There is nothing humorous about degrading women’s dignity or imposing misogynistic remarks in an attempt to gain attention.
Earlier this month, a viral video of Pasig congressional candidate Christian Sia, who faces multiple show-cause orders from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), drew flak among netizens after he made a sexually charged joke targeting menstruating single mothers during a campaign rally.
In the viral video clip, Sia was heard saying: “Minsan sa isang taon, ang mga solo parent na babae na nireregla pa – Nay, malinaw, nireregla pa – at nalulungkot, minsan sa isang taon, puwedeng sumiping ho sa akin.”
The audacity to intentionally make a joke that objectifies women, especially in the context of a sexual act, cannot be dismissed as a mere campaign tactic or attempt at humor. Edited or not, these words came from Sia, and his behavior speaks volumes, especially from someone seeking to lead and represent the public.
Since time immemorial, women have long been struggling for genuine freedom, recognition, and human rights. In the 1930s, it was only then that women were allowed to vote after days and nights of proactive mobilization struggling for women’s suffrage. This marked a significant turning point for women to have a voice in political affairs and participate more actively in shaping the nation’s future.
Despite such recognition, women remain victims of misogyny and sexism. Worse, such remarks have come from the highest official of the land in the persona of Former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is known for his repeated sexist, misogynistic, and degrading remarks towards women
In 2016, journalist Mariz Umali was interrupted in her interview and was catcalled by Duterte. Umali called the act “improper,” while her husband, Raffy Tima, condemned it as disrespectful to women. But these only fell on deaf ears, with the House Speaker even defending Duterte for making “jokes” and “compliments”.
Now, Duterte is under custody at the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity, marking a hard-won victory for thousands of victims and families demanding justice, especially women.
Meanwhile, case in point, Sia clearly displayed a grotesque mockery during his campaign rally that is seemingly unfit for someone seeking public office. Making such an act, despite the long history of women’s struggle for their rights, should not be tolerated from any candidate aspiring for a congressional position.
Ironically, Sia thought he could save face by blaming the uploader of the video for not posting the full version, insisting that the complete footage would show the audience’s reaction to clarify that his intention was merely to capture attention.
Well, it did capture attention, just not the kind he hoped for. And the impact was an absolute disgrace. What Sia did clearly violated women’s rights.
On April 8, the women’s alliance Gabriela through Gabriela Women’s Party Hon. Arlene Brosas filed the “Bawal Bastos sa Eleksyon” bill seeking to make misogynistic and discriminatory remarks grounds for disqualification of candidates in local and national elections.
The said bill aims to address various incidents of misogynistic behavior in electoral activities, including Sia’s lewd comments and even pro-Duterte blogger and Manila council candidate Mocha Uson’s campaign jingle flagged by the COMELEC with “sexually suggestive” content.
All these, according to Gabriela, reflect a systemic failure that must be immediately addressed.
Every woman deserves dignity, respect, and equality. They should never be reduced to mere punchlines in a campaign, nor used as props to gain applause.
On the other hand, leadership requires integrity. One that differentiates true, nationalistic leaders from traditional or “trapo” politicians who pander to marginalized sectors during campaign season, only to reveal not just poor taste but a lack of character.
We must no longer be swayed by promises that are unbacked by real actions and substance. More so, vigilance and critical awareness are necessary as the nation’s future rests in our choices and decisions.
So pause and ask yourself: How can you put your trust in someone who makes jokes at the expense of women and marginalized groups, and expect them to uphold their interests?
