Baguio City Passes ‘Silent Night’ Ordinance: No Excessive Noise After 10 PM

Baguio City residents can look forward to a quiet and peaceful night’s sleep every night. This comes after the local government passed into law the ‘Silent Night’ ordinance banning any “excessive, unnecessary or unusually loud noise” within residential areas and public streets from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

According to a Manila Bulletin article, the ‘Silent Night’ ordinance mainly covers audio devices, which includes the popular videokes and karaokes.

What The ‘Silent Night’ Ordinance Covers

The ordinance, which was authored by Councilor Edgar Avila, assigns barangay officials to implement it, with the assistance of Baguio City Police. Affected residents may report violators to their respective barangay officials.

Audio devices stated in the law include karaokes, videokes, amplifiers and musical instruments. Excessive noise, on the other hand is defined as “operating, playing or permitting the operation or playing of any radio, CD player, TV set, amplified musical instruments, videoke and karaoke system or other sound-producing device” with such volume that disturbs the quiet in any residence or with such volume that is louder than necessary.

The ordinance also regulates loud noise and music around schools, places of worship and hospitals, which should be heard within 200 meters of these places.

A verbal warning will be given to violators in order to bring down the volume. If they do not heed the warning, they will be fined P1,000 or be imprisoned for up to 6 months or both for the first offense. The second offense carries a P3,000 fine, while a third offense, P5,000.

Residents Deserve A Good Night’s Rest

According to Councilor Avila, the ordinance was passed because of a growing community concern about noisy and rowdy parties that not only disturb the peace but also prevents residents from getting a good night’s rest.

Residents who wish to use videokes or karaokes in their homes may be allowed to use them until 12 midnight if they secure a permit from the barangay at least 5 days before. They also have to use them at ‘acceptable’ noise levels.