Jonvic Remulla Meets Man Fined for Being Shirtless, Admits Mistake in Policy Enforcement
JONVIC REMULLA – The Interior Secretary personally visited a man in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday after he was ticketed for being shirtless while mixing cement, an incident that sparked public attention and debate over the enforcement of the government’s “Safer Cities Initiative.”
During the visit in Barangay Addition Hills, Remulla personally apologized to the man, identified as Jhony Lanquino, and admitted that the situation was caused by unclear instructions regarding the policy’s implementation. He explained that while the initiative was meant to improve public safety and order, he failed to properly clarify its guidelines to authorities on the ground, which led to confusion and strict enforcement.
Remulla acknowledged that many workers naturally remove their shirts due to hot weather and said the rules should have been applied with better judgment. He also mentioned that some police officers were very eager in implementing the policy, but he reminded them to be more careful and avoid rushing in enforcing rules without properly understanding the situation.
The Interior Secretary earlier promised that he would personally meet the man to apologize and correct the issue. During the visit, he also returned the ₱500 fine that had been collected and provided financial assistance to help the family continue building their home.
The man’s wife accepted the apology but expressed that while they were not against the policy, authorities should have issued a warning first before giving a ticket. She explained that their concern was mainly about how the rule was enforced, not the rule itself.
Remulla responded that the strict enforcement was not meant to target anyone personally and said that officers were simply too eager in carrying out their duties. He emphasized that the goal of the initiative is to reduce crime and improve safety in the community, noting that the area had reportedly become more peaceful, with fewer disturbances and less drinking in public spaces.
He also clarified that workers are still allowed to do their jobs, but individuals loitering in public areas without purpose may be restricted under the policy. Remulla ended by stressing that the program is intended for the benefit of all residents and is aimed at maintaining order and safety in local communities.
Related Post: Jonvic Remulla Apologizes Over the Ticketing of a Shirtless Man Mixing Cement