Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro defends Imee Marcos after Basilica dress code violation
Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro came to the defense of Sen. Imee Marcos, who reportedly violated the dress code during her visit to the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu.
On her Facebook page, Marcos shared pictures of herself visiting the church on Jan. 10 to offer prayers while wearing a red, sleeveless blouse, which some social media users pointed out was against the basilica’s dress code.
Some users also questioned why the senator was still allowed inside, despite ordinary citizens normally being barred from entering if they fail to comply with the dress code.
In a statement on her Facebook page, Baricuatro highlighted that while she "deeply respects" their church dress codes, she also believed in "showing hospitality to all who come to our city."
"We’re all learning, and sometimes missteps happen. As a government official who relies on protocol officers, I’ve seen how small misunderstandings can occur, and I choose understanding over judgment," she wrote.
"I’ve had the privilege to work with Senator Imee Marcos on food security, and we share a long-standing friendship and common advocacy. Our focus remains on improving lives for our people. She is an advocate for Cebu in the Senate," she added.
Baricuatro went on to implore her fellow Cebuanos to "not be quick to judge" and to "embody the Sinulog spirit—kindness and generosity to everyone."
"To our guests: you are welcome here, and we appreciate your respect for our traditions. Let's support each other [and] our [guests] during this festive season," she said.
She ended her statement by acknowledging that she forgot to warn Marcos not to wear a sleeveless outfit.
In the comments section, however, many still expressed displeasure over what they saw as preferential treatment for the senator.
"Apply the rule regardless of social status or rank," one user commented, to which Baricuatro replied, "I agree! But in the spirit of Sinulog, let’s be kind."
Another commented, "Just a word of sincere apology from the senator will suffice, then Cebuanos will understand the misstep and failure to follow protocol, but with silence and indifference from Sen. Imee's camp will only add insult to the Cebuanos who faithfully follow the church policy on dress code, not due to the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino de Cebu implementing rules but out of faith and devotion to Sr.Santo Nino."
Sharing Baricuatro's post on her own Facebook page, Marcos expressed her gratitude for the governor’s kind words and support.
"I humbly ask for a defense and more understanding of the Cebuanso on what happened," her translated post read.