BACOLOD City — Bacolod City officials are seeking to address growing public concerns over excessive vehicular noise that disrupts the peace and safety of local communities.
During last week’s regular session of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP), members approved on first reading a proposed ordinance by Councilor Caesar Distrito, co-authored by Councilor Jason Villarosa, aimed at regulating the use of modified or excessively loud motor vehicle mufflers within the city.
Distrito emphasized the importance of the measure in ensuring the welfare and tranquility of residents. “This ordinance is long overdue. The people of Bacolod have endured years of disturbance from excessively loud and modified mufflers. This measure is our firm and decisive step to restore peace in our neighborhoods and to protect the health and well-being of our citizens,” he said.
The proposed ordinance prohibits the use of altered, open-pipe, straight-pipe, or excessively loud mufflers. It also authorizes roadside inspections, noise tests, confiscation, and impoundment of non-compliant vehicles when necessary.
Enforcement will be carried out by the Bacolod Traffic and Transport Management Department (BTTMD), the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), and deputized personnel empowered to issue citation tickets, confiscate illegal mufflers, and ensure compliance with national noise emission standards.
“Noise pollution is not a minor issue—it affects mental health, sleep, and public order. With this ordinance, Bacolod is making it clear that the right to a peaceful and livable environment must always come first,” Distrito added.
Villarosa said the ordinance promotes community safety and responsible road behavior, while Distrito clarified that the measure is not against motorists but aims to safeguard the welfare of residents. “Everyone deserves to live in a peaceful environment, free from unnecessary and harmful noise. This ordinance promotes responsibility, respect, and discipline on the road,” he explained.
Exemptions include emergency vehicles, factory-installed standard mufflers, certified compliant aftermarket systems, and vehicles designed for sports competitions or motor shows.
Administrative fines under the ordinance range from P1,500 to P3,000 for drivers and vehicle owners, and P2,500 to P10,000 for business establishments or mechanics installing non-compliant mufflers. Confiscated items will be inventoried and disposed of after 30 days in accordance with Commission on Audit (COA) regulations./PN
