German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer once wrote an essay on noise, expressing that “the most eminent intellects have always been strongly averse to any kind of disturbance, interruption, and distraction, and above everything to that violent interruption which is caused by noise.” This is also something that anti-noise advocates from the Philippines strongly believe in, as they seek to spread the message of the harms of noise pollution and what must be done about it.
The Anti-Noise Crusaders of the Philippines Inc. is a nonprofit organization recognized and registered by the SEC who have come together with the goal of sharing their “various negative and unfortunate experiences with noise pollution and discuss legal remedies and actions to solve the serious environmental problem, Noise Pollution.”
In a statement given to WhenInManila.com, the group shared their frustration over the lack of action being done about the complaints they have filed regarding excessive and unwanted sounds from traffic, construction sites, industrial facilities, and parties in residential areas.
“Noise pollution in the Philippines has become rampant [such as] the irresponsible use of videoke machines that are usually rented from unregulated videoke rental shops,” the statement began. “There is [also] the noise created by house parties that use videoke machines, irritating sound/music from bass, and loud laughter from people who are drinking. Usually, alleys and even roads are made into an extension of their house, and celebrations are held in the streets. Noise from animals (e.g., dogs, who are usually noisy due to their uncomfortable condition not attended to by irresponsible pet owners); from motor vehicles; loud open-air Zumba sessions; extremely loud church bells and services; basketball leagues in open-air basketball courts; and commercial establishments like bars, restaurants, resorts, and recreational courts in residential areas; fiestas; concerts; parties; etc. using huge speaker [are also noises that] Filipinos are suffering from.”
“We already brought our various complaints of noise pollution with supporting video evidence to the attention of our respective Barangay and LGUs. We have tried seeking redress from our LGU officials multiple times as stipulated under the Local Government Code of the Philippines Book III, Title One, Chapter 3, Sec. 389, but they seem to be negligent and, in a majority of the cases, are reported to be in support of the mentioned activities instead of performing their duties to regulate and abate these reported cases of noise pollution. Comforting measures have allowed us a few days or weeks, months at best, of peace before the reported source of noise pollution returns due to a lack of sustained action from our respective LGUs. As per our collective experience, the PNP is not fully aware of the existing laws on noise pollution. City and Barangay Councils and their tanods are neither didn’t aware of the same. Unfortunately, they will not act on their mandate to enforce the ANTI-NOISE POLLUTION laws despite filing formal complaints with sufficient evidence.”
The Anti-Noise Crusaders stressed that “noise pollution is a nationwide problem and is fast becoming a public health hazard affecting everyone.”
They hope that Filipino citizens and government officials would take the matter more seriously and be more consistent in reinforcing anti-noise regulations.
What to do if you are a victim of noise pollution?
“There are several steps you can take to address the issue,” shared the Anti-Noise Crusaders of the Philippines.
“1. Identify the source of the noise: Try to determine where the noise is coming from and what is causing it. This will help you to take appropriate action to address the issue.
2. Talk to the person responsible: If the noise is coming from a neighbor or a nearby business, try to talk to them and explain how the noise is affecting you. They may be willing to take steps to reduce the noise levels.
3. File a complaint with the authorities: If talking to the person responsible does not resolve the issue, you may need to file a complaint with the relevant authorities such as the police, local council, or environmental protection agency. They may be able to intervene and enforce noise regulations.
4. Take steps to reduce the noise: If the noise is affecting your sleep or work, you may need to take steps to reduce the noise levels yourself. This could include using earplugs, soundproofing your home, or moving to a quieter location.
5. Join a community group: Consider joining a community group that is concerned about noise pollution. They may be able to provide support and advocate for change at the local level.
Overall, it is important to take action to address noise pollution to protect your health and well-being, as well as that of others.”
What are your thoughts on this? Share them in the comments below.
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