Senator Imee Marcos found herself at the center of online criticism after photos from her visit to the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu during the Sinulog festivities sparked debate over church dress code rules.
Marcos visited the basilica on Saturday, as part of activities tied to the annual Sinulog celebration. Photos later shared on her official social media account showed her wearing a sleeveless red blouse — an outfit that many netizens pointed out does not comply with the basilica’s guidelines on proper attire.
Several commenters questioned whether church rules were being applied consistently, noting that ordinary worshippers have previously been turned away for wearing clothing deemed inappropriate under the same guidelines.
The incident quickly widened into a broader discussion online, with netizens debating fairness and equal treatment, and whether public officials are sometimes given leeway that regular devotees do not enjoy — especially during major religious events like Sinulog.
Amid the growing backlash, the basilica released a reminder urging the faithful to observe proper attire at all times when entering the church.