On Sat (9 Feb), photos of a woman clad in an eye-catching skimpy thin tank top were posted on social media.
The woman was seen queuing at an ATM in Somerset MRT station. The photos went viral online very quickly.
But some netizens were quick to criticise her for wearing an “obscene” outfit in public.
Today (12 Feb), a woman confirmed with Stomp that she was the woman in the photos.
She identifies herself as Ashley Garcia, a freelance model from the Philippines. It’s not known if she is in Singapore to take on modelling jobs.
Ms Garcia said, “I was not aware that somebody took a photo of me (I don’t personally know his purpose).”
“I apologise if I [have] offended any culture [with] this outfit, but, please understand that I [did] not have any obscene or malicious intention by wearing it. I am sorry if you think that this was ‘indecent exposure’ but it was not my intention,” she added.
“To those people who are already hitting me below the belt and criticising me, I respect you. You are already telling things which are too personal [and] that is already outside of what you see in the picture.”
Ms Garcia also clarified that she had been wearing shorts and nipple tape at the time of the incident.
Work pass exemption for certain activities in Singapore
According to MOM, a foreigner can get work pass exemption for certain work activities in Singapore, but he or she needs to notify MOM.
For example, a foreign model involving in location filming leading to TV or movie production, is not required to apply for a work pass.
Also if he or she is modelling in fashion shows, no work pass is needed.
However, if a foreigner performs at a venue with a Public Entertainment Licence, he or she will need a work permit. Such venues include bars, discotheques, lounges and night clubs, MOM said.
