Nearly 700 individuals were cited within one week for violating the city’s “half-naked” ordinance, according to data released by the Davao City Police Office (DCPO).
Authorities recorded a total of 696 individuals issued citation tickets from April 12 to April 18 as police intensified enforcement of the ordinance across the city.
DCPO spokesperson Capt. Hazel Caballero said the ordinance is not new and has long been implemented in Davao City. She noted that most violations occur at night, particularly in areas near residential communities and public plazas.
Since Jan. 1, 2026, the DCPO has recorded 5,075 cases of violations related to the half-naked ordinance. Police said this remains among the most commonly violated local ordinances in the city, next to traffic and curfew regulations.
Separate police data showed additional violations recorded during the same seven-day period. Authorities documented 2,634 traffic violations, 354 minors apprehended for curfew violations, 245 individuals cited for violating the anti-smoking ordinance, and 146 drivers flagged for exceeding speed limits.
Caballero said police may consider certain situations involving individuals found outside their homes, particularly if they remain within private premises. However, she emphasized that strict enforcement is applied once individuals are already in public places.
Police continue to remind residents to follow city ordinances, especially those related to public conduct and safety. Authorities also said enforcement operations will remain ongoing as part of efforts to maintain order in public areas and residential communities throughout Davao City.
