The country’s women’s party welcomed the disqualification petition against a sexist congressional candidate it said refuses to sincerely apologize to those he offended on at least two public occasions.
Gabriela Women’s Party (GWP) said the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has finally responded to the clamor of women, especially solo parents, gravely offended by Pasig congressional candidate Christian “Ian” Sia Atty.
“Instead of issuing a sincere apology, Sia showed no remorse and even doubled down, hiding behind ‘freedom of speech’ in a desperate attempt to brush off the serious harm caused by his remarks,” said Gabriela Partylist Representative and senatorial candidate Arlene Brosas.
Sia said in a campaign sortie that lonely single mothers who are still menstruating may sleep with him, earning him condemnations from various groups, including GWP.
When Sia tried defending himself, he asked a female assistant to come onstage and referred to her figure to show he does not discriminate against women, earning more condemnations.
When told to explain by the poll body why he should not be disqualified, Sia claimed freedom of speech as justification, leading to the Comelec Task Force Safeguarding Against Fear and Exclusion (SAFE) to file the disqualification petition.
The petition said Sia violated Comelec Resolution 11116 – Anti-Discrimination and Fair Campaigning Guidelines – that may lead to his disqualification from the May 12 elections or his prevention from being proclaimed winner.
Brosas commended the Comelec for its “decisive action,” adding the move must set a precedent against “abusive, demeaning, and discriminatory rhetoric against women during the campaign period.”
Meanwhile, Gabriela Women’s Party First Nominee Sarah Elago said they expect more cases to follow against other candidates who have likewise made sexist and misogynistic statements.
“Other candidates who disrespect women must be held to the same standard. Let this serve as a clear warning that sexism has no place in public office,” Elago said. # (Raymund B. Villanueva)