Tanudan eyes Anti-Topless Ordinance; Cultural practices, use of traditional attire exempted

‘We have to emphasize nga diay intention of being topless or half-naked ti kitan tayo— ta uray man naka-topless nu awan met intention na to show any indecency…’ – Tanudan Vice Mayor Antonio Basungit Jr.

Banagao, Tanudan, Kalinga – The Municipality of Tanudan is set to regulate toplessness, half-naked appearance, and indecent exposure in public places through a proposed ordinance aimed at promoting public decency while recognizing and respecting indigenous customs and cultural practices.

The proposed measure, titled “An Ordinance Prohibiting the Act of Being Topless or Half-Naked, and Indecent Exposure in Public Places within the Municipality of Tanudan, Kalinga, and Providing Penalties for Violations,” was discussed during a public hearing held on June 8 in Banagao.

According to local officials, the proposal originated from a request of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to address concerns related to public decency.

Following consultations and discussions, the Sangguniang Bayan expanded the measure to include provisions on indecent exposure and exemptions to ensure that legitimate cultural and practical circumstances would be respected.

During the hearing, Vice Mayor Antonio Basungit Jr. clarified that the proposed ordinance recognizes situations where being topless is culturally appropriate or necessary.

Exemptions include indigenous cultural practices protected under the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA), the wearing of traditional attire, authorized sports activities, medical emergencies, customary activities in rivers and streams, and activities conducted within private properties not open to public view.

“The request of the DILG ket to prohibit being topless or half-naked lang pero we included the ‘indecent exposure.’ Ngem adda exemptions para kadagiti instances nga kelangan tayo nga ag-topless, especially ta dioty ayan tayo—diay panagsuot tayo ti traditional attires tayo—especially for men, dagijay ti exemptions,” Basungit said.

Basungit emphasized that the proposed ordinance is not intended to penalize individuals merely for being shirtless, but rather to address acts that may be considered indecent or offensive in public places.

The vice-mayor explained that authorities would assess each case carefully and consider the intent behind the act before determining whether a violation has been committed.

“…ngem we have to emphasize nga diay intention of being topless or half-naked ti kitan tayo metlang, so we also have to assess, ta uray man piman naka-topless nu awan met intention na to show any indecency—agipakita ti private parts or anything, then haan nga counted,” he said.

Under the proposal, the ordinance will apply to public areas such as streets, parks, schools, government offices, markets, and transport terminals, including acts intentionally displayed to the public from visible locations.

Violators will receive a warning for the first offense, while repeat offenders may face fines ranging from ₱100 to ₱300. Minors will not face imprisonment, and any penalties imposed will be settled by their parents or guardians.

Once enacted, the ordinance is expected to help promote a more orderly and family-friendly environment in Tanudan while balancing public decency with respect for indigenous traditions and cultural identity.