It is a sad reality that many motorcycles still sport modified mufflers, commonly known as 'bora-bora,' which continue to disturb the peace in our communities.
In Sitio Sto. Niño, Barangay Quiot, Cebu City, this problem is very evident. Residents living along the road are direct victims of this incessant noise pollution. What is even more perplexing is that police conduct checkpoints almost every night near the entrance of Pleasant Homes in the neighboring barangay of Punta Princesa.
Our traffic enforcers do not need to carry a decibel meter or other sophisticated devices to prove that a motorcycle is loud. If the sound of the engine can still be heard from a distance of up to 50 meters, that is enough basis to apprehend the driver.
It is very clear that this violates Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, which strictly prohibits the replacement and use of noisy mufflers.
Why replace the original quiet muffler with a deafening version? Is it to show off? The painful truth is that these drivers have no conscience for the residents they pass by—people who need proper rest after a tiring day at work, or those working from home who need focus and a quiet environment. Owning a noisy motorcycle and not wearing a helmet as if they have government backing cannot be called 'cool.' It is not a talent either, because anyone can do it; others simply refrain to avoid causing trouble. If we talk about talent, I would rather appreciate a rider who can do a wheelie. But that should not be performed on a public highway as it has a high chance of causing accidents for other motorists if the maneuver fails.
We hope that the concerned government agencies will not stop apprehending these abusive motorists. They should not only wait at fixed checkpoints but also conduct mobile or surprise inspections inside remote barangay roads.
We must remember that every disruption of a simple citizen's sleep—especially the elderly who, once awakened from deep sleep, find it hard to go back to sleep—is a theft of their right to a comfortable and orderly life.
