Solon files bill to prohibit dress codes for citizens doing simple trasactions with gov’t
A lawmaker has introduced a House bill to ban unnecessary dress codes for civilians who make government transactions, claiming it discriminates against poor and indigenous communities.
If passed, House Bill No. 11078, filed by Akbayan Rep. Percival Cendaña, will prohibit government offices from imposing unnecessary dress codes on citizens doing simple transactions.
The bill, which Cendaña called an “open-door policy,” seeks to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment in government offices.
In his explanatory note, the progressive lawmaker noted instances of ordinary folk such as farmers, fishermen, urban poor and indigenous people who were either barred or had difficulty accessing government services due to their failure to follow a dress code in government offices.
“Unnecessary prescriptions in attire in government offices for citizens are hereby prohibited. Discrimination based on clothing has no place in public offices, the establishment and operations of which all taxpayers paid for. The principles of equality and nondiscrimination must be observed and adhered to most especially by government institutions,” the note read.
In a separate statement, Cendaña explained that the bill seeks to make “government frontline services to be truly accessible.”
“Not everyone can afford outfit checks. We want government offices to welcome everyone no matter your socioeconomic status,” he added.
