Residents of a subdivision, claimed that they were often exposed to loud noises from the School, such as drums and bugles being played, teachers speaking through microphones and megaphones, and students running and shouting during games played at the multipurpose center. The residents claimed that these sounds, heard day and night, disturbed their peace at home. The School contended, that it has been in operations since 2012 with the necessary permits and clearances and that any noise comes only from regular classes.

The Regional Trial Court dismissed the residents’ complaint, deciding that they failed to prove they were harmed by the noise. Furthermore, the RTC held that the school doesn’t have any intention to cause harm to the residents and acted in good faith by taking steps to reduce the noise.

On appeal, the Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the residents saying that the noise was a nuisance that caused discomfort and annoyance to the residents. The Supreme Court overturned the Court of Appeal’s decision and ruled that academic noise, or sounds from legitimate school activities, is not a nuisance.

​

Nuisance includes any disturbance that interferes with a person, property or comfort and enjoyment of all citizens. The Supreme Court ruled that determination whether a noise is a nuisance requires more than just considering the location, environment and its effects on residents.

In addressing the issue, this Court considered a myriad of factors beyond simply the locality and character of the surroundings and the impact on the health and comfort of the residents.

Particularly, this Court likewise considered the (i) reliability of the noise pollution tests conducted, (ii) introduction by the defendant of measures or improvements to mitigate the noise, (iii) allowable noise levels, (iv) defendant's intention (or lack thereof) to cause the plaintiff harm,
(v) number of complaining witnesses, (vi) representativeness of the plaintiff, and (vii) actions of the plaintiff to alleviate his or her plight.

COUPLES FOR CHRIST (CFC) SCHOOL OF THE MORNING STAR, JUNEE LEE MARS H. NEBRADA, PSYCHE A. NEBRADA, AND ROSARIO H.
SALAZAR, PETITIONERS, VS. WIDELINE I. MALONDA et. al.
G.R. No. 278875 (Formerly UDK No. 18061)
November 26, 2025
J. Gaerlan