The local government of Antipolo has restricted the use of videoke machines and other sound-producing devices that could disturb students during their online classes.
Under City Ordinance 202-964, the use of videoke machines and sound-producing devices are only allowed from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
"Ito ay upang maiwasan ang pag-iingay at mabawasan ang distraction habang nagkaklase ang mga estudyante sa kanilang mga tahanan, at makapagpahinga naman nang tahimik sa gabi ang lahat lalo na ang mga magulang na galing sa trabaho at paghahanap-buhay (This is to avoid noise and reduce distraction while students are in class in their homes, and to allow everyone to rest quietly at night especially parents who came from work)," Mayor Andrea Ynares wrote on Wednesday (October 14).
Violators of the ordinance will be fined P1,000 for the first offense, P2,000 for the second offense, and P5,000 or imprisonment for six months for the third offense.
Ynares urged barangay officials and police officers to strictly implement the measure.
"Inaasahan po ang buong suporta at kooperasyon ng ating mga kababayan (We are expecting everyone’s support and cooperation)," the mayor added.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government earlier urged local government units to enact ordinances prohibiting videoke and other loud, distracting noises during online class schedules as millions of students adjust to the blended learning system as a measure against COVID-19 pandemic.