Agoo town designates ‘quiet zones’

AGOO, La Union – Quiet please.

Councilors of this pilgrimage town recently passed an ordinance designating “quiet zones” preventing motorists from blowing their horns near churches, schools, hospitals and even residential areas.

“This (ordinance) will respect the solemnity of religious services and protect the rights of churchgoers, patients, and students while holding their classes. We should not disturb them,” said Mayor Sandra Eriguel told The STAR.

The municipal council led by Vice Mayor Jaime Boado Jr. passed the ordinance last Jan. 22. The provincial board approved it last week. 

Blowing of horns near schools is prohibited from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; public buildings, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; residential zones, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and hospitals, any time of the day, except in emergency cases.

Violators face a fine of P1,000 for every offense.

Pilgrims frequent the Agoo Basilica, which is located along the national highway fronting the Agoo Civic Center.