Governor meets bikini shows organizers

CEBU, Philippines – Organizers of bikini shows, particularly in Bantayan Island, yesterday went to the Provincial Capitol to meet with Governor Gwendolyn Garcia regarding the ban on vulgar bikini shows.

Garcia explained to the event organizers that she just wanted to uphold the public morale of the women especially during this Lenten season. She added “it’s better to have cultural shows than having shows wherein performers were seen almost naked.”

The governor vowed she will not stop her drive against those who violate the general welfare especially the moral values.

In response, the organizers promised Garcia that they will change the format of their shows.

This also served as an answer to the call of the priests, particularly in Bantayan Island, to stop these indecent shows.

This Holy Week, Garcia also tasked the local police to monitor the events in Bantayan, which also happens to be celebrating its annual fiesta.

The priests have earlier called the attention of the provincial government officials on the alleged indecent shows where women are allegedly portrayed as “sex symbols.”

This happened when the governor attended the burial of a police official in that area last week

Right after, Garcia issued a stern warning against the organizers as well as the sponsors of the bikini shows to refrain from having indecent shows or they will be fined.

Garcia released Executive Order No. 08 calling all the authorities to strictly ban such shows that would degrade the morality of the women.

“It is good to open this issue and for them to understand and to share the true Cebuano culture,” the governor added.

Further, she warns the Department of Education to scrutinize well the programs that are being held in the schools. There should be no vulgar costumes for students who are performing, she stressed.

Meanwhile, in observation of the Lenten Season, Garcia said yesterday that she will be having a Visita Iglesia today at the southern part of Cebu, starting from Carcar City down to Sibonga then round south that will end in Barili.

Together with the town officials, the governor will pray a mystery in every church, saying “I will commit myself again to a total unconditional service to the province and to the people.”

Yesterday, the Provincial Capitol implemented a half-day work to give chance to employees to home early especially those who still have to go to the provinces. —Johanna T. Natavio and Mark Z. Gantuangco (THE FREEMAN)