The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said it is planning a nationwide expansion of its campaign against motorcycles using open pipes and illegally modified mufflers, citing concerns over public safety, public order, and noise pollution.

PNP chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) and all Police Regional Offices (PROs) to strictly and uniformly enforce existing laws and local ordinances governing illegal vehicle modifications.

Nartatez said the move aims to promote road discipline while avoiding selective enforcement across different regions.

“We are looking at a broader and more coordinated implementation across the country. Ang layunin po natin ay hindi manghuli agad. We want to encourage compliance and help riders understand that vehicle modifications are regulated by law,” he said.

The planned nationwide push follows intensified operations by the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) during the New Year’s festivities, when authorities cracked down on motorcycles with open pipes and modified mufflers to curb excessive noise and maintain public order in residential areas.

In Taguig City, local police, together with barangay security forces, conducted “Oplan Sita” in Barangay Pinagsama.

The operation led to the apprehension of 15 motorcycle riders for various city ordinance violations, including five who were cited for illegal exhaust systems. The modified mufflers were confiscated.

Nartatez stressed that the issue of open pipes goes beyond traffic violations, as excessive noise affects communities, particularly near homes, hospitals, and schools.

“We view open pipes not just as a traffic issue but as a public safety and public order concern. Ang sobrang ingay ay nakakaistorbo sa komunidad lalo na sa residential areas, hospitals, at schools,” he said.

The PNP chief also clarified that the campaign is not meant to target motorcycle riders, many of whom rely on their vehicles for daily transportation and livelihood.

“We understand the sentiments of motorcycle riders. Hindi po ito anti-rider policy. Ang gusto lang po natin ay safe, legal, at responsible riding,” Nartatez said.

The PNP said further coordination with local government units and continued information campaigns will accompany enforcement efforts as the nationwide implementation moves forward.