CEBU CITY – Starting October 1, the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu (BMSN) will implement a mandatory dress code for all visitors, prohibiting entry to those who do not comply.
According to Philippines News Agency, the new policy, announced through a public advisory on Sunday, is intended to preserve the sanctity and reverence of the worship space. The friars emphasized that the initiative seeks to ensure that all visitors, whether pilgrims, Mass-goers, or tourists, show appropriate respect for the sacred site. “Effective October 1, 2024, the Basilica will no longer provide shawls for all visitors. To maintain the solemnity of our worship space, those arriving in attire deemed unsuitable for worship or who attempt to wear shawls rented outside the Basilica will be denied entry,” the advisory stated.
Additionally, the friars have issued guidelines particularly targeting weekend visits, advising that those not attending Eucharistic celebrations refrain from visiting during these times. Tourists are especially discouraged from visiting on Fridays and Sundays unless they intend to participate in the liturgical services.
The implementation of this dress code aligns with practices observed at other religious sites both locally and internationally, aiming to standardize the decorum expected in such sacred spaces.