Penalties await violators of a city ordinance banning loud noises from videokes, karaokes, and other sound systems that can disturb children in their studies.

Regulation Ordinance no. 2020-109 or the Unnecessary Noise Prohibition of 2020 that prohibits the “use and operation of sound systems, videoke and karaoke machines, loud audio/sound systems that might create unnecessary noise from Monday to Saturday starting 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. until the state of calamity and state of national emergency are lifted in the Philippines”.

It was passed by the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) on second and final reading during its regular session on November 17.

“We know that our homes are an extension of our schools due to the new normal. We need to adjust and that is why we have to support our students and our teachers by giving conducive learning (environment) for learners,” Councilor Lady Julie Grace L. Baronda, sponsor of the ordinance, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Wednesday.

She said while penalties are quite heavy, yet it has to be implemented otherwise violations will just continue.

The ordinance specifically prohibits the use of instruments and amplifiers in public streets or roadsides. Also, sounds with volumes that “annoy the quiet and comfort of a reasonable person of normal sensitivities in any dwelling or residence”.

Section 5 of the ordinance states that any person violating the ordinance shall pay the fine of PHP2,000 or corresponding imprisonment, or both at the discretion of the court.

Meanwhile, establishments in videoke business shall “provide effective soundproofing of their establishments to maintain the tolerable noise level outside their establishments”.

It should be complied with based on the schedule provided by the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO).

Their sound device should not be heard beyond 50 feet of the establishments.

Non-compliant establishments will be meted with PHP500 fine per day after the deadline set by the BPLO for soundproofing and business suspension for seven days.

Failure to comply after a thorough investigation will result in the revocation of their business permit.

Exempted from the ordinance are activities of government agencies and emergency cases that will have to make use of sirens and other instruments in the conduct of official duties.

Baronda said the ordinance takes effect after publication.

Village watchmen or barangay officials may approach concerned individuals or establishments or they may call members of the Philippine National Police to intercede. (PNA)