Mandaue City Authorities Seize 28 Motorcycles in Swift Crackdown on Modified Mufflers
In a targeted enforcement action, the Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (Team) impounded a total of 28 motorcycles equipped with modified mufflers during a one-hour operation on February 24, 2026. Hyll Retuya, head of Team, confirmed that the crackdown was not initially planned but emerged from a scheduled lecture for Land Transportation Office (LTO)-deputized personnel, turning into a practical application of traffic laws.
Unplanned Operation Leads to Multiple Apprehensions
Retuya explained that the operation evolved spontaneously during a lecture session. "On February 24, 2026, it was a one-time, big-time operation. That was not part of the plan. I was supposed to give a lecture to the LTO-deputized personnel, but when we went out, we saw an opportunity to make it practical, which led to the apprehensions," he stated. The collaborative effort involved personnel from the LTO, Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO), Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU), and Team, converging to enforce regulations effectively.
Within just one hour, authorities apprehended 28 motorcycles, all cited specifically for having modified mufflers, with a focus on mono-type models. "All in all, within a span of one hour, we apprehended 28 motorcycles for modified mufflers," Retuya added, highlighting the efficiency of the joint operation.
Legal Basis and Enforcement Protocols
The apprehensions were grounded in violations of Republic Act No. 4136 and relevant LTO joint administrative orders. Retuya emphasized that only motorcycles with non-stock or altered exhaust systems were targeted. "Our basis is the national law. If the muffler is stock or original and unmodified, it is free to go. Stock means the original pipe that has not been replaced or modified," he clarified. He further noted that only LTO-deputized personnel or holders of a Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP) are authorized to conduct such operations and issue citations under national law.
The impounded motorcycles were taken to the Team facility, where impoundment serves as part of the penalty. Retuya detailed that while no additional citations were issued beyond towing-related documentation, the impoundment itself constitutes a punishment. "Impoundment is part of the punishment. Our apprehensions are based on TOP issuance, and the impoundment is done here at Team, which is why there is still a citation due to the impounding," he explained.
Penalties and Compliance Requirements for Violators
Violators face a financial penalty of P5,000, payable to the LTO. Before making this payment, owners are required to remove and surrender the modified muffler at the Team facility. "Before they pay, they must first remove the muffler here. One of the requirements is to surrender the modified muffler," Retuya stated.
After settling the fine, owners must obtain an LTO clearance signed by a regional director and present it to Team. Additionally, they must reinstall the original exhaust pipe and undergo an inspection by the Mandaue Business Inspection Center (MBIC) to ensure compliance with noise level standards, which must not exceed 99 decibels. "I require two things: the LTO clearance and the MBIC certificate confirming the motorcycle does not exceed 99 decibels," Retuya emphasized.
Furthermore, owners are obligated to pay towing and storage fees amounting to P500 before their motorcycles can be released. Retuya acknowledged that this process may be inconvenient for violators but stressed its necessity. "Enforcement is necessary to uphold national regulations and reduce excessive motorcycle noise in the community," he concluded, underscoring the importance of adhering to traffic laws for public safety and order.
