The proper time and place

Davao is set to pass an ordinance forbidding karaoke and other sound systems from 9 in the evening until 6 in the morning of the next day. This is because of numerous complaints of karaoke singing and music being played straight through the dead of night, depriving many of a good night's rest. They should. But this is a problem not only in Davao, but throughout the whole country.

There is in fact a Nuisance Law where the singing of karaoke and playing loud music outdoors is supposed to be forbidden from 10pm until 6 the next day. The problem is enforcement, especially if those who just love to torment everyone with their horrendous vocals are friends of the local barangay captain, or the police themselves. I remember a friend constantly complaining of their neighbor's singing and music played loudly while on a drinking session. My friend would complain to the local precinct about the noise. The police would just knock on the neighbor's door and tell them of the complaint, but as soon as they left, the singing and the music goes on, sometimes until 7 the next morning!

Not everyone can just sing and listen to music the whole night. There are those who still have to go to school or work, so a much needed rest is a right, not a privilege. This is actually the basis of the Nuisance Law. Why these "singers" insist on letting everyone hear what they have to sing or play is beyond me. It is narcissism at its worst. There is a right place and time for this kind of activity. If they must sing their hearts out or listen to music all night long, then they should do it within the confines of closed area, not in public.

The existing Nuisance Law needs teeth. Or probably better enforcers. Perhaps if a complaint is raised about karaoke or some party's loud music, then it is the barangay captain who is punished for it. That way, he will make sure that the law is obeyed to the letter. It is time to put these inconsiderate people in their place. Those actively participating in nation building - the students and the workers - must be given their rest. Filipinos are known for their vocal talents. Something the world is already witnessing. But there is a proper time and place for such talents, the real ones that is, and not those who just love listening to the sound of their own horrible voices.

Voices that would wake up and irritate the dead.