Going shirtless in Daanbantayan now prohibited

CEBU, Philippines — Going topless, shirtless, or half-naked in public places is now prohibited in Daanbantayan following the approval of a new municipal ordinance covering both men and women.

Municipal Ordinance No. 11-2026 applies to both men and women within the territorial jurisdiction of Daanbantayan, including those who appear without customary top apparel covering the upper half of the body.

The ordinance prohibits the act in public places such as public streets, plazas, government offices, and other areas considered accessible to the public.

It was approved on third and final reading by the Sangguniang Bayan during its regular session on September 4, based on Resolution No. 644-2026.

The measure, filed by Sangguniang Bayan Member Jose Maria C. Gastardo, was unanimously approved by the body.

The ordinance states that it was enacted to regulate conduct in public places, maintain public order, prevent disturbances, and promote community welfare.

It cited Section 16 of the Local Government Code of 1991, which provides local government units with powers necessary and appropriate for efficient and effective governance and for the promotion of the general welfare.

The measure also cited the Safer Cities Initiative of the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Philippine National Police, which aims to make communities safer by lowering crime rates and restoring public order.

Under Section 3 of the ordinance, “Topless (Shirtless) or Half-Naked” refers to “the act of appearing bare-breasted or without any customary top apparel covering the upper half of the body.”

The prohibition, however, does not cover all circumstances where a person may be without customary upper-body clothing.

The ordinance exempts cultural practices, religious rituals, infants and breastfeeding mothers, as well as activities at beaches, resorts, private properties, and sporting events.

Specific work environments are also exempted, including construction workers or laborers working under extreme heat.

Violators face escalating penalties depending on the number of offenses.

A first offense carries a warning or community service, while a second offense is punishable by a P1,000 fine.

For the third and succeeding offenses, violators may face a P2,000 fine or imprisonment, as provided under the ordinance.

The Philippine National Police, barangay tanods, and municipal enforcement teams will be responsible for enforcing the measure.

It also provides a “no contest” option allowing an apprehended individual who does not wish to contest the violation to voluntarily pay the administrative fine to the Municipal Treasurer within 24 hours from the time of apprehension.

The ordinance will take effect 15 days after its posting at the municipal hall bulletin board and at least two other conspicuous public places within Daanbantayan. — /HM (FREEMAN)