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Advocates Philippines
Women's Groups File Complaint Against Bong Suntay Over Sexist Remark On Anne Curtis
Photo courtesy from Jean Enriquez
Women’s rights advocates marched to the Office of the Ombudsman on March 6, 2026, to formally file a complaint against Quezon City 4th District Rep. Jesus Manuel “Bong” Suntay over comments they say were sexist and inappropriate toward actress and host Anne Curtis during a House committee hearing.
The complaint, lodged by groups including World March of Women–Pilipinas and Sentro Women, cites both administrative and criminal violations under the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710), and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials (RA 6713).
What Sparked the Complaint
The controversy began during a House Committee on Justice hearing on March 3, 2026, which was discussing impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte. Rep. Suntay made an analogy involving seeing Curtis at a Shangri‑La Hotel, saying he felt “desire” and imagining “what could happen.”
The comments drew immediate criticism. Members of the House voted to strike Suntay’s remarks from the official record and referred the matter to the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges for investigation.
Advocates Highlight the Broader Issue
Women’s groups say the remarks go beyond a single comment, reflecting a culture that tolerates gender-based harassment and discrimination, especially when made by public officials.
“It is critical that women … unify and hold the elite and the patriarchs in power accountable for sexual violence,” said Nicey Coronacion of Sentro Women.
As part of their protest on March 6, the groups performed symbolic rituals and a mock “jailing” of perpetrators outside the Ombudsman’s office.
Official Reactions
The House Committee on Women and Gender Equality, chaired by Laguna Rep. Ann Matibag, condemned Suntay’s remarks and called for gender sensitivity in Congress.
Several lawmakers, including Gabriela Party-list Rep. Sarah Elago, voiced support for ethics and administrative proceedings against him.
The Commission on Human Rights noted that such comments could constitute public acts of sexual objectification.
In response, Suntay apologized, saying he did not intend malice and described his analogy as “fictitious,” though he acknowledged that it was inappropriate.
What Happens Next
The Ombudsman will review the complaint to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to pursue charges. At the same time, the House ethics investigation could result in sanctions or other disciplinary action.
Why This Matters
The case highlights ongoing debates in the Philippines over gender respect in public life and accountability for officials whose words may normalize sexist attitudes. Women’s groups view it as a test of how seriously institutions uphold laws like the Safe Spaces Act and challenge entrenched norms of gender and power.
The complaint, lodged by groups including World March of Women–Pilipinas and Sentro Women, cites both administrative and criminal violations under the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710), and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials (RA 6713).
What Sparked the Complaint
The controversy began during a House Committee on Justice hearing on March 3, 2026, which was discussing impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte. Rep. Suntay made an analogy involving seeing Curtis at a Shangri‑La Hotel, saying he felt “desire” and imagining “what could happen.”
The comments drew immediate criticism. Members of the House voted to strike Suntay’s remarks from the official record and referred the matter to the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges for investigation.
Advocates Highlight the Broader Issue
Women’s groups say the remarks go beyond a single comment, reflecting a culture that tolerates gender-based harassment and discrimination, especially when made by public officials.
“It is critical that women … unify and hold the elite and the patriarchs in power accountable for sexual violence,” said Nicey Coronacion of Sentro Women.
As part of their protest on March 6, the groups performed symbolic rituals and a mock “jailing” of perpetrators outside the Ombudsman’s office.
Official Reactions
The House Committee on Women and Gender Equality, chaired by Laguna Rep. Ann Matibag, condemned Suntay’s remarks and called for gender sensitivity in Congress.
Several lawmakers, including Gabriela Party-list Rep. Sarah Elago, voiced support for ethics and administrative proceedings against him.
The Commission on Human Rights noted that such comments could constitute public acts of sexual objectification.
In response, Suntay apologized, saying he did not intend malice and described his analogy as “fictitious,” though he acknowledged that it was inappropriate.
What Happens Next
The Ombudsman will review the complaint to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to pursue charges. At the same time, the House ethics investigation could result in sanctions or other disciplinary action.
Why This Matters
The case highlights ongoing debates in the Philippines over gender respect in public life and accountability for officials whose words may normalize sexist attitudes. Women’s groups view it as a test of how seriously institutions uphold laws like the Safe Spaces Act and challenge entrenched norms of gender and power.
Mar 6, 2026
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