After several men were detained for going shirtless in public under the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s “Safer Cities” drive, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla expressed regret and took responsibility following public backlash over how local ordinances were enforced.
The operations, carried out by local authorities citing public order and decency rules, drew criticism online, with many questioning whether arrest and detention were a proportionate response to what was widely viewed as a minor attire violation.
Remulla acknowledged the backlash and said enforcement of such rules must be reasonable and not excessive, stressing that while local government units have the authority to regulate public conduct, implementation should not result in blanket or unnecessary arrests.
The DILG chief said law enforcers must exercise discretion and apply common sense when handling minor violations, adding that not all infractions require custodial action and that responses should be calibrated to the situation on the ground.
He also signaled that the Safer Cities initiative and related enforcement practices would be reviewed to ensure rules are applied properly and do not lead to abuse, with the department expected to work with local governments to clarify guidelines and reinforce standards in implementation.
The issue has prompted wider discussion on the balance between maintaining public order and protecting individual rights, particularly in how local regulations and “public decency” measures are used against everyday behavior like clothing.
