CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES — The Land Transportation Office in Central Visayas (LTO-7) will intensify its crackdown on motor vehicles fitted with illegally modified mufflers starting today, February 23, 2026, in line with a nationwide directive to curb noise pollution on public roads.
The stepped-up enforcement follows Memorandum MVL-2026-025 issued by Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao, which reiterates the strict prohibition against unauthorized muffler modifications on all motor vehicles and motorcycles.
LTO-7 said its law enforcement personnel have been directed to apprehend vehicles equipped with non-compliant mufflers, particularly those that emit excessively loud and disruptive noise.
The agency also cautioned motorists against relying on misinformation circulating on social media, including claims by vloggers and online groups that downplay or misinterpret existing regulations.
“Motorists are advised to verify information through official government sources and not be misled by individuals or pages that spread disinformation for online engagement,” LTO-7 said in a statement.
The directive reinforces Section 34 of Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, which prohibits cutting or disconnecting vehicle mufflers. It also cites Section 5.2.7 of Department Order No. 2010-32, which specifically bans muffler modifications.
All regional directors, assistant regional directors, law enforcement units, operations division chiefs, and district and extension offices nationwide have been ordered to strictly enforce the provisions during vehicle registration and roadside inspections.
The memorandum further warned that LTO personnel who fail to comply with the directive may face administrative sanctions.
LTO-7 urged vehicle owners to ensure their mufflers conform to standard specifications to avoid penalties as stricter enforcement takes effect.
| Written by Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/FPL
