BAGUIO CITY — The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) apprehended 124 violators during three days of renewed crackdown against loud and modified motorcycle mufflers here from June 12 to June 14.
According to the BCPO, 44 motorists were cited for using loud mufflers while 80 were collared for unauthorized muffler modifications.
The operation was in compliance with the June 3 order of Mayor Benjamin Magalong for renewed efforts to address excessive motorcycle noise and to ensure compliance with traffic and vehicle regulations following public complaints.
To strengthen the enforcement, BCPO director Col. Ruel Tagel said the BCPO also made other initiatives to sustain the enforcement.
He said 43 personnel were deputized by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) allowing them to implement relevant laws and regulations more effectively.
Prior to the operation, authorities conducted an information campaign through social media advisories and installation of tarpaulins in various parts of the city to inform motorists about the campaign.
BCPO also coordinated with the LTO, motorcycle shop owners and motorcycle rider groups through consultations aimed at promoting awareness and encouraging voluntary compliance with vehicle standards.
Tagel said enforcement efforts will continue as part of the city’s commitment to maintaining peace, order and a more conducive environment for residents and visitors.
Under Republic Act 4136, the use of modified mufflers or “any alteration, removal or replacement of a vehicle’s original exhaust system that results in excessive, loud or disturbing noise, including but not limited to: open pipes/straight pipes, cut-outs or bypass systems and aftermarket exhausts that increase noise levels” is prohibited.
LTO apprehensions under said law carry a standard penalty of P5,000.