Cartoon by: Yanai De Leon
Published by: Kyla Shane Recullo
Date Published: March 12, 2026
Time Published: 4:18 PM
Society has long tolerated derogatory statements directed at women. It is about time people recognize the line between a genuine compliment and a misogynistic remark disguised as one.
Recently, Bong Suntay, a representative from Quezon City, faced criticism from fellow lawmakers after making lewd remarks about actress Anne Curtis during a congressional hearing on impeachment complaints against Sara Duterte.
While arguing that Duterte could not be accused of sedition simply for attending an event where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was criticized, Suntay claimed that individuals should not be penalized for unenforceable statements or mere thoughts. To illustrate his point, however, he recounted an encounter with Curtis and described imagining inappropriate scenarios, concluding that he could not be charged for what he had imagined.
What was intended to support a legal argument instead became an alarming and inappropriate comparison. A hearing that was meant to remain serious and formal was momentarily overshadowed by remarks that many considered offensive and unnecessary.
The backlash that followed was immediate and widespread. The criticism stemmed not only from the comment itself but also from the fact that it came from a public official entrusted with representing the people. As a congressman holding influence in Quezon City, Suntay carries the responsibility to uphold professionalism and respect in public discourse. Instead, the remark appeared to reinforce the very attitudes that many continue to challenge.
Public frustration intensified because the incident occurred during Women’s Month. For many observers, the statement was not merely offensive to Anne Curtis but also reflective of a broader pattern of remarks that belittle women. The situation was further underscored by the fact that Suntay himself is a husband and father to daughters, further underscored the disappointment felt by many.
Shortly after the incident, Suntay issued an apology for his remarks about Curtis but maintained that his analogy during the impeachment hearing carried no malice. For critics, however, the apology appeared insufficient and lacking sincerity.
Prominent journalist Karen Davila also addressed the issue, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and sensitivity in how women are discussed in public spaces. As she firmly pointed out, inappropriate thoughts should remain private rather than be voiced in official proceedings.
Curtis’s sister, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, likewise spoke out, calling for an end to a culture that treats women as consumable spectacle or objects of commentary rather than as individuals with power, intellect, and autonomy. Her statement resonated with many who believe that such remarks contribute to the normalization of attitudes that reduce women to mere subjects of fantasy or public scrutiny.
Women are not defined by someone else’s imagination. Women are not objects of sexual desire. They are individuals deserving of respect and dignity, just as anyone else. Incidents like this remind us that dismissing offensive remarks as harmless or accidental only perpetuates the problem.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros also pointed out that under the Safe Spaces Act, gender-based harassment, including sexual comments and suggestions, can be penalized. As a lawmaker, Suntay is expected not only to understand such legislation but also to uphold its principles. For this reason, many argue that the matter should not be treated lightly and that accountability is necessary.
As the country observes Women’s Month, this incident serves as a reminder that advancing women’s dignity and ensuring basic respect remain ongoing efforts. Progress requires vigilance, continued dialogue, and a willingness to challenge behavior that undermines equality.
Ultimately, the issue is not about how women look, what they wear, or how they present themselves. Rather, it concerns the attitudes that allow disrespectful, malicious remarks to be normalized.
Public officials are expected to demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and respect—particularly in formal institutions where public trust is at stake. When officials attempt to curry favor with those in power or advance their arguments through inappropriate rhetoric, they risk losing the objectivity and credibility expected of them.
Distinguishing between a sincere compliment and a degrading remark should not be difficult. Respect, after all, is not complicated. If we truly wish to create safer and more respectful environments for our daughters, nieces, and future leaders, accountability must begin with those elected to represent us.
References:
INQUIRER.net. (2026, March 3). Suntay hit for lewd remarks over Anne Curtis at impeachment hearing. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2189898/fwd-suntay-hit-for-lewd-remarks-over-anne-curtis-at-impeachment-hearing
Manila Bulletin. (2026, March 4). Karen Davila, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, and Gabbi Garcia call out Rep. Bong Suntay after his controversial remarks on Anne Curtis spark backlash. https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/04/karen-davila-jasmine-curtis-and-gabbi-garcia-call-out-rep-bong-suntay-after-his-controversial-remarks-on-anne-curtis-spark-backlash
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