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[av_heading heading=’‘ANNOYING AND HARMFUL’ Proposed ordinance seeks to regulate sound systems ‘ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=” subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=”]
BY GLENDA SOLOGASTOA
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ILOILO – A proposed ordinance seeks to regulate sound systems and other amplified audio devices. The goal is to curb unnecessary public disturbance – and even hearing impairments – due to the noise or loud sound emanating from these devices.
Part of the proposed ordinance read: “The playing or operating, or permitting the playing of amplified musical instruments, loudspeakers or other sound amplifying equipment shall only be allowed provided that by 10 p.m. the volume shall be lowered down and by 12 midnight it shall be turned off.”
The proposed ordinance is now with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan’s (SP) committee on public safety and order.
“We will conduct public hearings. We will invite sound system operators and even barangay captains,” said Provincial Board member Emmanuel Gallar, committee chairperson.
According to Provincial Board member Liecel Mondejar-Seville, proponent, sound beyond acceptable levels most especially during “unholy” hours brings serious public discomfort and thus inimical to public health and welfare.
“For example, may naga-karaoke sobra. Under the ordinance, pwede mo sawayon. Kon indi magpati, tawag pulis. Ang pulis na bahala magsaway sa ila,” said Gallar.
He, however, said his committee will also be cognizant of community “traditions.”
“During fiestas which are kaisa man lang sa isa katuig, karon kon utdon ta ang binayle asta lang alas dose, ti indi ang iban malipay,” said Gallar.
The proposed ordinance offered standards to determine violations. These are the following:
* volume and intensity of the noise
* proximity of the noise to residential sleeping facilities
* nature and zoning of the area within which the noise emanates
* density of inhabitation of the area within which the noise emanates
* duration of the noise
* whether the noise is recurrent, intermittent or constant
The proposed ordinance also set penalties for violations/
Any person, business establishment, group or organization violating the ordinance shall be punished by admonition and a fine of P1,000 for the first offense.
For the second offense, the fine is P2,000 plus imprisonment for period of not more than 10 days at the discretion of the court.
For the third offense, the fine is P5,000 plus imprisonment of 15 days./PN
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