Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindi Chan has issued a firm directive for the strict and long-overdue enforcement of city ordinances regulating late-night videoke sessions and public drinking. This move comes in response to persistent complaints from several barangays regarding noise disturbances that disrupt community peace.
Council Resolution Backs Crackdown on Noise Pollution
The mayor's order is supported by a resolution from City Councilor Joseph Pangutangan, dated November 19, 2025. The resolution urges the executive department and all barangays to fully implement existing rules on noise control and public order. It further mandates the Philippine National Police (PNP), the City Traffic Management System (CTMS), tourism police, and barangay captains to ensure these laws are upheld.
The comprehensive enforcement will also cover ordinances maintaining quiet zones around hospitals, churches, schools, and courts. Additionally, it will regulate outdoor disco events and similar activities, prohibiting them from operating past 1:00 a.m..
Existing Laws and Specific Prohibitions
The city has at least two key ordinances that will be activated under this crackdown. City Ordinance 117-2002 and City Ordinance 226 explicitly ban karaoke, videoke, and similar sound machines from operating beyond 10:00 p.m..
"We will strengthen the implementation of the ordinance," Mayor Chan wrote on her Facebook page on Sunday, December 7, 2025. She emphasized that the cut-off time must be followed "to avoid trouble among neighbors" and to ensure workers and students can rest properly at night.
Chan encouraged residents to report violations directly to their barangay officials or by dialing the 911 hotline, which will serve as the primary channel for enforcement. The implementation will remain largely complaint-driven, as noise issues frequently arise within residential sitios rather than commercial areas.
Expanded Crackdown on Modified Motorcycles
Beyond targeting late-night singing, the city administration will also launch a crackdown on motorcycles using altered or "bora-bora" mufflers. This action will be pursued under City Ordinance 13-212-2016, aimed at preventing unnecessary and excessive noise, especially during nighttime.
Installing an improper muffler—such as fitting a 400-cubic-centimeter (cc) muffler on a 150-cc motorcycle—can cause excessive noise pollution. The city has established a graduated penalty system for violations:
- A P1,000 fine for the first offense.
- A P3,000 fine and possible license confiscation for the second offense.
- A P5,000 fine, potential imprisonment, and license confiscation for the third offense.
"We want builders to have peace and for people to truly rest at the right time. No one is exempted from this, even those with beautiful or rough voices," Mayor Chan added, underscoring the universal application of the rules.
This renewed push for order seeks to balance community enjoyment with the fundamental right of residents to a peaceful and quiet environment, particularly during late hours.
