The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has also condemned the alleged sexist remarks made by Cong. Bong Suntay about an actress during a hearing at the House of Representatives.
According to the CHR, such behavior has no place in official proceedings, where public trust, professionalism, and accountability should be upheld.
The commission also expressed concern that the incident occurred at the start of Women’s Month, a time meant to strengthen recognition of the dignity, rights, and contributions of women.
The CHR stressed that Suntay’s statement about the actress should not be treated as a “harmless” figure of speech, as it reflects sexual objectification.
While the agency acknowledged the decision to remove the remark from the official record, it said this does not erase the harm or risks it may have caused.
The CHR also emphasized that although the lawmaker has issued an apology and clarified that there was no malicious intent, the concerns raised by several groups and women’s rights advocates should not be dismissed.
(PHOTO COURTESY: Cong. Bong Suntay | Facebook)
