Public disturbance is a crime

Dear PAO,

The male employees who are working at a construction company are renting the apartment adjacent to our house. They drink liquor and sing videoke on high volume almost every night, so much so that my wife and I do not get enough sleep.

I think it would be less stressful if they do it inside their house. But they usually gather outside their gate and drink along the «bangketa.» And as if that is not exasperating enough, they get even louder once they become intoxicated.

Last night, they were cussing at every pedestrian who walked along our street and even broke glass bottles, which made it very difficult for us to get some sleep. Is there a case that can be filed against them?

Another neighbor of ours also said that there were times during the day that they would also do the same, if not more serious, kinds of disturbances. Is there a case for that as well?

Vinzon

Dear Vinzon,

While occasional drinking sprees and merriment are normally seen and have become quite acceptable in our society, every person who engages in such leisure activities should nevertheless be mindful of his or her surroundings, especially when these activities take place in public places or areas that are commonly utilized by the public. Anyone who causes a disturbance or scandal in public places, whether intoxicated or not, may be charged with a criminal complaint for Alarms and Scandals. As provided for under Article 155 of Act 3815, otherwise known as the «Revised Penal Code,» as amended by Section 19 of Republic Act 10951:

«Art. 155. Alarms and scandals.— The penalty of arresto menor or a fine not exceeding Forty thousand pesos (P40,000) shall be imposed upon:

»1. Any person who, within any town or public place, shall discharge any firearm, rocket, firecracker, or other explosives calculated to cause alarm or danger;

«2. Any person who shall instigate or take an active part in any charvari or other disorderly meeting offensive to another or prejudicial to public tranquility;

»3. Any person who, while wandering about at night or while engaged in any other nocturnal amusements, shall disturb the public peace; or

«4. Any person who, while intoxicated or otherwise, shall cause any disturbance