Remulla Takes Responsibility for Shirtless Apprehension Confusion, Announces Policy Review
Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla has publicly apologized for the controversial enforcement of ordinances against men going shirtless in public, acknowledging shortcomings in the implementation of the Safer Cities initiative. Despite ongoing public backlash, Remulla confirmed that arrests and ticket citations will continue, but with significantly clearer guidelines to prevent misinterpretation.
Secretary Admits Fault in Implementation, Vows Clarification
During a press conference on Monday, April 13, 2026, Remulla expressed regret for what he described as his own failures in providing adequate instructions for the Safer Cities program. The initiative mandates strict enforcement of local ordinances, including the apprehension of individuals without shirts in public spaces, along with curfew enforcement for minors, limits on videoke sessions, and bans on street drinking.
"It was my fault that I did not give clearer instructions on how to do the Safer Cities Initiative. I fell short there. My only desire, my sole intention, was to quiet the streets," Remulla stated. He added, "However, due to the lack of my explanation, anyone without a T-shirt was simply apprehended. That was wrong. We made a mistake there, and I take full responsibility. I will make amends and ensure we discuss this to clarify it."
Apology Follows Complaint from Mandaluyong Resident
The apology was prompted by a complaint from a Mandaluyong resident who was apprehended for being topless while mixing cement in front of his own house. Remulla emphasized that such situations should have been considered with more discretion, noting that individuals engaged in labor deserve leniency. He announced plans to visit the complainant personally to apologize for the confusion.
Remulla contrasted this with groups loitering shirtless on street corners, arguing for civility. "Like those who are working, they should be given consideration. But I'm sure all of you—or you have friends—when you go home, you see groups just loitering without shirts. There is a very small price to pay for civility. A sando nowadays costs less than 50 pesos, so at least wear one," he remarked.
Safer Cities Enforcement Data Reveals Scope of Apprehensions
As of April 12, 2026, official data shows that 6,708 individuals have been apprehended for various violations of local ordinances under the Safer Cities initiative. The breakdown includes:
- 1,900 arrests for drinking and smoking in public places
- 262 apprehensions for roaming the streets without shirts
- 68 citations for using karaoke beyond allowed times
Additional Philippine National Police (PNP) data indicates that 557 minors were apprehended for violating curfew hours, while 3,921 were cited for other infractions. Of the total arrested individuals, consequences were distributed as follows:
- 2,584 individuals were fined
- 181 individuals were formally charged
- Nearly 4,000 others were warned and subsequently released
Remulla has ordered a comprehensive review of the policy and guidelines governing the Safer Cities initiative to ensure future enforcement is more precise and context-sensitive, balancing public order with individual circumstances.
