Dress modestly, Dubai Filipino group urges

The Dubai branch of Sangguniang Masang Pilipino International (Council of the Filipino Masses) has handed out 5,000 leaflets to Filipinos in Satwa, Karama and Deira, and spoken to people about do's and don'ts during the Holy Month.

DUBAI // When Ibrahim Robel Beltran asked a scantily clad woman to cover up on the first day of Ramadan, it did not go down well.

The woman was walking with her husband near Lamcy Plaza, wearing a miniskirt and low-cut sleeveless top. Mr Beltran, the administrator of the Dubai branch of Sangguniang Masang Pilipino International (Council of the Filipino Masses), was taking part in the council's annual campaign to remind people about Ramadan rules.

"We discreetly told her to dress more appropriately," he said, "but her husband got angry at us."

Ram Flores, the group's consultant, got much the same reaction in Satwa when he asked a group of women not to wear very short shorts, miniskirts, spaghetti strap tops, and sleeveless blouses.

"They got really offended," he said. "Their male companions asked why we were singling them out."

Mr Flores insists he had no intention to humiliate anyone.

Council members have handed out 5,000 leaflets to Filipinos in Satwa, Karama and Deira, and spoken to people about do's and don'ts during the Holy Month. Although some people were upset, others were pleased to receive the advice, said Mr Flores.

Roy Silvano, the group's founder, had an easier time handing out flyers in the Karama, Dubai and Deira districts.

On the second day of Ramadan, he saw a woman in her late 40s walking along the street in Karama in very short shorts. He gave her a leaflet and advised her against skimpy clothing.

"She thanked us and quickly hailed a taxi to go home and change," Mr Silvano said.

At St Mary's church on Oud Metha road, Mr Silvano and his wife gave leaflets to the worshippers.

"We saw them reading them and keeping them in their bags," he said. "Many said they were not aware about the hefty fines and appreciated our efforts."

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight are forbidden, and modesty in public is expected.

Anyone consuming food, beverages and other items faces a month in jail or fine of up to Dh2,000.

Entertainment activities, celebrations or parties are also banned during the Holy Month.