Actress Jasmine Curtis-Smith issued a statement after Quezon City Representative Bong Suntay drew backlash over remarks he made during a House Committee on Justice hearing on March 3 involving her sister, Anne Curtis.
During the hearing, the lawmaker recounted that he felt a surge of “desire” upon seeing Anne at a mall, clarifying that it remained only in his imagination. He added that the actress is very beautiful.
In a social media post, Jasmine stressed that the issue goes beyond a single female celebrity and reflects a broader concern about how women are viewed in society.
She said the remark highlights a culture in which women are treated as objects of imagination and commentary.
Jasmine emphasized that elected officials have a responsibility to uphold respect and elevate the level of public discourse, and that such statements should not be dismissed as simple “compliments.”
Meanwhile, broadcaster Karen Davila also expressed her sentiments before signing off from her program, calling the lawmaker’s remarks misogynistic, insulting, and disrespectful to women—especially as the country observes Women’s Month in March.
Davila asserted that the matter should not be taken as a joke and reminded the public that congressmen are paid by taxpayers, and therefore must properly fulfill their duties.
The committee later approved a motion to strike the lawmaker’s remarks from the official records.
(PHOTO COURTESY: Jasmine Curtis-Smith | Facebook)
