The Manila Police District (MPD) has confirmed on Saturday, April 11, that it has temporarily halted the strict enforcement of a city ordinance penalizing individuals for going shirtless in public, following backlash over its perceived “anti-poor” impact.

In a directive dated April 11, 2026, the MPD instructed personnel involved in Oplan Galugad and other anti-criminality operations to refrain from issuing penalties related to the ordinance.

Instead, authorities have been directed to issue warnings and conduct information drives promoting proper public decorum and adherence to community standards.

The MPD said the move is part of efforts to promote a more humane approach to policing while maintaining public order.

Despite the adjustment, police clarified that enforcement of other city ordinances remains in place, including those covering curfew violations and the prohibition of drinking in public places.