THE LOCAL government of Sogod in Southern Leyte has regulated the use of karaoke and videoke machines to help students focus on their distance learning.

Through Executive Order 48, the use of amplified singing devices in the locality will be strictly prohibited from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

However, karaoke and videoke use, with limited volume, will be allowed from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“Loud noises can distract pupils and students from concentrating on their online classes, school works, and other activities, now that every home in the country has been turned into an extension of schools,” Sogod acting Mayor Jose Ramil Golo said.

“Millions of learners are now undergoing blended learning as the Department of Education was forced to abandon learning in a classroom setting due to coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic,” Golo added.

Earlier this month, the Department of the Interior and Local Government urged local government units to pass ordinances that will ban the use of videoke, karaoke and playing loud music during online class hours.

Previously, the city government of Legazpi in Albay banned the use of karaoke and videoke machines.

In Metro Manila, the mayors of San Juan, Valenzuela, Manila and Navotas issued their own ordinances along with the corresponding fines per violation.