Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Monday hailed Valenzuela City’s implementation of the Safer Cities Initiative, while signaling the possible expansion of the city’s anti-open muffler ordinance across Metro Manila to curb excessive motorcycle noise and strengthen public order.

Speaking during a press conference in Valenzuela City, Remulla said strong coordination among local governments, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and barangays remains key to making communities feel safer.

“There is nothing that a determined local government, combined with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the barangay system, cannot do if they put their minds to it,” he said.

As part of Valenzuela City’s Safer Cities campaign, Remulla joined Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian and Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lakanilao in leading the destruction of 287 confiscated open pipe mufflers found to have exceeded the city’s 100-decibel motorcycle noise limit.

The DILG chief said stricter enforcement of local ordinances forms part of broader efforts to restore discipline and order in public spaces.

Meanwhile, Remulla also defended the continued enforcement of ordinances prohibiting shirtlessness in public areas, saying the policy helps maintain basic civility and public safety.

“Pero, isipin mo ang buhay ng mga Pilipino lalo na ang kababaihan na makakaharap nila yung mga taong nag-iinuman, walang t-shirt. Nakakatakot iyon,” Remulla said.

He clarified that exemptions remain in place for construction workers, athletes, and others whose work or activities require flexibility under extreme weather conditions.

“Pag nagtatrabaho, pwede. Pero kung patambay-tambay ka lang o naglalakad ka lang sa lansangan, there should be a little price for civility,” he emphasized.

With the Safer Cities Initiative now expanding nationwide, the DILG said several local government units have begun strengthening the enforcement of existing public safety ordinances, contributing to safer communities, especially for women and vulnerable sectors.