Ifugao town bans going topless in public

LAMUT, Ifugao — Going topless or half-naked—upper or even lower garment—is now banned in an Ifugao town considered to be the gateway to the province's world-famous rice terraces.

 

The town of Lamut has approved its “anti-ussub” or anti-naked ordinance, citing that it must set an example of orderliness, propriety and decency.

 

“The Sangguniang Bayan recognizes the need to bring about an atmosphere of decency to uphold higher morals and standards among the residents of the municipality,” the ordinance stated.

 

Lamut, which is still humid and hot, is a lowland town before the foothills of Lagawe town. Some men in the said town still roam around in public places shirtless. 

 

The ordinance deems it unlawful for a half-naked or topless individual to drive any motorized or mechanical mode of transportation, walk or roam around a national highway, enter offices and attend social gatherings or programs, except during activities and traditional practices where the wearing of the native “wanes” or g-string and shirtless top is required.

 

Anyone caught shirtless or half-naked shall be penalized with P500 or eight hours community service for the first offense; P1,000 for the second offense; P1,500 for the third offense; and P2,500 or imprisonment of not more than 10 days upon the discretion of the court or both. — Artemio Dumlao