2 karaoke joints accused of violating Anti-Noise Law

CEBU, Philippines - A resident of Barangay Kasambagan requested the Cebu City government to take action against two music establishments in their barangay that allegedly caused so much noise even during the wee hours of the night.

Gabriel R. Quisumbing had already sent several complaints to the Cebu City Hall, the latest was addressed to the Cebu City Council.

In one of his letters to Mayor Michael Rama, Quisumbing claimed that the said karaoke joints are operating a video karaoke in an open area that would often last until morning.

“We had brought this problem to the attention of the barangay officials who promised us (that) they will tell the operators of (the) said establishments to reduce the sounds, especially at the hours when we are supposed to sleep,” said Quisumbing.

Quisumbing explained that they are not totally against the operation of videoke house in the area provided that the operators would install sound-proof devices so as not to disturb the people living nearby.

Kasambagan Barangay Captain Jose Lim also issued a certification that the two business establishments did not secure barangay business clearance when they applied for business permits from City Hall.

Lim supported the call of the officials of Barangay Tejero to require business permit applicants at the City Treasurer’s Office to secure a clearance from the barangay first.

The Cebu City Council has decided to refer the matter to the City Treasurer’s Office, Office of the Building Officials and to the City Legal Office.

The records show the matter was already discussed by the city lawyers. City legal officer Joseph Bernaldez requested a joint inspection with the CTO to verify the complaint.

The provisions of the Cebu City Anti-Noise Ordinance strictly prohibit the operation of Karaoke business in residential areas unless sound-reduction devices are installed. — (FREEMAN)