By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Akbayan Representative Perci Cendaña has filed a bill that would prevent government offices offering frontline services from enforcing strict dress codes on citizens conducting simple transactions.
Cendaña stated that such dress codes should not be required unless the prescribed attire or footwear is essential to the transaction.
He introduced House Bill 11078, or the “Bawal Judgmental” Bill, aiming to enhance access for marginalized communities seeking basic services from government offices.
According to Cendaña, strict dress codes unrelated to the frontline services being provided often end up discriminating against poorer and indigenous communities.
“Sadly, the strict dress code policy leads to marginalized communities being turned away. We want to remove the judgment around dress or attire, especially when it’s unrelated to the service,” Cendaña said.
“We want government frontline services to be truly accessible. Not everyone can afford an ‘outfit check.’ We want government offices to welcome everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status,” he added.
ia/mnm