STRICT BASILICA DRESS CODE: A bane for churchgoers, a boon for vendors

Local

WHILE many churchgoers have voiced their dismay over the newly enforced dress code at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu, some local vendors, particularly candle sellers, are seeing a silver lining.

The stricter dress code, which bars visitors from entering the church wearing short shorts, ripped jeans, and other prohibited clothing items, has caused some to be turned away.

However, this has resulted in a boost in sales for vendors, called "candle ladies," stationed outside the Basilica.

Irish Olbedencia, a 33-year-old candle vendor from T. Padilla, shared her experience with MyTV Cebu.

According to Olbedencia, her candle sales have increased since the strict enforcement of the new rules.

"Before, I used to sell around 50 candles a day, but now I can sell double that amount, or about 100 pieces," she said in Cebuano.

Each candle is sold for P10, leading to a noticeable improvement in her daily earnings.

Similarly, 55-year-old Sari Rosalita from Minglanilla expressed approval of the dress code, although she emphasized that it was not just about the profits.

Rosalita revealed that while her sales have risen to about 200 pieces of candles a day, she still believes it is better if people can attend mass inside.

"Yes, I am earning more now, but I still feel it is more important for people to be able to enter the church and worship," she said.

The vendors' increased sales highlight an unintended consequence of the policy, benefiting those who operate outside the Basilica, even as some churchgoers feel frustrated by the new rules.

The dress code, which took effect on October 1, has sparked discussions among the public.

It was introduced to maintain respect and solemnity within the church, with visitors now required to wear appropriate attire such as collared shirts, knee-length dresses, and slacks.

Despite a month-long awareness campaign that included social media reminders and announcements after every mass, many visitors have been surprised by the strict enforcement.

Church officials have stood by the decision, insisting the policy is essential for preserving the sanctity of the Basilica.

Ismael Buante, the head of security, said the rules are applied, regardless of race or nationality, and encouraged visitors to comply with the guidelines.(MyTVCebu)