CEBU Gov. Pamela Baricuatro defended Sen. Imee Marcos on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, following online criticism regarding a dress code violation during the senator’s visit to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño the previous day.
Netizens were quick to call out both Marcos and the Basilica leadership after photos surfaced of the senator entering the pilgrim center wearing a red sleeveless top — a violation of the church’s strictly implemented dress code.
In a Facebook post, Baricuatro called for understanding and hospitality toward guests visiting the province. “We’re all learning and sometimes missteps happen,” Baricuatro said, noting that government officials often rely on protocol officers and that misunderstandings can occur.
The governor confirmed she had met with Marcos earlier that day. She explained that while the senator mentioned she would be attending Sinulog activities, Baricuatro herself forgot to remind her to avoid sleeveless attire, calling the oversight her own “mistake.”
Highlighting their long-standing friendship, Baricuatro described Marcos as a dedicated advocate for Cebu in the Senate, particularly citing their collaborative work on food security initiatives. She urged Cebuanos to embody the Sinulog spirit of kindness rather than jumping to judgment, while reassuring visitors they are always welcome as long as local traditions are respected.
Senator Marcos later shared the governor’s post and issued a public apology.
“Mapaubsanon kong mangayo [og] dispensa ug dugang pagsabot sa mga Sugboanon sa nahitabo (I humbly ask for forgiveness and further understanding from the Cebuanos for what happened),” Marcos wrote. / JJL