The Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) Manila has faced online criticism after implementing a revised dress code that bans cross-dressing, long hair for male students, and certain clothing items like shorts, crop tops, sleeveless tops, and slippers.
The policy changes, announced by the TUP Manila University Student Government (USG) on August 19, were based on a memorandum from the Office of Student Affairs.
The revised dress code has sparked controversy, with many arguing that it is discriminatory and violates Ordinance 8695, the Manila LGBTQI Protection Ordinance of 2020. The ordinance, signed by former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity expression (SOGIE).
Palanca-award-winning writer and poet Jerry Gracio criticized the policy on X, stating that it violates the Manila LGBTQI Protection Ordinance. He questioned why TUP, a state university, was moving backward on SOGIE issues, especially when Catholic universities like Ateneo de Manila show respect for LGBTQI+ individuals.
Online users also pointed out that TUP is a state university and should allow students to express themselves freely, especially considering that they are funded by taxpayer money. Some criticized the inconsistency in the enforcement of the dress code, noting that students were previously allowed to have long hair and colored hair but are now subject to stricter rules.
The TUP Manila USG has acknowledged the concerns raised by students and has stated that it is discussing the matter with the concerned offices. The student government emphasized that the announcement was solely for information dissemination and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the policies.
The TUP USG’s Students’ Rights and Welfare Committee has discussed the proposal to ease the current hair and dress policy with the university’s Vice President of Academic Affairs (VPAA). The VPAA suggested that feedback from professors and officials be included in the TUP Dugong Bughaw Survey to ensure a well-rounded perspective on the issue.
The committee agreed that gathering additional feedback from faculty and staff would be beneficial, even though the original survey included a diverse group of respondents.
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