ILOILO City — The Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral has begun enforcing a dress code for all attendees of liturgical celebrations, such as Mass.
Signage detailing the required attire has been strategically placed at the cathedral’s entrance to ensure visibility for all churchgoers.
According to the signage, the following attire is deemed appropriate:
* for women – collared blouses, shirts, or long sleeves; skirts or dresses that fall below the knee; unfitted jeans or slacks
* for men – t-shirts or polo shirts; long sleeves; pair of pants or slacks
Reverend Father Angelo Colada, director of the Archdiocese of Jaro’s Social Communication Office, said the signage serves as a “gentle” reminder for worshippers to wear proper attire when attending church.
However, Father Colada clarified that non-compliance with the dress code would not result in denial of entry.
“There are no sanctions if one does not adhere to the dress code. It’s merely a reminder,” Father Colada explained to Panay News.
The initiative has received some negative feedback from netizens following its announcement, but Father Colada emphasized that compliance is encouraged, not mandatory.
He acknowledged that not everyone have “Sunday best” attire due to financial constraints or lack of awareness about the dress code, particularly tourists or those from other areas.
Father Colada reassured that clothing does not need to be new, just appropriate and presentable.
“It’s more about instilling a sense of propriety among churchgoers rather than imposing strict rules,” he added.
When asked if other churches under the Archdiocese of Jaro might adopt similar policies, Father Colada said no official order has been issued by Archbishop Jose Romeo Lazo of Jaro as of yet, but it remains a possibility in the coming weeks.
In a previous interview, Father Colada noted that the dress code aims to discourage overly casual or revealing clothing that could distract other worshippers.
“The goal is to maintain decorum and respect within the sacred space,” he said./PN
