Rules are rules 

When stepping into the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, visitors are reminded that reverence begins at the entrance gate. Wearing whatever you want in this place cannot be applied, because clothing signals respect for a sacred space that has stood for centuries. 

During normal days, ordinary devotees were denied entry for attire deemed inappropriate–ripped jeans, sleeveless tops, or above-the-knee skirts. Yet politicians and public figures like Senator Imee Marcos and Jasmine ‘Daday’ Chan have reportedly been allowed to enter without any consequences from the church, only the backlash they’ve got from the public. And this stirred up discussions about fairness in the Basilica’s enforcement of its dress code.

The problem is not the existence of the dress code itself, but the inequality in how it is applied, which undermines the integrity of one of the country’s most established and revered churches.

The Basilica is a major religious institution where rules exist to maintain reverence, not to exclude or control. Most visitors understand that the attire guidelines are part of participating respectfully in worship. The dress code itself is not oppressive; it is a practice meant to honor the sacred.

However, selective enforcement is evident. Ordinary people are often turned away, while the ones with powers are given exceptions. This creates visible inequality, turning guidelines for respect into a symbol of privilege. 

Consider those individuals who cannot afford “proper attire” as defined by the Basilica. Rigidly enforcing the rules without consideration excludes those who are faced with social and economic barriers, which contradicts the Church’s value of compassion and inclusion. Implementation must balance reverence with equity.

However, let’s not draw a narrative that ‘poor people’ are unable to dress appropriately. Often, they are the ones who adhere to and respect standards the most. While ignorance can sometimes play a role, the real issue arises when arrogance makes a scene. 

In the case of Marcos and Chan, their choices are clearly conscious decisions. They know they were visiting a Church, yet they chose to dress that way anyway. Despite having plenty of options in their wardrobes, they failed to choose a suitable one. 

Furthermore, it was the security personnel who failed to enforce the rules, rather than the long-held dress code being oppressive. People must understand how to dress appropriately for the occasion. In the same sense, you wouldn’t expect to see a party-goer wearing a ‘Sunday Best’ dress at a nightclub.

Some may argue that bending the rules for anyone–powerful or not–weakens tradition. The issue is not bending the rules for the powerful, but it is to ensure that all visitors, regardless of status, are treated equally and consistently. And that genuine economic disadvantage is accounted for compassionately.

Tradition, culture, and fairness can be preserved only if the Basilica’s dress code is applied equally. Inconsistencies, especially when the powerful are given a pass, erode trust and make the sacred space feel exclusionary to people rather than welcoming.

Church authorities should reaffirm the importance of their dress code, but also implement it fairly. Making reasonable considerations for those unable to meet attire standards would make more sense while ensuring that rules apply equally to everyone without favoritism. 

Reverence is preserved not only through rules, but through equitable treatment of all who enter the Basilica’s door.