Advisers

Merrill Faye M. Rubis, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Noise pollution continues to pose significant threats to public health, environmental order, and community well-being in urban areas. In Barangay Commonwealth, Quezon City, Sangguniang Panglungsod–275–Series 2020, also known as the Prohibition on the Excessive and Disturbing Noise, was enacted to regulate motorcycle loud pipes, residential noise such as videoke, and vehicular disturbances. Despite its legal mandate, enforcement challenges may hinder its full effectiveness. This study assessed the implementation of the ordinance and identified operational gaps affecting enforcement. The study employed a Descriptive-Evaluative Research Design using a mixed-methods approach. Purposive sampling was used to select 50 respondents composed of 10 motorcycle riders, 8 videoke owners, and 32 bystanders in Barangay Commonwealth. Data were gathered through a validated survey questionnaire divided into demographic profiling and assessment of implementation effectiveness. Statistical tools included Frequency and Percentage to describe respondent profiles, Weighted Mean to measure the level of implementation, and One-Way ANOVA to test for significant differences in assessment among groups. Findings revealed that the ordinance is generally “Strongly Implemented.” Motorcycle Loud Pipes obtained the highest composite mean (WM = 3.49), followed by Community/Residential Noise (WM = 3.26). Vehicular Noise received a lower composite mean (WM = 2.83), interpreted as “Implemented.” The major challenges identified were loud motorcycles and nighttime hangouts (94%), resident non-compliance (92%), and the absence of calibrated decibel meters, which resulted in subjective enforcement practices. ANOVA results indicated no significant differences in assessment when grouped according to respondent category, leading to the acceptance of the null hypothesis. Although the ordinance is operational and positively perceived, enforcement remains constrained by resource limitations and inconsistent penalization procedures. Visible patrols strengthen public confidence; however, the lack of technical equipment weakens objective apprehension, particularly for vehicular noise. The study recommends the procurement of calibrated decibel meters and stricter confiscation protocols for repeat offenders. Strengthening evidence-based enforcement will promote measurable compliance and enhance community peace and order.

Keywords

noise pollution, sangguniang panglungsod–275–series 2020, ordinance implementation, law enforcement effectiveness, motorcycle loud pipes, residential noise, vehicular noise regulation