Cebu City ordinance penalizes half-naked people

Local

ROAMING around Cebu City shirtless? You could be fined P5,000 under a proposed ordinance.

Going around shirtless or wearing see-through clothing in public could soon cost Cebu City residents more than just side glances, but thousands of pesos in fines.

This follows the referral of the proposed “Public Decency and Attire Ordinance of Cebu City” to the Cebu City Council’s committee on laws, ordinances, and styling for further review, after it was formally introduced during the Council’s regular session this week.

The ordinance, authored by Councilor Sisinio Andales, seeks to penalize individuals who appear half-naked or indecently exposed in public areas, citing the need to foster respect, discipline, and propriety in common spaces.

The proposal outlines a set of escalating sanctions, from a warning on first offense to a P5,000 fine and possible behavioral counseling for repeated violations.

The measure was prompted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government in Cebu City, which, during a July 7 executive briefing, asked city lawmakers to enact legislation promoting public decency.

“Public decency is essential to maintaining a respectful environment conducive to family, tourism, and civic engagement,” the proposed ordinance reads.

It defines “half-naked” as exposing the upper torso, wearing transparent clothing that reveals intimate parts, or walking in undergarments.

If enacted, the ban would apply to all publicly accessible spaces, such as streets, malls, parks, and government premises.

Private residences that are not visible to the public are exempt from the ban. The same applies to situations involving cultural or religious events, theatrical performances, medical necessity, and legitimate athletic or recreational activities.

What violators face

Should the ordinance be approved, the following penalties would be imposed:

1st offense: Verbal warning and decency orientation

2nd offense: P1,000 fine

3rd offense: P3,000 fine and/or community service

4th and succeeding offenses: P5,000 fine and possible referral to behavioral counseling

Non-payment of fines or non-compliance with sanctions may result in legal charges, to be pursued by the City Legal Office.

Who will enforce it?

Enforcement would be handled by the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), the Cebu City Anti-Indecency Board, and barangay tanods. Legal matters or complaints related to the ordinance would fall under the jurisdiction of the City Legal Office.

Before it becomes law, the ordinance must pass committee review and gain final Council approval. If enacted, implementing rules and regulations (IRR) will be crafted to guide enforcement and interpretation.(TGP)