, thereby strengthening regulatory oversight.

Promoting Responsible Road Use

Co-author Councilor Jason Villarosa clarified that the ordinance is designed to promote responsible road use and community safety rather than targeting motorists unfairly. "This measure is not anti-motorist. It is pro-community," Villarosa asserted. "Responsible driving includes being mindful of the impact our vehicles have on others, especially seniors, students, workers, and families. This ordinance encourages discipline, accountability, and respect on our roads."

To ensure fairness, the ordinance includes specific exemptions for:

Emergency vehicles.
Factory-installed standard mufflers.
Certified compliant aftermarket systems.
Vehicles designed for sports competition or motor shows.
Motorcycles with engine displacement of 400cc and above, provided they comply with applicable standards.

Penalties and Administrative Procedures

Villarosa disclosed the administrative fines associated with violations:

Drivers and vehicle owners face fines ranging from P1,500 to P3,000.
Business establishments or mechanics found installing non-compliant mufflers are subject to fines from P2,500 to P10,000.

Additionally, confiscated mufflers will be inventoried and disposed of after 30 days in accordance with Commission on Audit regulations, ensuring proper handling and transparency in the enforcement process.

This legislative initiative reflects Bacolod City's proactive approach to enhancing urban livability and addressing environmental nuisances that impact daily life. As the ordinance progresses, it is expected to foster a quieter, more orderly community while upholding the rights and well-being of all residents.